I just heard the Declaration of Independence read on NPR. Gives me chills every time.

I'm riding out to my sister's. 9 miles across the west side of Chicago, not a fun ride, but a ride none-the-less! I was going to take the Marin--easier to transport watermelon chunks in the panniers than on my back. But decided to take the Bianchi--my nephew will think it's cool, and impressing the 7 year old is what it's all about in my world! The Timbuk 2 carries everything on my back, and if it's watermelon soup when I get there...that will be a learning opportunity, right?!

We'll watch their small-town middle America parade, and then head back to the house for chow. Looks like perfect weather for the 4th of July.

Have a great Independence Day, my sister Americans!