They may take our lives, but they'll never take...Our Independence Day!

Yep.

I feel like Matthew and I spend a lot of time being bummed about not living in Texas. Yes, we’re still sure we’ll move back someday (despite the fact that I found the cutest house I want to buy a few miles down the road), but often times we don’t give this place enough credit. Sure, everyone we know and love is 1,200 miles away which sucks. Big time. People here are nice and friendly, but it’s just not the same, and every one I know who’s moved to a new place says they’ve have a really difficult time making friends. However, there are pluses to living here.

For instance, this morning I got my grocery shopping done at 7 a.m. (I know, I’m an old crazy person… it’s effing Saturday) and as I’m loading groceries into The Fit, I looked over and see the most beautiful snow-capped mountains, a plethora of blues and greys overhead. And this is in the Wal*Mart parking lot. When I drove home, I could see rushing water elapsing through the bridge’s railings, and best of all, when the Fourth of July came around, we got to be super patriotic. I got to see Mount Rushmore for the first time.

Our first stop was Deadwood for some burgers and beer. I also blew $5 in 5 seconds at a casino before Matthew wisely dragged me back to the car.

It’s a neat little town with a cool vibe. Plus, Sam Adam’s Summer Ale is my faaaavorite.

Next, we drove around the black hills for a while before finally arriving at the KOA for some camping, marshmallow roasting, and hiking. I didn’t have my camera with me, but we took a 10-mile (okay, 9.4…) hike to Harney Peak, the highest point in South Dakota, and while it was exhausting, it was really quite beautiful once we fiiiiinally made it to the top.

(source: BackPackers.com)

Then, we thanked George for our freedom.

 And saw the site one-too-many alien movies has ruined for me.

Before finally returning home to where the buffalo roam.