No seriously, you can be honest

And today ... we went to a BBQ for the "4th of July." On the 2nd. Don't know why it was a bit early. Who knows.

So the US Marines, the guys who protect the US Embassy here in Bern, throw a ball every year. Costs TONS of money - because it's Switzerland. In order to fund the party they host events throughout the year and raise money via donations and raffles and such. This evening we had our first BBQ in what seems like a million years. They bring in all the traditional stuff you'd expect and charge hardly anything for it: Samual Adams, budweiser, Corona, Sunkist, A&W Root Beer, hamburgers, hot dogs, baked beans, potato salad.

Delicious.

And where is it hosted? At a veritable mansion as far as Swiss houses are concerned. You'd think the US ambassador lives there. Nope. The Marines do - 5 of them. This must be like hitting the jackpot for those guys. 5 Marines, huge house, back yard, bar, HUGE TV, pool, BBQ, pool table. Awesome.

The BBQ brought in all sorts of people from government "political analysts" to folks like us - all Americans who happen to be living in Bern. Of course N. met a little buddy his age. They ran around and splashed in the sad looking kiddie pool.

Speaking of political analysts ... we met one there this evening. "How do you like Switzerland," she asks Alison, "it's ok ... you can be honest, I understand."