This past Independence Day, Sunshine and I rolled with the Filipino American Association of Stafford Virginia in the Dale City parade, helping celebrate America’s big 250th birthday. It was hot enough to fry an egg on the asphalt, but the energy from the great crowd more than made up for it.
We had a blast waving, smiling, and soaking up the patriotic vibes. The FAASV float looked sharp with its “Happy 4th of July” banner, flags flying, and pure community spirit on full display. Sunshine looked radiant in her sparkling blue gown and “Mrs. FAASV – USA” sash, while I rocked the stars-and-stripes shirt and tried not to melt. One participant got a mild case of heat exhaustion and even joked about wanting a photo from the ambulance — thankfully no one was seriously hurt, and the rest of us just laughed it off and kept the good times rolling.
Moments like these remind me why we show up: to celebrate freedom, support our local Filipino community, and make memories with the people who matter. Huge thanks to the Filipino American Association of Stafford Virginia for putting on such a fun, proud showing. If you’re in the area, check them out — they’re a fantastic group keeping culture and camaraderie alive.
Nothing beats a hot summer day spent waving flags with my smoking-hot wife and a whole lot of friends. Happy 250th, America!
Disclaimer: Full transparency — Grok helped me draft this post. Don’t want anyone thinking I write this good on my own!
