As many of you know, I have been working abroad in the UK for the past month. And although our countries are very similar, we both speak some form of English and our nation's colors are red, white, and blue, there are many large differences between our society and theirs. These changes were not always present though because, and I will do my best to avoid retelling your junior year history class, we used to be a part of the UK. Shocking I know.

Ever since the US adopted the Declaration of Independence in 1776, we have been a free nation from the British, which is why when celebrating the 4th last week, me and my fellow American interns weren't sure what to do. Where in London can you get a bratwurst as good as the one your dad makes in the backyard? Will there be any sort of fireworks? After all that is a staple in American Fourth of July festivities. Or should we keep our voices down as not to be seen as rebels while walking home from work?

I know for me, my home sickness really hit hard last Wednesday as my friends and I attended a networking event in a high-rise above the beautiful London skyline, and all I could think of is that the view would be perfect lit up in red white and blue. And although the event had 'American potato salad,' it was nothing like the one my mom makes.

My friends and I were still in good spirits though, and because we were experiencing this home sick feeling together, we were able to make our own little Independence Day celebration by going to our local pub and reminiscing about our favorite 4th festivities we enjoyed back home. And I wouldn't have wanted to celebrate the fourth in the UK any other way.