I traveled with family to New York City during July 4th weekend not just to see the fireworks, but to celebrate the life of my father, who passed away from this Earth on July 4th, 2006. I watch the fireworks, now, both to celebrate my freedom as an American citizen and to honor my father. 2009 was a special treat, because I had never before seen the fireworks in New York City. As this was to be the first year Macy’s would launch them over the Hudson River, it was especially imperative that 2009 was to be the year I finally saw them. Armed with my trusty Nikon D80, I watched one of the most brilliant fireworks shows I’ve ever seen.My father would have been 54 this year. I hope these photos show how much I miss him.