New American

Here's our new American, my daughter-in-law. Along with 195 other immigrants she got her certificate yesterday in a ceremony in Salt Lake City, Utah.

She was born near Saigon, now Ho Chi Minh City. She is the oldest of 10 children. All of her siblings, and her parents, are still living in Vietnam.

With her new citizenship she has taken a new American name, Julia.

I feel very proud of her and for her. In many ways, and considering the way most Americans take their citizenship for granted--even abuse it--I think she deserves it more than some who have it by birthright. She is a hardworking person who has contributed much to society since she's lived in our country.

Besides, she and my son have made a couple of really great children!
Congratulations to Julia and all of the other 195 people who attained their citizenship yesterday, our new fellow Americans.

Ciao for now.