Happy Independence Day

Being an American in Britain on the 4th of July is a very strange thing. Celebrating Independence Day in the land of our former colonial masters is a little like celebrating the anniversary of a divorce in your ex-in-laws' beach house. You can still have a good time, but you're always aware.

What can Brits do to ease the awkwardness and ensure a Happy Fourth?

• no snarky comments about impertinent colonists
• no jibes about how we've made a mess of our independence - especially over the last eight years or so
• no general anti-Americanism (yes, I know it's hard)
• sparklers should be on sale at every corner store
• bring us a brownie
• a paid day off work would be nice

and last but not least....

• tax free tea all day