The Fourth of July is one of those holidays that always sneaks up on me. I know it’s coming, I see on the calendar that it’s coming. I even contemplate planning a short trip out of town because it’s coming. And then it’s here, and somehow I’m shellshocked by the idea, standing on my porch waving the tiny U.S. flag I’ve had for years.
Wanna know something? It’s not that bad.
Sometimes low-key is the way to go. So gather a small sampling of your favorite people, and go down this checklist. Fourth of July fun for all!
1. Put doughnut holes on skewers with blueberries and strawberries. Patriotic breakfast in a pinch.
2. Check the Internet and find a free community parade/celebration to attend, preferably one in the morning to avoid being crowded out. Stay until you are about to overdose on John Philip Sousa. Bring the aforementioned tiny flag. Or, if you’re feeling ambitious, make a parade wand.
3. Then … go home and make a flag pizza with the family. Seems like a fun and easy thing to prepare with kids.
4. Watch the movie that was made for today. “We’re going to live on! We’re going to survive!”
5. Snack on some red, white and blue salsa while they defeat the aliens using a computer virus (*snort*).
6. Why not continue into the afternoon with a double feature, beating the heat? Your choice: The Patriot or Forrest Gump.
7. Make something fun with the kids. It doesn’t get easier than painting patriotic rocks.
8. Get the evening mood going by cranking up some classic rock. This playlist would be perfect with a holiday cocktail. The Boston Tea Party sounds amazing.
9. Don your best patriotic togs and grab the sparklers. Head outside. If you can shoot off some mild firecrackers where you live, do so right in your back yard (or beach or safe spot). If you can’t, stake out a spot far away from the hustle and bustle. You know the spot I’m talking about. The one where you can still see the fireworks. Maybe even better than you would up close. If you don’t know what I’m talking about, ask around. Someone you know knows someone who knows this spot. Trust me.
10. End your evening with hot dogs and ice cream sandwiches and a Sam Adams summer ale. Promptly go into food coma/pass out.
Before you go to bed, don’t forget to say your thanks to the men/women who fought for our rights. We may not always agree with any every decision made in this country of ours, but it is ours, and we would do well to remember to vote come Election Day.
Happy Birthday, U.S. of A.!
