Independence Day

Independence Day has never been one of my favorite holidays. For one thing, there are no gifts exchanged which is what ruined it for me as a kid. Now, though, I see that as a benefit. I've never been a "summer person" in that I hate, hate, hate being hot and fireworks have always scared me. I'm not a big fan of the noise although they are pretty. Prettier and fancier each year, as a matter of fact. I will say, though, that I love this country and celebrating our Independence is a great thing - even when politics and the state of affairs in Washington get you down - this is the best country in which to live! I also like the colors of the 4th. Red, White & Blue are comforting colors to this American girl.

Since my parents moved to their retirement home (meaning the home they've retired to...not as in "official" retirement home or "old folks home"), we've been going there for the 4th of July. They live 2 or 3 houses from the bridge in that little commuunity from which the fireworks are fired and their front lawn is THE place to watch the fireworks, just as my grandmother's lawn was THE place to watch the Memorial Day parade when I was a child.

So I suggested to Dad that he should cook some hot dogs to which he suggested that I bring the hot dogs and so I did. We also brought the Water Dogs and Moxie, who'd never been there before, was a bit loud. She was not interested in hanging out while we ate.

After the eating and the cleaning, we made our way to the front lawn and watched people park up and down the street and walk to find their positions. We, the dogs and people on the lawn, waited.

We brought Dock last year to the 'works and if I remember correctly, he barked at the first one or two but then curled up in Jeff's lap and rode out the whole show. This year, with the Baby Dog, that was not going to happen. At the first blast, Dock went crazy and Moxie started shaking so Jeff ran them into the house where he sat on the floor with them the whole time. They were fine once inside and Jeff probably enjoyed being with the dogs more than the people, so all was well.

Here are pictures of Dad & M2, Mom & Dad, and M1 (with her straight teeth) plus the dogs. I'd have included a picture of Jeff but he has a way of making faces when the camera is pointed his way, so none were flattering.

The moral of the story is that dogs shouldn't go to the fireworks. Next year, we'll leave them home where they'll miss us, but be less traumatized.