4th of July - I Salute You
The 4th of July is my favorite holiday. Barbeques, fireworks, and family, there's truly nothing better.
My 4th of July is like any common Midwest American's. It involves buying as many fireworks as I can afford, lighting off firecrackers, smoke bombs, and cracklers leading up to 4th of July, then on the big day hold a barbecue full of sweet corn, hamburgers, hot dogs, baked potatoes, and baked beans.
Being from the Midwest, barbecues are an important part to any major holiday outside of Christmas and Easter.
The night before, I'd make a pint of homemade ice cream. The great thing about homemade ice cream is that I can make it whatever I want. Vanilla? Easy. Chocolate? Just add some coco powder. Strawberry? Make the vanilla ice cream and add in some strawberries. Chocolate chip? Sure thing! Throw in the chips as it is mixing.
Nonetheless, with all these delicious foods it still isn't my favorite part of the holiday. Of course, 4th of July night is. Lighting off all the big fireworks I can and staring up at the sky in amazement at the pure beauty of it is by far the grandest part of the holiday.
I've tried watching fireworks on television or going to the nearest fireworks display in the city, but it isn't the same as lighting off my own. It is a sense of achievement--a thrill. Maybe it sounds silly to those of you who haven't grown up doing such a thing, but to me and my family, this is the greatest moment of Independence Day. Actually, to me, it is the greatest moment of the year.
Watching fireworks in the city isn't the same. Sure there can be a barbecue before you leave and you can even bring ice cream with you and eat while you watch, but doing it in your own backyard is much more comfortable, at least, for me. Sitting around laughing, watching, talking, and lighting the fireworks when you want and which ones you want is what makes it so great.
After all the fireworks are lit and my ears are ringing from one too many fireworks going off a tad too quickly, it is time to eat the ice cream and some nice juicy watermelon. Yummy! Another great moment.
To me, Independence Day is better than any presents or costume parties. It is outdoors at its best. It is rural American. It is the ultimate holiday.
Gary R. Hess is the author of July 4th Poems. Be sure to check out July Fourth Quotes.
Featured
Luxury Villa Holidays - Delighting You All the Way
In Holidays - Saturday, March 31, 2012 @ 10:15 AM
There is something about luxury villa holidays that would not let you settle for anything less. Coming to think of it, there can be no substitute for luxury and it should come as no surprise that luxury villa holidays have caught up among the...
[ Continue reading ]