Lazy Days of Summer

Well, not quite. If working till 11 p.m. several nights in a row and then till 2 a.m. when I get home isn't enough, I'm here at work on the day before a holiday, blech!

But, let me tell you about my weekend! On Saturday evening, my son discovered fireflies! All the neighborhood kids were running about trying to catch the little lightning bugs right when the sun had left the sky and darkness was beginning to fall.

My son caught one and then two . . . I raced to get a camera, but instead joined in the fun. Around the yard we ran chasing lights! After we were tired and a little chilled, as the sun had taken its warmth with it, we sat around a campfire.

The Boy attempted to roast marshmallows, but kept burning them, so we simply ate them from the bag.

We set off some bottle rockets and roman candles to the absolute delight of two sleepy three year olds.

The neighbor boy exclaimed: "What the heckus was that ruckus!" Which caused a ring of laughter.

My son, clasped his hands together as if praying to the firecracker gods and said "OOO baby! do it again!" I cannot wait until tomorrow when they can really enjoy themselves!

See my family, and the neighbor family get together for a blowout. We each chip in for fireworks (nearly $2,000 this year) and we are festive and merry all day!

Our menu is chicken, ribs, lamb and turkey in the smoker for the afternoon, with plenty of sides and cavity pie. (and wontons too!)

I always go way out and get lots of stuff for the kiddies. This year we have three - 3 - Pinata's and lots of games. I spent yesterday putting stuff in the pinatas.

We also have glow necklaces for when the sun goes down. I'm always a hit with the glow stuff!

All our friends join us and the day is ended with fireworks to rival most public shows. Ours usually lasts a good hour or so. We have a competition with a neighbor about 3 miles away, when there is a lull in ours they start to put theirs off!

Anyway, tonight I'm taking my son to ride go carts and quads and we'll likely catch some more fireflies.

Have a wonderful fourth of July! And don't forget what we celebrate. We are free, because brave men and women fought and died for our freedom. Take a moment to remember that when you hoist your flag tomorrow.

To the men and women still serving, about to serve or to the families who've lost a loved one in service, this day still honors you - no hot dogs, hamburgers or firecrackers can overpower your sacrifice!