Happy 4th

I remember when the 4th of July meant hot dogs and hamburgers, playing pickup basketball with the Cousins, firework shows, and whatever elicit fireworks my older relatives managed to procure. Sparklers, Snakes (I loved the smell and the mess), and Flowers were my particular favorites. Mostly because those were the only things I was allowed to light myself. All the cool stuff like Fountains and Roman Candles were lit by the big people.

When I was 12 I brought my own goodies to the family gathering. M-80's and bottlerockets, purchased from an enterprising friend who did his firework shopping in Tiajuana. The bottlerockets being shot at passing cars from my Uncle's cul de sac, aimed at rooftops, and my Cousin's cat did not go over well. M-80s? I think everyone on the block noticed. My participation in the family firework show was severely restricted following that.

This year with the kids around I splurged a lil bit. $160 bucks worth of goodies. But I get to light them.

Have a Happy 4th.