…Carole’s prompt this week asks us to share our ideas for celebrating July 4th. I love this holiday – it’s one every American celebrates together and it comes in summertime. But it’s usually a low-key day for us, and will likely be even more-so this year since it’s Sara’s last day here (and she has a “big drive” ahead of her on Saturday and Sunday). In any event, here are ten of my favorite ways to wish our country Happy Birthday!
This is from July 4, 2009; Katie and I enjoyed a picnic in Central Park (only a short bus-ride from her then-very-new apartment!).
1. A picnic in the park. I certainly enjoyed ours in Central Park and look forward to sharing one with Sara in Wingra Park…maybe next year?!
2. Fireworks. I love them, but wow it gets dark late on July 4…and Holly hates the noise. So the best I usually manage is the Capitol Fourth on TV. (note that it doesn’t even cross my mind to set off our own fireworks 🙂
3. A bike parade. Years ago, we would take the girls to visit my parents the week after the 4th. The drive there that morning took us through a really cute small town in southern Alabama and we’d see the kids riding their bikes, all decked out in red, white and blue. It’s a sweet memory and a great way to get everyone involved.
4. The Peachtree Road Race. An Atlanta tradition and I finally joined in last year. It was a blast and I hope to do it again next year. This year I’m going to have to be satisfied with a shorter, hopefully cooler, run on my own.
5. A cookout. Hamburgers and hotdogs, watermelon, cole slaw and potato salad. Our new house doesn’t have a grill (yet?!) but I think we might try some version of this classic American meal anyway.
6. A John Adams marathon on TV. We really enjoyed this series…so much that we bought the DVD’s. I think we could certainly manage a few episodes (unless there’s soccer on!)
7. A flag cake. You know the one I mean – a white sheet cake or a big sugar cookie with cream cheese frosting and strawberries or raspberries for the stripes and blueberries for the stars.
8. Washington DC or Boston. I think I would love to see that Capitol Fourth concert in person, but the Boston Pops is a close second. (or maybe this is one of those crazy thoughts like seeing the Macy’s Parade in person on Thanksgiving?!)
9. A red, white and blue outfit.
10. Golf. this one’s for Marc. I don’t think he’s missed this chance to play 18 holes on a weekday since we stopped taking the girls to my folks (#3 above…I’m guessing it’s been 15+ years). And I’d be lying if I said I didn’t love the free time it gives me in the morning.
How about y’all – how do you like to celebrate this holiday?
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mere-et-filles 
That bike parade sounds wonderful, as do the rest of your items. Enjoy your low-key Fourth; that's how we'll be celebrating here also. Wishing Sara safe travels – I'll be thinking about her!
Those are all great ideas. Boston on the 4th is a madhouse. I have a good friend who used to go every year and she would get there at 6am to secure her spot on the Esplanade! I'm content to watch it on tv.
I haven't seen the John Adams series, may have to do that or Turn when I put my feet up. Something to watch while I'm knittng.
I hope we get to take a hike in the mountains and have a BBQ in the afternoon. Maybe we can also watch fireworks at one of the local parks.I'll bet you'll be on pins and needles while Sara drives to WI. Safe travels to her!
Like Carole said – The Esplanade is ca-razy. I've been one time only. We are lucky enough to cook-out and hit the lake with friends who live there and watch the fireworks all around the cottages from the boat. People go all out! Have a wonderful 4th Mary, I'll join you for the run vicariously!
I think it is wonderful that Sara is beginning her "independent" life on the weekend of the July 4th, when our country became independent. Now you and Marc really are empty nesters! Happy 4th to you! Sylvia
Clearly, watching the Capitol Fourth fireworks on TV; even tho' I live in Wash DC, the TV is the best seat in the house! Enjoyed your list ~mine's in the making, still .Cheers~