The 4th of 23

I can't figure out how to enjoy the 4th of July here.

 

In fact, I never could figure it out.

 

I remember moving to the city the summer of'94 after 

graduating from BYU. I vividly remember the Bay Bridge shrouded in mist crossing over to the city...unpacking my belongings out of the car and thinking...

I'M...UH...COLD?

Leaving the sunny parades of Utah and giant firework shows with audiences dressed to the hilt in patriotic colors, probably holding pinwheels in those very same colors, and maybe wearing some face paint. I was completely oblivious to the fact that other places are bereft of these hokey but homey details.

I was unaware upon moving here that the damp, drizzly fog with it's looming presence just for the city and coastlines every summer would nearly have me refusing that a 4th of July could ever exist here. 

I mean, a plateful of watermelon looks so much happier on a sunny gingham picnic blanket right?

I remember praying back in 2002 while heavy and pregnant, that Lucy would be born on the 4th(my due date was the 10th) so I could have something that I had to absolutely celebrate, fog or shine!

Lucy came on the 3rd.

No firecracker baby for me!

 

I believe this problem is a location thing. 

We made it quite fun at the Milkbarn though!

We made some amazingly good memories:)

We are back now and how funny it is that I find myself in the same rut, the same gloom, wondering if I should just be okay watching

 Top Gun: Maverick EVERY YEAR from this time forth.

So, I did read the Preamble to the U.S. Constitution and made food and in fact....watched Top Gun :)

*an early surf session was had by the kids...I'll admit, that did look fun! 

Happy Gloomy 4th!