The 4th of July has always been a big deal and I guess it is to all us Americans.
No matter what age or political beliefs the 4th is our holiday to embrace our culture and lifestyle.

When I think of this day I always associate it with memories of bonfires on the beach and the obligatory viewing of a fireworks display with family and friends. Ok when we were younger we did the family thing first then I would walk down the beach with my older brother and cousin to drink beer and undoubtedly get into trouble.
Weather it was getting busted for drinking by my Dad or getting chased through the dunes by cops, our night was bound to end one way or the other.

These days things are a bit different although I live close to the beach I have not been to a bonfire in many years and the only fireworks displays I've seen lately have been from a great distance. Mostly due to having young children and knowing there limits. However that's all about to change my boys are at the age where this might actually be enjoyable. We will be attending our local parade and fireworks display and joining the masses who flock to our town for this 4th of July.

It's funny how things can change but really stay the same.

So to cousin Jeff, brother Scott, and to everyone else Happy Independence Day. May you elude the trappings of the man and try not blow a limb off with an explosive.
Enjoy your celebrations and above all be safe.

Lastly because I seem to bring music into all aspects of life here's something I came up with off the cuff.

The Independence Day Mix Tape
1. 4th of July - X (obvious choice but still a great song)
2. You're Hand in Mine - Explosions in the Sky
3. A Salty Salute - Guided by Voices
4. Summer Teeth - Wilco
5. Indendence Day - Elliott Smith
6. The National Anthem - Radiohead
7. See America Right - The Mountain Goats
8. It's Summertime - The Flaming Lips
9. July,July - The Decemberists
10. Celebrated Summer - Husker Du

That was harder than I thought it would be, maybe I'll comit that to cdr tonight and annoy Mrs. Speakers and all my neigboors.