As I’ve been acclimating to my new city it’s been striking
to see things that are the same and things that are different. This week here’s my observation – No Firework
stands. None, zero, zip. How do students raise money for summer
camp? How do kids make memories of
sparkler dances and fountains of sparks going off? They don’t.
Families attend July 4th parades, eat hot dogs and go to
shows sponsored by cities, towns or companies.
Talking with the locals they event tell me that the big sponsored firework
shows can often be cancelled due to dry conditions.
I still remain open to this new Colorado life, but I
appreciate more the year watching my dad light bottle rockets over the ocean,
dancing with sparklers on the basketball court, and sparks of fountains falling
down like rain.
May this year bring new happy memories and may you make your
own sparks.
No matter where you are this July 4th. Celebrate safely and if you are in a place
with sparklers. Light one for me!
