Tuesday 4

This week, let's talk about the Fourth of July...

1. Do you think the 4th is an important holiday? Why, why not?
It's America's birthday, so heck yeah it's important. It's important that we take the day to appreciate the freedoms and privileges we have as Americans, and also to remember our forefathers whose blood, sweat, and tears went into bringing this nation into being.
2. How do you celebrate? If you're not American, do you celebrate your nation's national holiday? For years, it was my family's custom to celebrate the 4th at my aunt's house. She and my uncle had a pool, so we'd swim all day, gorge on delicious food, play cards, and then watch the fireworks in the street in front of their house (they had a great view). Now that my aunt and uncle have passed away, and some of my relatives are no longer on speaking terms, there is no big celebration. To be honest, I no longer do anything special to mark the occasion. I don't even attend the local fireworks show.
3. In the time of Laura Ingalls Wilder, all Americans read the Declaration of Independence every year on the 4th and lemonade was a big treat for the town picnic. Do you read the Declaration of Independence? Or your nation's important papers? How about lemonade? Are you a fan? No, I can't say I read the Declaration of Independence (and I was a History major. Go figure!) As for lemonade, I LOVE it, but I haven't had it in years. Too much sugar.
4. Picnic, eat inside the house, or eat out for the 4th? I'll probably just grill a burger and then eat inside. Too many bugs outside, getting up in my face and driving me crazy.

Tuesday 4: Summertime

Play along here.

1. What activities did you enjoy as a kid in the summer? Playing on my swing set or in my sandbox. Riding my bike around the neighborhood. Swimming in my Aunt's pool. Playing miniature golf with my cousins and Grandpa. Chasing after the ice cream truck.
2. Did you go on vacations? Where did you go? The only family vacations we took were to Six Flags amusement park and Cardinals baseball games in St. Louis. When my parents were married, we might have gone twice, maybe three times. After they were divorced, my mom couldn't afford to take us anywhere, but we didn't really mind. She always made sure we got our annual trip to the Heart of Illinois Fair. My brother and I were all about the rides, corn dogs, funnel cakes, and the free grandstand show.
3. Do you have a favorite summer time dinner? Share it with us please? Barbecued chicken, fresh off the grill. My late uncle Jerald made THE best barbecued chicken! I attempt it every summer, but it just doesn't taste the same. 
4. How often do you sit outside and enjoy an iced tea or coffee? Not enough. I'd like to do it more often, but the gnats and wasps are HORRIBLE.