The Fourth of July

This coming week we celebrate the Fourth of July, our nation's birthday.

Growing up the Fourth meant the biggest celebration of the year in our small town of Aberdeen, NC, located along the Norfolk/Southern railroad line & next door to Southern Pines. My uncle, editor of the local paper and Speaker of the House in the '60's, came up with the idea & was a proud supporter of the festivities, helping in organizing and carrying out the day long activities.

A huge parade through the small business district began mid morning & was followed by speeches given by the mayor, the Jaycee's, & local politicians, and usually Miss N.C. would appear. Then games of all sorts, including horseshoes, sack races, a greasy pole contest, tennis, and so forth, would commence next to Aberdeen Lake & continue through the afternoon. Refreshments galore were available; hot dogs, cotton candy, drinks, ice cream, etc. In the evening, along with a street dance, the Miss Aberdeen pageant would be held at the nearby school, and for the finale, as everyone congregated by the lake once again, fireworks were set off over the lake, bursting into diamonds & sparkles & glitter, sealing a grand day of community fun & revelry.
We came & stayed all day & into the evening:)

The Aberdeen celebration has dwindled to fireworks & refreshments.
But my love for the Fourth and especially fireworks over a lake sends me to Regency here in Cary any time I can convince my family to brave the crowds.
I love the patriotic music and the sparkles in the sky:)
Our nation's birthday!
Glorious!