Something about July demands a pause. Maybe it’s the heat that makes everything move a little slower, or the long days that beg to be filled with something other than gardening. Either way, by the time the calendar flips to July 4, it’s not only about independence but about stepping back, soaking it in, and finally letting summer begin.
If you’re lucky enough to live in (or visit) a small town, there’s no better way to hit the reset button than a classic Fourth of July celebration. Ours starts early with the scent of syrup and sizzling sausage in the air as the Masons flip flapjacks at the 7:00 AM Pancake Breakfast. Don’t dare leave without a second helping.
Then, by 10:00, it’s time to head downtown for the Main Street parade. Not the fancy, big-city kind with floats sponsored by corporations, but a homegrown lineup of fire trucks, 4-H kids, big rigs polished to a shine, and a high school marching band playing “Stars and Stripes Forever” just a little off-key. You’ll see kids scrambling for candy, neighbors chatting from lawn chairs, and maybe even the street department soaking everyone with their water truck.
The heart of the day? That’s at 4:00 PM, when the crowd gathers for the greased pig contest. It’s a messy, hilarious tradition that HHH and his four brothers have won many times while truly bringing home the bacon. There’s just something about watching kids chase a squealing piglet around a coral that makes you forget your worries, even if just for two minutes at a time. HHH retired some years ago, this being a younger man’s game.
Of course, no small-town celebration is complete without food, fun, and fireworks at sundown. We’re talking corn dogs, lemonade, watermelon slices, and the unmistakable smell of homemade food drifting through the air. As the sun dips below the mountains, families will spread blankets in the back of pickup beds while waiting for the big show.
Then, when the sky finally turns black and the first tracer whistles upward, there’s an overwhelming sense of peace, gratitude, and pride for our beautiful country. Something you didn’t realize you needed until you’re in the middle of it.
Immersed in all the hoopla, I’ll be stepping away for a bit of much-needed relaxation while soaking in all that summer has to offer. I’ll return refreshed and recharged on July 14th. Until then, I hope your days are filled with sunshine, slow mornings, and sweet moments that remind you why summer is so special.
Here’s to fireworks, freedom, and finding a little time to breathe.
