4th of July Essentials
The 4th of July is upon us and we have hit an unofficial middle point of the summer. The days are long and the temperature is warm. By now most of us should have used some vacation time or at least made some arrangements to spend some time outside in the sun. However, many of us have failed to make the most of the summer months and the 4th of July means it is not too late to start enjoying the climate. No matter what your personal situation is, make sure to consider some of these great 4th of July ideas.
Fireworks
Clearly fireworks is one of the best parts of the 4th. We all have fond memories of watching them with our families when we were young. As we get older we watch them with our friends. Then we become adults and realize how much fun blowing things up really is. Obviously we are always responsible and use safety precautions all the time. Okay, let’s be honest we have all done stupid things and we all have made some pretty poor decisions regarding safety. Thankfully most of us have avoided disasters but remember to not take that for granted. So if we do decide to conduct our own 4th of July fireworks display, make sure to make a few good safety decisions. For those of us who decide to go to a firework, make sure to plan accordingly. Look up the approximate time of the show and consider the best travel methods. Parking is always at a premium during these times. Make sure to have a plan on where to sit and what to bring. Do we want the carry chairs or are we comfortable sitting on blankets? Mistakes will be made and lessons will be learned but remember to have fun and enjoy the show.
Barbeque
Many of us will say we are going to a barbeque but most of us will likely be going to a cookout. There are important differences. A proper barbeque involves hours of preparation and hours of cooking. That being said, a cookout is a great time and lots of fun. It is easier to make burgers and hot dogs on the grill and they are beloved by many. Obviously sides are crucial and there are many to choose from. We can go over the top with an arrangement of grill vegetables, fresh corn, and a spread of salad choices. Or we can do something simple like chips and dip. In reality it doesn’t really matter. These cookouts are about fun, family, and friends. It is a time for everyone to relax and have some fun together. So make sure to have plenty of lawn games or other activities planned. Having some adult beverage options is always a solid play. However, make sure to cover all the practical needs as well. Ensuring that there is ample seating, shade, and places to eat is a must and we must remember to be timely so we are not late to the fireworks show.
Pool
Summer time fun and pools are clearly related. We all like the bright warm feeling of the sun but we all need to stay cool and comfortable as well. Combining these two allows us all to experience the best of both worlds. We can rest in the sun and work on our tans then we can cool off in the pool to ensure we don’t get burned. Also, never forget the importance of the snack bar, or kitchen if it is a private pool. These areas allow us to enjoy the outdoor experience for a longer period of time. Pool style snack food is delicious and there usually is plenty of it around the 4th of July. So, make sure to spend at least a little time in the water this holiday week, it’s an experience worth the effort.
Walk Somewhere
Don’t we walk every day? Well yes, but the type of walk being referred to here is quite different. Walk to the park, or walk to the store, or even just walk around the neighborhood. Just walk a different route than normal and spend a little time in the sun. Most of our walking is in the home, at work, or just simply walking to and from the car or into stores. Walk just to walk. Get some fresh air, get some exercise, and get some peace of mind. A good walk is relaxing and a great alternative to driving everywhere. So if the weather is going to be nice in the neighborhood, walk to the local fireworks show, or to the community pool, or even to a loved one’s house. Walk to visit your family members who are in a nursing home or unable to leave the house and involve them in the fun. Just get some exercise and enjoy the sunlight before cooler temperatures arrive.
It really doesn’t matter how we celebrate the birth of the United States of America, what matters is that we have fun. America was founded on the principle of freedom for all and that is something worth celebrating. Just be responsible and courteous to those around us and have a fun, memorable, and great 4th of July.