Extended 4th of July Weekend, 2021

The 4th is on Sunday this year.  That pretty much turns a three day weekend into a four or five day affair.  I'm OK with that, we got short changed last year and b'sides, I'm retired and have lots of time.  So....

July 1st. I went fishing with one of my sons.  Two new additions to the life list!  Channel Catfish and this beauty which is variously called Sheepshead, Freshwater Drum and Croaker.  The latter name is because when you grip them they make an odd noise.  More like guttural purring.  Definite candidate for a Strange Fish Geocach.

July 2nd.  Headed up to lake.  Traffic not too bad, you see such scare stories regards holiday travel.  All ambitions fade up here.  Just sitting around and enjoying.  Dog lacked ambitions to start with.

July 3rd.  I guess this was Free Enterprise Day.  The little town near our cabin is obviously a lot busier in the summer than at other times of year.  On this sunny holiday Saturday there were little sales going on all over.  Bake Sale, Book Sale, two competing Farmer's Markets, Thrift Sales.  Everyone seemed to be in on the act.  I went to the Lutheran Church bake sale.  When I was checking out they asked if I wanted a little flag.  Sure I did.  One stop shopping where you could find God, the Flag and Apple Pie.  Although to be accurate I got a plate of cookies.  Lutherans are good at cookies.

July 4th.  Parades.  One if by Land....

Small town Independence Day celebration.  Warm sun.  A fine turnout.  It began with an invocation by the local VFW Commander who was filling in for the ailing Chaplain.  A prayer for our country and the wish that we all work together in divisive times.  Then the Pledge of Allegiance and a first rate rendition of the Star Spangled Banner.  Sweet, sincere, done by someone who put the idea ahead of any personal affectations.  The VFW color guard led the parade.

I like the flag in the young lady's hair.  You saw many such flourishes.  

In addition to patriotism I saw a bit of American Ingenuity on display.  Here a building supply store has found a more efficient way to dispense sugary treats to the younger set.  Gutter segments that direct it right to the curb!

The message on the truck refers to the fact that they were giving away Double Bubble bubble gum.  Eh, no thanks.

And....two if by sea.

Our little lake has an annual 4th of July boat parade.  We sit on the dock and cheer them on.  It's once or twice around the lake then everyone back to water skiing or barbequing or whatever.

Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves.  Young folk, old folks....

Dogs.

The Leisure Navy sails away.  Fireworks after dark, much to the displeasure of the canines.  

Another warm and lazy day forecast for tomorrow.  Company on the way.