Head of the Pack

Summer is (and has always been) such a great, family time for me. One of the best days is my dad's birthday which is the 4th of July. We enjoy a very special day of doing whatever Dad wants to do. This has ranged from barbequing, having movie marathons (when it's been brutally hot), planting flowers and gardening, or helping with Dad’s to-do project list around the house. Also, at some point in the day, there is always the traditional "20-minute drill," a Niemiec family favorite. 20-minute drills are 20-minute cat naps!

My favorite part of the 4th, other than singing "Happy Birthday," is watching the fireworks. When my dad was growing up, my grandparents convinced him that the firework displays were in honor of his birthday!

My parents live in a suburb of Chicago, not far from downtown. There is a foot bridge that extends over one of the major expressways. Every year, we walk down a few blocks to the foot bridge. With cars racing below us, honking horns and waving at all the spectators on the bridge, and the distant glow of the city lights, the foot bridge has an exciting atmosphere with the very best view. Free from tall, old trees, the view of the sky is perfect and panoramic. All of the surrounding town displays can be enjoyed in all of their glory!

I hope this summer is filled with many exciting and memorable times for you.

Happy Summer Days!
(and Happy Birthday, Dad!)

p.s. Are you diggin' my glasses?