the fifth of July

A crush of happy events has prevented me from waxing eloquent at the computer keyboard this week. A bedroom of jumbled clothes, half-unpacked suitcases, and assorted piles of clean laundry was my morning visual. With the latest company (Hubby's dad and step-mom from Albuquerque, along with their camper) already pulled out and on the road, this hostess had no immediate reason to rise. #1 Daughter had lined the kitchen island with dozens of her specialty (molasses crinkles) that served as an instant breakfast to any early risers. The dust from Hubby's suburban had settled hours ago, seeing that he left at 4 am for JFK. The second wave of our dear Spain team is finally en route over the Atlantic after spending an extended stay in London, courtesy of the high terror alert. All is well with them and with their sleepy heads. #1 Son is still a-bed, and I don't begrudge him the extra sleep. All of us need to recharge for tomorrow's schedule: a trip to Utica for a wedding rehearsal and dinner.
We celebrated the Fourth yesterday in varying measures, depending on one's style. The menfolk tinkered with the boat while the womenfolk attended the Norwood parade. Together, we prepared dinner (Hubby grilled in the pouring rain) and enjoyed some patriotic elocution in the living room. The jury is out on this one: the final verses of "America the Beautiful" are tear-jerkers. We wrapped up the evening by watching the PBS "A Capitol Fourth".
As the day progresses, I aim to transform some notebook scribblings from Spain into bonafide entries. I have only 1500 photos (thanks, #1 Son) to inspire me!