Independence Day Open Thread

Happy Independence Day, one and all.

Soon, perhaps at dawn's early light, I will be inflating every pool, slide and water amusement we own on the direct orders of my daughter  Tess. She has declared this an America Day Extravaganza. I cannot argue with such patriotic zeal.

And water seems like a good idea, considering it will be 99 degrees, give or take a degree, add the heat index, stir. But I've always believed that the Fourth should be good and hot. Just like it should snow every Christmas Eve, on cue, at the most heartwarming moment. I blame the movies for my delusions.

So there will be water, and fire. The plan is to slowly smoke enough pork to feed the troops at Valley Forge. And because all of our water will be in various pools, vessels, etc., we'll likely have to find other stuff to drink. I have ideas.

Baseball? Perhaps. Fireworks? Definitely. At dusk.

If you're also barbecuing, here's my favorite rib rub, from my favorite BBQ joint.

If you're also out of water, and wonder what patriots back in the day might have sipped, here's a nice piece on that. And if you would like the recipe for a Rattle-Skull. here it is. Aptly named.

Did you know that the word "cocktail" may have colonial American origins? It's disputed, but what isn't?

And I know many of you will watch fireworks, but you likely won't see a 48-inch shell. (48-inches!). Unless you watch the video below.

Stay safe, have fun, and again, Happy 4th of July. And if you feel like sharing your own plans, please feel at liberty to do so.