Picnics and Fireworks

I wonder how many families in America actually celebrate the Fourth of July with a picnic and fireworks?

That’s been the tradition in my home as far back as I can remember. My folks used to take us to  the community park  for a full day of family activities, with a parade, pie eating contest, arcade games and concerts on an outdoor stage – followed by a half hour show of fireworks as it got dark.

Of course, my dad often performed on stage with the local bands on their request. I was always so proud of him to see him take the stage and play the piano and sing along with whatever music they chose to play. He could wing it if he had never heard the tune before and he was always happiest playing the piano.