Ah, summer. When kids run through sprinklers, garish sequined red, white and blue shirts are pulled out from the back of the closet, and the ever-present smells of barbecue and gunpowder waft on the breeze.

The Fourth of July marks America’s independence, and what better way to celebrate such an occasion than to set fire to things, watch them hurdle into the sky and explode! (I’m pretty sure it’s a requirement in the U.S. Constitution) All set to the required soundtrack of Lee Greenwood, Neil Diamond and other luminaries.

It’s hard not to smile, though, when you see a child’s face look up in amazement when the fireworks momentarily paint the sky. It also evokes memories of waving around white hot sparklers when I was a wee lad. (the burns on my hands and retinas were always worth it)

Enjoy the following fireworks display, just remember to keep your pets safe. And if you hear anyone utter the words “Hey everybody, watch this!”, immediately turn the hose on them. They’ll thank you for it later.

Happy Birthday, America!