Independence Day

We spent a wonderful Independence Day holiday. There was a Bach rehearsal from 4:30 to 7 PM the night before, and afterwards we met up with our friends Jackie and Mike at Ribera Beach for a barbecue. They have a tradition of hanging out there with a bunch of friends every July 3. It was wonderful. It was so warm that I had to take off my jacket. I can't remember the last time I could do that at the beach in Carmel. There was nobody else there - probably due to the long access staircase. Absolutely gorgeous, with clear skies and a brilliant sunset. As darkness descended, the stars shone with unusual clarity, and Venus and Jupiter stood out from the background like searchlights.

Next day we went out to Spreckels to see the little parade they have and have yet another barbecue at our friend Patty's house. The sun was out in full force, and the postage stamp size town was packed to the gills with visitors. If we hadn't been able to park in Patty's driveway, we would have had to park at least a mile away. Amazing. The parade was cute and the food was all American - hamburgers, foot long hot dogs, potato salad and apple pie. It was absolutely delicious - Patty is a waitress here in town, and one of the best. She always gets significantly more than anyone can eat, and takes whatever is left to the woman's shelter afterwards.

At 5 PM or so we attended our third barbecue in as many meals at our friend Lisa and Robin's house. This time we brought ribs marinated in beer, sage and honey, and there were grilled vegetables and chicken to boot. The fireworks at the harbor didn't start until after 9 PM so as to be visible in the dark. That was way past our bedtime, but we heard them! We haven't had such an enjoyable fourth in years.