July 4th

When in Rome do as the Romans do ... every nation has its myriad of customs and typical events. Even as a visitor for a short time one should get involved and enjoy them. Throughout the years July 4th is not a holiday I had experienced first hand. Always opting to be somewhere else.

This year I was lucky to spend the occasion at Uncle Bill's place in the Pocanos. Kelly and I had visited a few months earlier, for our Thelma and Louise getaway. This time it was different ...

What does July 4th mean ... hot dog eating contests, bbq, fireworks, family, a spot of fishing, hours of Liar's Poker ... pretty priceless

The boa

There was screaming outside my window last night. Slightly more robust than the transvestite yelps I have become accustomed to over the last few months. This morning on the way back from my run I spot a sad red feather boa. It shows signs of belligerency but it was survived intact. Now it lies abandoned on the pavement.

Summer Stage

The Summer Stage at Central Park a quintessential NYC experience. Tonight it was an especially balmy night, next to no humidity and glancing up you could spot the odd star. Perfect setting for some memorable quotes, while The National played in the background.

Ohh, wait wait ... there was the guy in the red shirt, the Dutch guy ... you are right!There was only three ...

From a couple standing nearby

Err ... can you like ... stop chatting ... we came to hear the band

A few minutes later, the retort

Err ... can you please stop the PDAs ... we came to see the band but now can't stop staring that the soft porn show you're putting on ...

It isn't Ascot

It may just be better!

There is the air of fun without the stuffy dress code. To get into the box seats the men are in jackets and ties and the women in dresses, but it is a far cry from the coat tails, hats and stockings look enforced within the Ascot Royal Enclosure.

The area surrounding the Stands is full of families who have set up a picnic. They are there is full force with their youngest running after the fairyfloss. The beer is plentiful and the laughter addictive.

We rolled in mid afternoon, bet on a few races, came out pretty even and set off home just as the few rain drops started coming down.

It may not be Ascot, but later that night I saw the Big Dipper for the first time. That in itself makes it all the more memorable.