Back In The Day

Happy 4th of July! How many of you are cooking barbecue and all the fixings right now? Well I am and loving every minute of it. I am also reflecting to past celebrations. Those of my childhood are on my mind today.


I baked and decorated some sugar cookies today. Inspired by Martha Stewart Living Magazine's cover, I went to work on pinwheel cookies. How many of you played with pinwheels as children. I loved choosing my favorite from all of the bright colors. They were usually displayed at the check out counter of the local dime store. I did get tired of blowing on the pinwheel trying to make it spin. Of course, the fun soon stopped when the pinwheel laid bent and crumpled from over use. The cookies will probably soon be gone as well. When Mr. DD spots them only crumbs will remain. :-)

Many of you are probably at a lake somewhere this holiday weekend. When I was a child my family always celebrated the 4th on the banks of the local lake. My Dad and Uncle took turns each year going early (really early) to pick and hold the perfect spot. Always under a tree and close to the "beach". That way the adults could be close by the children but could also enjoy the shade trees. About 10am those of us left behind would load into one car.....yes it was crowded and head to the lake. The driver was always either my uncle or father. Secretly I think that when it was their turn to arrive at the lake early my Father and Uncle actually enjoyed that "alone time" at the lake. Better than having to pack a car and drive a car load of excited children. Back in the day there was no AC in that car so it wasn't a pleasant trip! :-)

A watermelon was always on the menu, along with hamburgers, hotdogs, and all the fixings. We had so much fun just laughing, playing, and sharing each others company. I believe a game or two of horse shoes was played. A baseball was usually on hand as well as a football. My Dad and Uncle always made sure that there was plenty of fun. My Mom and Aunt made sure we were all well fed.


Oh the good memories of "back in the day". Today Mr. DD and I will enjoy traditional food, watch some fireworks, and listen to some patriotic music. We will also remember to be thankful for the freedom we enjoy and to be thankful to the men and women who have sacrificed so much to preserve that freedom. Have a wonderful holiday! Oh yes, enjoy a pinwheel cookie....it's on me!