It's 9 O'Clock

On July Fourth. Our nation's birthday. In several locations, there are explosions being set off at this precise moment. Intentional explosions, only these are not meant to destroy marketplaces or homes. They are not intended to take people's lives. They are simply explosions for entertainment. Pretty colors. Whee!

For some reason I don't feel like looking at them now. My husband is out watching them with friends. They will probably drink and celebrate into the wee hours of the morning.

But I don't feel like celebrating. Can you guess why?

I want to be alone. I can hear the helicopters overhead in the soupy air. It is hot, muggy and uncomfortable tonight. I have no problem being the party pooper.