a really belated Fourth of July post

This was the first year in a long time that we missed the fireworks on the fourth. We went back and forth about going, but decided it wasn't worth the hassle of the crowds and the mosquito bites if it turned out that Ralph wasn't a fan of them. My sister had everyone over to her house for some good summer food instead-- grilled burgers and a decked out backyard and firefly catching and the sound of fireworks from a distance. It was just as good. Maybe better.

And if you're not going to get fireworks on the fourth, you may as well get blueberry pie, is what I always say. I used Martha's recipe for the crust and the pie and, with Ryan and Ralphie's help, both turned out beautifully. Try it. You'll like it.