July 4th. Independence Day. America’s birthday.
What were you up to that day?
A parade.
A BBQ.
Fireworks.
Work.
Did you eat too much, stay up too late, let your kids have too much sugar and almost burn themselves or their siblings with sparklers?
My husband’s place of employment was in the parade this year, so I got to sit in the front seat of the truck and wave like a princess.
My cheeks hurt from smiling so much and my hand wanted to fall off at the elbow.
But it was fun.
I think that was a very good spot for an introvert to be during a parade if an introvert chose to be in a parade.
I got to interact with people from a distance. No small talk. No awkward handshakes. No uncomfortable silence after the exchange of names.
And parents didn’t think it weird that I waved to their kids and tried to get them to smile back.
Plus, from my spot in the truck, I didn’t have to walk all that time or keep track of any of the kiddos that were walking with us. Their parents got to do that.
And I got to take pictures and post to Instagram and Twitter during the parade–when I wasn’t waving. That was fun.
After the parade, it was home to prep the dishes we took to the BBQ and a short nap.
I made my first ever berry trifle. It was delicious! And it was the only dessert that was eaten. You can find the recipe here.
There were a few good conversations at the BBQ. I took my yarn and a book with me. All good introverts take things with them to events. They provide possible discussion starters, which essentially do away with the need for small talk because they provide a point of conversation.
And my husband set off a wonderful fireworks display.
How was your Fourth? Did you have a lot of yummy food and some fireworks?
Do you have any July 4th traditions?