So, the 4th of July.

J grew up in the country and so did I, mostly, so until this year we always saw the annual fireworks displays in small towns and suburbs. This was the first time that either of us had been in the city for the 4th of July, and we weren't quite sure what to expect. I think we can both agree on one thing. It was insane.

We walked down to the edge of the bluff, just a few blocks away, and had a clear view of St. Paul and all around. Big fireworks were going off all around the skyline. We were so confused and overwhelmed by the gratuitous display that we spent half the time watching traffic at the intersection of 3rd and Mounds Blvd. Vehicles moved independantly of traffic lights and without regard for pedestrians or other vehicles; I am amazed that we did not witness a crash. The police came through several times but didn't stop to ticket any blatant red-light-runners. I guess they were going to an awesome party.

People were crowding in on lawns and sidewalks and setting off firecrackers and crap all over the place. Some boys on the 3rd St. bridge were shooting bottle rockets out of their hands. What I assume was the official professional display started around 10:30 and was underwhelming compared to the grand Stillwater show that I grew up with. Meanwhile, amateur operators continued their personal light shows unabated. It was like the middle of a frickin' warzone walking home with flashes of light and loud pops going off around every corner, with the occasional rocket flying overhead.

On the way back, we talked about how maybe we would be happier living out in the country after all. But there was one big advantage to the city location: we were able to walk home and be in bed ten minutes after the (official) fireworks ended. The drawback, of course, was the unsanctioned explosions that went off all night long.

Categories: life