We drove, we visited, we ...

Shanna had to spend the week before-n-after the 4th of July on the road. It happens. In Chandler we would have enjoyed time with the Arizona branch, along with the local sights and sounds. This year I decided to drive to Indy and enjoy a lengthened holiday weekend with the Indiana branch.

The history of the War of 1812 is beyond Galen's current state of mind. The 4th in Phoenix is a hot and dusty affair and I had never felt ready to shepherd the young man through the evening. Now at 3 1/2, surrounded by a phalanx of family and in a markedly greener and cooler environment, it should be a delight. It was. Liam (and Natasha)? They were at Grandma-n-pa's while Grandpa stood guard.

The weekend brought me the pleasure of speaking with a whole range of family members. I enjoyed the talks, but as memories go, I think they pale when compared to the memories now held in a young boy's mind. Fourth of July fireworks are a visual and aural display of patriotism. For Galen, explosions and flashes are now a visceral connection to our collective past.