Until We Felt Red, After We Felt Blue

Kaki King - Yellowcake

Fourth of July fireworks start early in my southern town. Local families flood the campus, scurry up rooftops, erect flags and barbecue atop commuter lots. There are screaming children everywhere, patriotic face paint everywhere, and sparklers. Everywhere. There’s beer everywhere else. There shouldn’t be, but it’s there all the same.

I should be in Tallahassee. Instead I am at home hearing faint remnants of the explosive festivities occurring less than a mile away. When my roommate arrives he will tell the tale I already know by heart, that balloons got carried away much sooner than expected, that the sight of 1,000 necks simultaneously craning skyward in awe was an inspiring sight to behold.

I should have gone out tonight, I know. I was paralyzed. The crowds, the rivers of Bud Light, the children - - dear god - - the children. It would have been too much.

Tomorrow I will read Ultimate Spider-Man and drink homemade chai. I will celebrate to the best of my abilities. I’ve purchased soda and nothing will stand between me and at least one hot dog.

I even bought a pinwheel from the supermarket.

Happy Fourth of July, everyone.

[Buy Kaki King Until We Felt Red]