This is one of my favorite times of the year until I realize that I have to get up at the crack of dawn on a day off to be in my husband's hometown for the start of their 4th of July celebration. He grew up in Ridgefield Park, NJ. The town has the oldest continuous 4th of July celebration in NJ and one of the oldest in the nation.
The day begins at 7:45AM (we live 90 minutes away) with the national anthem...then 8:00AM is a fire department inspection. My father-in-law was a member and chief in the department so there are many fond memories. Next is the baby parade (my favorite part). People make floats for their kids and awards are given for the most creative and youngest child etc. The creativity and pride is amazing. My brother-in-law was the youngest one year as he was born in early June. Then the municipal parade....by now I am exhausted.....and we used to go to my mother-in-law's house to rest and eat. Since she is gone, our new tradition is to head south to visit with Ellen and her family.
This year, we are headed to Ellen's tomorrow and will head north on the 4th for what I hope is just the first three events. FlyBoy wants to stay for the municipal parade but with no where to hang and no handy facilities, I just don't see it!
Ah, the things we do for love. I promise to take lots of photos and share them next week.
Happy Fourth of July and God Bless America
Amen! Have a safe, fun time;)
ReplyDeleteI'm exhausted just reading this! Have a fun and safe 4th!
ReplyDeleteGod bless America and her troops!
OK, this is the third time I am trying to leave you a comment. The first time...no go. I came back and my computer freaked out! Had to reboot. Three's the charm, right?
ReplyDeleteAs I was saying...I have been to Ridgewood, oh wait, that is not the same is it? Where is Ridgefield? My sister lives in Park Ridge, the next town over from Ridgewood.
Have a great 4th!!!!
Ridgewood is north of Ridgefield Park. Ridgefield Park is about 5 miles from the George Washington Bridge. Heading south towards the turnpike, it would be on the R just before the toll. Nice little hamlet...very blue collar and lots of good people pouring money into old homes. I love to visit.
ReplyDeleteHappy 4th! And have fun!
ReplyDeleteEnjoyed your blog.
ReplyDeleteI too am a nurse and I have my Nurse Nancy framed.