The funny part, though, is that I always assumed it didn't look the way I had envisioned because of me. I figured that, once I got married, or once I had kids, or once I joined the Marines--something would happen that would trigger instant Norman Rockwellness. Ok, fine, Martha Stewartness works too. I would spend holidays "practicing" for those moments--preparing different side dishes to try out when I had people for whom to cook. Yes, I was pathetic. But I was also certain that "someday" would come.
Well, it sort of has. But it's not what I had planned. For starters, in the real world Martha spent months in jail. But now that I have an immediate group of people who are legally obligated to attend holidays with me, it's just tiring. It's fun, definitely, and totally worth it. But generally I prefer to spend holidays with my son and my dad, watching sports and eating on the couch. I don't think Mr. Rockwell envisioned such a scene....
But here's the thing (and all due respect to Norman)--I think these informal, less-than-photo-perfect days make me happier than anything I could envision. I know plenty of people who break out the good china, force their significant others not to work, and wait for a feeling of completeness that never comes. It's kind of sad.
So this Fourth of July, let go of the picture in your head of children marching to a neighborhood parade to a finish line at whcih you had concocted a feast so magnificent, people from neighboring counties ask next year to attend (ok, fine, maybe that was just in my head). So what if your holiday consists of you and the dog and a box of Wheaties. If you're enjoying the Wheaties and the dog's company, you're doing better than most. Be safe, have fun, and party like holidays were meant to be partied--just enjoying the day.
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