America's birthday and visit to Hyampom

A few days after returning from travels abroad, it was time to celebrate this great country of ours. Upon returning, I was glad to reconnect with my friend Beth and we agreed to enjoy the holiday together. Our other friend Kelly also wanted to join in the fun and volunteered to host the BBQ. It made sense because she lives closest to downtown where the fireworks would be as soon as darkness came. Beth's husband Pat cooked some of his famous pizzas on the grill, followed by meats and an assortment of salads.

The fourth of July fell on a Saturday. In Eureka, the first Saturday of the month is usually Arts Alive where all the shops stay open late and bands play in the streets. After dinner, we took a stroll downtown and window shopped (of course, Beth and I went to look in the Knittery) and even caught a local bluegrass favorite, the Bucky Walters:

Typical of Humboldt county, the fog rolled in and the fireworks were mostly colored clouds. The fireworks and sparklers continued on the street, thanks to Jim, Kelly's boyfriend. Everyone enjoyed the holiday and the grand finale was dessert: strawberries and whipped cream by Beth AND a festive cake decorated by Libby and Elizabeth.

The summer weather has also been good for CD and his plane-mate Dave. They have enjoyed a few afternoons were the fog clears up and they are able to take short trips up in the plane. Most recently, we took the plane to Hyampom, a mountain town where a mutual friend has a house (with swimming pool!) right by the landing strip.

It was just an overnight stay, but we had a great time with Dave and Kim!