A real Independence Day picnic

Last Saturday we met with an American homeschooling friend and her son for a picnic in recognition of the 4th of July. Normally it’s a rainy day and/or it falls on a working day so our celebrations almost always are adjusted to compensate. One year, we did attend an event organized by the American Women’s Club on the day. What a disappointment that one was! It was quite expensive, the food was minimal and poor quality, and there was hardly anything in the way of entertainment. The worst part was that the people were most unfriendly and unwelcoming.

This year, however, was different. We had somewhat different fare than I’m used to and it was just a small group, but it was quite enjoyable (if you discount the mosquitos!). We ate baked potatoes, corn on the cob, chicken and sausages (not really American but all of us despise American style hot dogs so…). My friend brought a yummy salsa verde and chips, plus a pack of Oreos for the occasion. We had a nice chat and shared memories of holidays past and of the US, in general. For the adults, I think it went pretty well. The kids fared somewhat less well.

Lego Lover spent much of the time sitting with me at the picnic table and swinging at the little playground. He was mostly in a good mood but was unable or unready to interact with the young son of my friend.  Game Fanatic stood around looking rather bored but eventually did eat some food. He wouldn’t sit down because the tables were all pretty grungy and he was completely put off getting anywhere near them. Besides, he really dislikes picnics as a rule, mostly for reasons even he cannot explain. My friend’s son, who was desperate for a play mate was left mostly dissatisfied that day. The Scientist spent some time with him toward the end of our short outing and that was the whole of it.

My friend and her son were still recovering from a nasty flu so we didn’t linger long after we’d eaten. As it was, she felt she had overdone it after eating so little for many days before.

And that was our real holiday picnic, even if it wasn’t quite like the ones I remembered from my childhood.