Cause for Celebration

Dear Amateur Firework Enthusiasts,

I enjoy fireworks as much as the next person. I even enjoy watching the illegal fireworks that are displayed throughout the neighborhood in the weeks leading up to the 4th. I understand completely the joy in sitting out in your lawn chairs watching the lovely colors explode against the night sky, as you and your friends sigh “Oohh”’s and “Aaahhh”’s while trying to figure out just how they get fireworks to display smiley faces in those professional shows.

Here’s the thing about that night sky: It ends at 11. I work in the morning, as do a lot of other people in this neighborhood. Just because you are on summer vacation doesn’t mean the rest of us are. Last night I was tucked in, asleep, peaceful, and finally at a perfect temperature. When I rolled over, a giant “KKAAABOOOOOM, SHhhhhhhzzzzzzz…” made me jump about 10 feet high, and temporarily disturb my ceiling fan.

Not only did this frighten me, it also frightened every single dog in the neighborhood, which includes my dog who sleeps in the room right next to mine. You may have noticed that there are a lot of dogs in this neighborhood, and every single one of them barks like crazy when they get attacked by loud noises in the middle of the night. After forcing my heart back into my chest, I had to listen to about 15 dogs bark followed by their owners’ attempts at getting them quiet by yelling even louder.

The next time you have the urge to play with colorful fire late at night, stop by and I will be more than willing to buy you some sparklers.

All the Best,
M