In America, The Fourth of July -- our so-called "Independence Day" -- is a time of raucous celebration. Families and friends gather around the country for burgers and hot dogs, slaw and baked beans, beers and cigars, and plenty of fireworks (of course). As children, though, The Fourth of July takes on an almost mystical air, when permutations of people get together you don't often see at once, where entire neighborhoods collapse under the weight of visitors, when adults seem to get hammered at light speed while their kids play in the pool from dawn 'til dusk, and where you don't have to ever get up to catch the school bus in the morning. In the end, celebrating Fourth of July is all about Summer in America, and all the awesomeness that comes along with it. So let's reminisce.

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