Independence

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A few folks claimed their turf early before fireworks time. By 9pm, there was no spare space as shown here about 8pm on our way down to the front beach.
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I was lucky to get the day off, n got to go to fireworks with the folks down the hill. It felt strange to be in a group for once.
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In the past decade or so, I've been on my own for events like this. The three previous fireworks in my village I had to work, n one of those was cancelled with short budget bux for security. Then they decided it was economically bad for the town not to have them. A couple others before were too foggy, or I decided to avoid the throngs n stay home instead.

Many times the only option was be alone there or not go.

It can be very difficult n alienating to be in a huge crowd by yourself when it seems everyone else is in a group.
One time in my brave independence at a BMG band gig back in the '90's, I was by myself in a venue of a 10k audience (as a roadie). It's an occasion I'll never forget. Few people have the confidence for such a feat.

After all my years as a single parent after divorce, n then in an empty nest, I've come to embrace my independence, as well as my country's birthday.

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Finally, I got to share this event with others after so long! Unfortunately, the little ones got very antsy, n necessitated an early departure before the finale`... something I'd never do if on my own... Hense no pics of that Part. Oh well.

There are good n bad points about being independent...