independence day

as it does every year about this time, my neighborhood is starting to feel like a war zone. the sounds of things exploding and crackling and whistling through the air have the cats hiding under anything that will stand still long enough. sparks and smoke are rising from every part of Pacifica -- almost as much smoke as fog. and, of course, the lights of the police cars cruising up and down every street trying pointlessly to stop the illegal fireworks show.

a few rockets have gone up already, but it's just this minute gotten dark enough for people to start setting off the serious contraband. thus i must put on my sweater and wool socks and repair to the balcony for the show.