I've been doing some pre Independence Day shopping. You know, boring stuff to buy, but fun because you know it's a shared experience: steaks, liquor, beer, beer, liquor, potato salad, that kind of thing. I know it's hokey but I'll do my annual watching of 1776, uncut.
Also, I had to make some utility-related phone calls, some insurance-related phone calls, you know the sort of telephone-tree timewasting. All the reps said "Happy Holiday." I said "Happy Independence Day" in return. I didn't think it might mean something until the third time no one responded in kind--you'd think one would make a second comment.
So everywhere I go in person as well, the shopping in the first paragraph, I'm hearing "Happy Holiday." When I said "Happy Independence Day" back the first time, I got a little funny look, but didn't think too much of it. Happened at least twice more. I tell you those looks said to me, "what are you, some kind of nut?" For calling tomorrow Independence Day.
I cannot escape the the conclusion-by-gut that I'm hearing the same thing done to Independence Day as is constantly being done to Christmas.
Not going to let it ruin the day, but still...bugs me.
Time to open some rum. I had the idea of mixing it with the syrup from several canned fruits. Anyone else ever try that sort of mix? Rum seems most appropriate to me as an Independence Day drink. I mean, it was one of the commonest and cheapest drinks around back then.