got my rubber sandals (got my straw hat)

Summer’s here! Despite the fact that it is sixty-two here and cloudy, I know that June Gloom is on its way out and soon the morning will start seventy-five and sunny.

To celebrate, I took the day off. (Well no, not really. My friend Brandon is in town, and I took the day off to hang out with him. I figured since I haven’t really seen him for more than a few hours in like five years, we could have a day together.)

Once this marine layer burns off, Brandon, Jeff, and I will hit the town, seeing the Hollywood sign, seeing if our feet match Will Smith’s, and posing in front of the Beverly Hills sign. Or you know, eating tacos from a truck and then going to Diddy Reese’s. Or seeing the ocean and walking Santa Monica pier. Who knows. Lots of options to be had.

In the larger picture, last night at book club Rebecca said, “Did you know that July fourth is next weekend?”

“No, it’s not. It’s…next weekend!? What? What are we doing?” I proclaimed.

“Dockweiler? Beach day? It’s the third.” Chaos ensued, but not before we got it hammered out that we’d be headed to the beach for the day. Like always. I love a good summer tradition to get things started off right.

Circa 2009. Look at all that American love.

2010. I love this photograph because I’m pretty sure they were only partially aware it was being taken.

What are all of you doing for the summer?

July 4: Year two, things learned, plan in place.

Friends. In a few short days, we will be embarking on the July 4th that will be perfect. After last year’s lessons learned, we are modifying our plans, and making a lot of lists. Are you ready for this?

To bring:

For entertainment…

paper (for M.A.S.H., keeping rummy scores, etc.)
cards (playing and/or pinochle)
crossword puzzles (both from the paper and in books)
books
ipod
ipod boombox
frisbee
football
camera

For the day…

sun screen
bathing suits
hat
first aid kit
chairs
towel (1 per person)
blanket
toilet paper roll
hand sanitizer
sun umbrella
comb
detangler for hair
goggles for the water
hairs ties (for braiding, etc.)
bobby pins
plastic baggy (for covering valuables/phones)

For the night…

bug spray
lantern
Flash light
head lamps
layers
change of clothes
wood

For cooking…

skewers
cooking utensils for grill
grill
lighter fluid
lighter
charcoal
paper towels
plates
utensils
cups
soap
cooking water
trash bag for garbage
folding table for laying food out
cooler for drinks and food
ice for cooler
thermos (coffee)

For eating…

breakfast
lunch (sandwiches, wraps)
snacks
veggies for kabobs
burgers
condiments
pasta salad
water
beer

Anything I am missing? I am sure I will think of a few things, but let me know what YOU bring the beach to make it an excellent day.

Last year’s event…