Two years ago I made it a point to go down to the Charles River on the 4th of July to hear the Pops and see the fireworks. Last year I convinced my brother-in-law, Steve, and three of his kids to join me. We had a great time among the throngs of people. I thought it was funny that they’d never been, and they’ve lived here for over ten years.  I showed Steve my favorite parking place at Assembly Row, and led them all through the transfer between the orange line and the red line at downtown crossing. The student has now become the master.

This year, no one could get away to join me so I was on my own again. Maybe I arrived early, or there wasn’t as many people as the two previous times I’d attended, because there were quite a few empty places along the rail next to the river. But I didn’t want to stand at the rail for two hours waiting for the show, so I made my way up the lawn to the area in front of the big screen television that displayed the broadcast of the concert. I parked myself on a manhole cover, since I didn’t bring a blanket, and made myself comfortable for the concert.

The fireworks finally arrived and they were as spectacular as ever. At 54, I’ve seen many fireworks displays including some really awesome finales. As this finale began, it occurred to me that all these thousands of people would wait until the very end before heading to the subway station. With that thought in mind, I chose to miss the last three minutes and make a bee line to the Kendall station. Fortune was on my side as I slipped right down to the platform as a train pulled up. It was virtually empty, and I made it to my parking garage in record time. I don’t advocate leaving early to most performances. At Broadway shows I find it quite rude for people to leave during the ovations. But this strategy was guaranteed not to offend anyone.

I’ve attended the event three years straight, but I’m having second thoughts about returning. Solo adventures are great when you find something new, but repeat events feel like I need someone to share them with. Maybe next year the kids will be here and Erik will come with me.  Who knows?  Happy 4th of July.

“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.” – Helen Keller