WALKING MY WAYS

WALKING MY WAYS. Generally, I eat no more than two hot dogs per year. One on July 4 and one in September, at the Monterey Jazz Festival. But this year, I splurged and had two at the World Cup. Even though they were bad for me. And two days ago, when Carmel’s Devendorf Park had its annual 4th of July party, I naturally had to have one of them there, as well. Actually, it was a Polish Dog, with sauerkraut. Courtesy of the Carmel Lions. Who sponsored the affair, and sold them for a nominal fee, which included chips and a drink. While one listened to the Monterey Pops Orchestra, its tubas, trombones, and pipers, along with many other forms of entertainment.

Devendorf Park is full of bushes, lawns, restrooms, benches, a Coy pond and camaraderie. It also covers a small city block. Sits at the edge of Carmel-by-the-Sea, and hosts dozens of festivities and joyful occasions every year. With a TON of guests. None more than Saturday’s 4th of July Celebration. After all, this was the 250th anniversary of our country.

I am always amazed at the number of children who find themselves at the park. Happy. Giggling. Playing. Eating. And decked out in red, white and blue. As are many attendees. And their knapsacks, strollers, hats and leashed dogs. Except for the Carmel Lions, who come in their bright yellow vests, loaded with colorful pins and ribbons.

And in the afternoon, I went to another party. A pot luck, full of food, drink, merriment and friends. Just up the street. And an 8 X 10 Ft. American Flag, hanging from the wall. And a bartender, who poured us appropriate concoctions. In any event, the entire day was lovely. And worthy of a 250 year anniversary. Including a little sun. Though not a lot. But eventually, all things come to a close. And so, in the evening, I finally went home. Just in time to watch fireworks on TV. While feeling Fat. Sassy. And Spoiled. Finis.