The wife and I live in a semi-suburban area in a southern town, but we have lots of woods to the north or our house. Last night, July 4, we were treated to a fireworks display we haven't seen in quite a long time. Two churches to our south and east of us were holding Independence Day outdoor services that ended with competing professional fireworks displays... and neighbors al around us and across a valley to the north had invested heavily in some spectacular fireworks.

It all ended around 11pm; but we were both struck by the enthusiasm and overtly patriotic displays. At times it seemed like all the pent-up frustration of last year's lockdowns were coming out. It was something to behold.

So, with the smell of gunpowder in the air, at least around here, it seems that Patriotism is once again fashionable... or something.

Anyone else experience that last night?