The Fourth of July has always been my favorite holiday. Other kids liked their birthday, or Christmas for toys, but I always liked the warm sun, swimming and fireworks.

As an adult, I’ve tried to expand the celebration to more than one day — preferably make a full weekend out it. 

This year, (I’m writing this on July 3) we’re going north to Rhinelander to do some fishing and boating. Baby Vivian has never been on a boat before, nor seen a fish. Gabe, who is now 8, has really wanted to get into fishing — his grandpas like to fish, as does his uncle. He took a fishing class in summer school just to prepare for this weekend excursion to Hodag Country.

Perla loves going up to the lake. She’s a little fisherman herself and one weekend a few summers ago caught over 100 fish “and two bass, Dad!” She also loves to kayak and paddleboard and explore “the island.”

I love seeing the smiles that come when the electronics are set down and nature is enjoyed. A ride on the boat? Always fun, even when a storm abruptly dumps water on us from across the lake. No need ducking under the umbrellas — it’s a lake and we’re in our swimsuits. 

I love fishing, feeling the splashes of water that comes with the lake, hearing the loons and sitting around a bon fire. I love sitting on the pier at dusk and at dawn, enjoying an oatmeal coffee stout for breakfast. 

I love the heat of the day, the late sunsets and the ability to step away from the daily grind of the office.

I enjoy being surrounded by family — my own kids and wife, my parents and when time permits my siblings and their families. 

And then of course, the fireworks. And the food. Nothing is more American than watching fireworks and eating food on a warm summer night, in my opinion. I’ll even wear my USA flag swim shorts to add to the patriotism.

— Adam Krebs is a reporter for the Times and is so patriotic, he shares a birthday with the American Flag and President Donald Trump. He can be reached at akrebs@themonroetimes.net.