The "F's" of July 4th

The drive to North Country was uneventful, if not rather time consuming.  While on the drive I wondered what the holiday would bring.  Usually, the gathering of the clan results in a wide range of tales to be told and relived.  As it was, this year fulfilled all  those expectations (and then some).

One of the highlights (you might say) was meeting "Fido" - the first "F" of the holiday.  Actually, the lovely German shepherd's name is GRAYLING - like the town, camp, and all but extinct fish.  Fabulous dog - well mannered and even tempered (good thing given the events of the holiday).

Rather than detailing all, I will highlight the memorable "F's."  In addition to meeting Grayling, the number one F would be Family.  I arrived at my Aunt's in time for the cocktail hour.  That was followed by the first of three fantastic meals served by her.  

The small kitchen saw numerous people attending to food preparation during the three days I was in attendance.  Activities in that area were time of good conversation, but focused on the meal to be served.  After eating, dishes were done and folks relaxed on the deck for more conversation.   

Speaking of the deck, another F comes to mind - Fathers.  My uncle (who is in his mid-80s now) is the father of four, all of whom were in attendance.  Three of the sons are also fathers, and each had one or more off-spring at the gathering.  The relationships between fathers and progeny can be complicated, and this holiday proved to expose some of the complexities.  I suppose some people are better prepared (at the DNA level) to be parents. 

Other holiday "F's" include floating, friends, and free time.  First, the giant float.  On July 4th the clan gathered on the Main Branch of the Au Sable for a float.  We are very fortunate that this blogger does not have photographs from the trip.  Suffice to say, when we rafted together, the person in the kayak was responsible to maintaining the "float" free from river threats.  Sometimes she was successful and, ... well, the last I saw of the "river guide" on stream was when she was hung up on a tree because the cooler she pulled had snagged a sunken log (Austin to the rescue).

Friends were waiting on the deck when the clan returned to dry land.  These were Shelia's parents (Nick and Pauline).  What fun!  Another great meal, and then off to the river for a late evening float.  Great Independence Day.

Monday threatened rain.  John and I visited Raleigh and Sparkle at Wakely Lake.  Rain poured as we returned to the cabin.  More food in the evening.


Then escape to the North Branch with an intervening stop at the former Hard Times.  Teri and I had a rousing (if not almost as long as a tennis match) game of pool.  That would be classified as more fun.  Then it was time for a quiet evening on the North Branch.  Turned in early to prepare for the marathon drive back the next morning.

Tuesday morning was quiet - shared a couple cups of coffee and some conversation with Jim (his kids were still asleep and Uncle left for a round of golf).  After a quick stop on the Main Branch for toast, coffee, and a care package, it was time to head out of town.  I grabbed my book (which kept being left behind when I returned to the North Branch each evening) and hit the road.  

That leads me to the last "F" - forest.  The trip up was peaceful, but when the pines began to dominate the landscape, my heart beat picked up.  It always does - that is the signal that the North Country is close.  On the return, I was able to admire the tall, stately lodge pines and contemplated the events of the holiday.  

Unemployment and/or lack of work affects each person in a different manner.  Some give up and seek methods to keep the reality from their consciousness.  Others keep the faith and continue in good spirits to look for a change in the situation, while others prepare for the worst case and consider options that will have long-term consequences.  Interesting to think about the different approaches from a group who share aspects of DNA. 

"Man is the only creature that refuses to be what he is."  ~Albert Camus