PUBLISHER’S NOTE: I first posted a version of this blog way back in July of 2014. I always think about this one I wrote when I am planning a blog post for the Independence Day holiday. I have reposted it several times since, and I am doing so again but with a few new updates. I hope you also have some wonderful 4th of July family memories, or perhaps you will create an incredible one this year for you and your family! Enjoy it and please remember that “The Red Ones are the BEST!”
Family Law Attorney Chip Mues Recalls A Remarkable 4th of July Family Vacation Set In Maine
It seemed appropriate that I should write something for the family law blog geared towards the “Birthday of America “. In the past, I liked to reflect upon the holidays and tried to find some correlation between the specific holiday and my family law practice. Not always an easy task without becoming repetitive in discussing how to celebrate the day in the aftermath of a traumatic divorce. So, as I pondered possible themes, I considered offering a bit of a twist on “Independence Day “. Or, perhaps, writing a patriotic post about America and the importance of family values. In the end, I decided to go in a different direction.
As I think about this holiday, it brings back many fabulous 4th of July family memories. As a child, it was in my top two or three favorite yearly holidays. I loved that it was the official start of summer and school was over. Warm weather was here and a family vacation was near. Having grown up in New Jersey, I loved cookouts with family, seeing friends at the pool, or even better, going “down the shore “. Riding the waves, salt water taffy, the boardwalk, and of course, sunburn.
I remember fireworks galore exploding in ways that were not safe in light of today’s standards. And I mean having to smack out live embers which landed in your hair or your lap. Oh, what memories…So you ask, what does the title of this post have to do with anything? Well, I will tell you. Now the greatest 4th of July family memory for our family is synonymous with one particular Independence Day. Not at the Jersey Shore this time, but a trip to another of my childhood favorites – North Waterford, Maine, and the Five Kezar Lakes. Frog gigging, fishing, bonfires, wiffle ball. fresh lobsters, water skiing and swimming in the pristine, crystal-clear lakes. Absolutely remarkable! It is almost as pristine today as it was when I was a kid 55+ years ago!
Cherishing 4th of July in Maine
While the serene natural pine tree-filled Maine environment is remarkable, it did not compare to the events of this one particular 4th of July evening. My sons were probably 11 and 12 years old at the time. After a great day outdoors with our family, cousins, and my Aunt and Uncle, we drove to the Oxford Plains Speedway in Oxford, Maine. Not our family’s usual activity, but what the heck. We are always up for something new especially if it has a local flair. As I recall, Shirley Muldowney raced in her jet-propelled pink dragster against “Big Daddy ” Don Garlits that night. The intense heat generated from those dragsters could be felt throughout the grandstands! After that we then experienced the thrill of a sensational high-impact, collision-filled demolition derby. But the highlight of the night was to follow.
We were immediately engulfed with fireworks literally exploding right on top of us launched from the infield of the speedway! You had to lie down in the bleachers to see the blasts since they were right over your head. The announcer then proceeded to give a “play by play ” for each firework shot in the air, repeatedly exclaiming over the loudspeaker with his distinctive Maine accent, “the red ones are the best! ” How right he was! To this day, my sons always repeat the story about the speedway fireworks every time they see any fireworks and appropriately exclaim in tribute “The red ones are the BEST! ” That is so funny and heartwarming to hear come from their mouths 40+ years later!
Fireworks, Maine And Aunt Marion – The Family Memories Of 4th Of July
Thinking about this wonderful memory of Maine and Independence Day not only reminds me of that spectacular firework display but of the close relationship I enjoyed with my Aunt Marion, who lived in Maine for years before she passed away. She was a talented, feisty and independent lady, much like her sister, my Mom. While employed, my Aunt was, among other things, a passionate librarian who had a love for well-written children’s books. She enjoyed reading them to all the kids. So in honor of her I say “Happy 4th of July, Aunt Marion and to all my Cousins and family for all those wonderful memories in Maine! ”
Also, feeling that I must deliver some valuable information to our family law blog readers rather than just sharing my own memories, and as a tribute to my librarian Aunt, please click here to see a wonderful list of children’s books written about the 4th of July for preschoolers. Here is a link to a great list curated by PBS.
Happy 4th of July everyone! May it be truly a memorable one!
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Attorney Robert “Chip” Mues has been focusing his legal practice throughout Southwest Ohio primarily in divorce and family law matters since 1978. Chip is passionate about family law and has proudly published the Ohio Family Law Blog since 2007. In addition, he is the managing partner of Holzfaster, Cecil, McKnight & Mues. To learn more about him or the law firm, visit the firm’s website at www.hcmmlaw.com. Appointments are available in person, over the phone or by Zoom. Call us at 937 293-2141.
