Once again this year, you and I were together – just the two of us – as we drove from the beach house to Congdon’s on the Fourth of July.  As usual, your mind was busy thinking amazing, sometimes darn funny, thoughts.  Here’s what I captured as I (carefully) drove along the ocean, to the best donut place in the world, and back:

Driving from beach house to Congdon’s

Can you remove the back of the car seat? It annoys me.

I wonder, if you live on the other side (of the road), how you can get right on the beach.

A lot of people have their decorations out.

One time there was a storm and the waves hit our car.

Somebody has the flag so low it’s touching the ground.

I’m excited for the fourth of July fireworks tonight. That’s like the best part.

I don’t know why the water is so cold if the sun is pointing right at it.

This is a long beach!

Some people are walking.

Is that the arcade right there?  Can you take me there sometimes?

The water is higher here because it’s high tide; the water is lower at low tide.

Do you think it will be low tide when we get back? do you have the tide thing-y?

There are so many people waiting to get Congdon’s. I told you it’s going to be a long wait.

There was a dragonfly right by my window.

I think the last time there were, like, 30 people at the beach for the Fourth of July.

Arriving at Congdon’s; waiting in the drive through line

(looking at the Congdon’s donut “people” sign) They have donut heads but a human body. It’s kind of weird.  Half donut; half human.  They eat themselves for lunch!

It’s going to be our turn next!

I don’t miss school that much because I’m happy we have a break.

I’m going to put my window up because there are bugs outside.

How do you get to eat a donut if you work here?

Can I hold the box? I’m smelling the box!!

Riding back to the beach house

They have a series of restaurants in this area.

what time do people start coming over?

(driving by the insurance building with the lighthouse on top) – Is that the lighthouse that shines a light at night?

(I mention Nubble Light in York).  You say “It’s in New York?”

I just want to eat these so bad; my mouth is watering!

The sea breeze is cold because it blows over the area.

I talk about retiring soon – you said “Did you get tired?”

(I mention how the early morning sun makes it look like diamonds on the water) –  Yeah it does.

I’ll carry the box if you can carry the other stuff.

Happy Fourth of July Jack!  I’ll always remember these special conversations on my favorite day of the year.  When you’re bigger, I hope you read them and see why you were (and always will be) so special.