Happy Fourth of July!

Be kind to dogs today, patriots. Celebrate our national birthday the quiet, peaceful way…by drawing fireworks in sidewalk chalk!

Out with the bang!

It’s never too early for fireworks!

Happy Fourth of July!

Most fireworks on the Fourth happen at night. And they’re EXTREMELY NOISY. It’s fun to stay out late, and it can be fun to be blasted by bangs. But it’s also fun to take matters into your own hands and create your own fireworks schedule, and here’s one easy way to do it in broad daylight.

All you need is a sidewalk or driveway and plenty of sidewalk chalk. Yes, the big stuff!

There’s one more thing you need. A little imagination. And voilà! Explosions of colorful fireworks. Add your own sound effects, and have a Happy Fourth of July!

Happy Floral Fourth of July!

BANG!

What is that? The sound of fireworks! I love the flash and color of a pyrotechnic display. But last year I witnessed the unhappy effect of all the noise and fuss on the sensitive ears of my brother’s poor dog. Dugan was practically catatonic with fear and dread. Most dogs (and some humans) agree: noise-wise, fireworks are a drag.

Luckily, there’s another kind of fireworks. Quiet, quiet varieties. And they can be found right in your own garden. This marigold, for instance, gives any Fourth firework a run for its splendor.

And this Pink Ice cluster certainly pops without a bang.

A Gerbera daisy finale is a spectacular sight to behold.

So, if you want to give your ears a break (and your doggy’s, too) this year, grab some scissors, head out into the garden, and bring the fireworks indoors this year. Happy Fourth of July, everyone!