Fourth of July Five

I borrowed this from my friend, Emilie, who in turn borrowed it from The RevGals.......

1) Do you celebrate 4th of July (or some other holiday representing independence?)
Normally, my family has always celebrated the 4th of July. We always spent it with my mom's extended family at her aunt Jessie and uncle Bert's cabin on Lake Amnicon, just outside of Superior, WI. For as long as I can remember, we spent the day out there, the older men grilling, playing volleyball, swimming, re-meeting distant cousins and getting to know them. Great-Aunt Jessie and Great-Uncle Bert sold their cabin last year, so last year was the first year we had no 4th celebration to count on. My cousin got married last year on July 2nd, right here in Lakeville ironically, and so Chris and I had the family over on the 3rd for a Mini-GTG. This year, Chris and I will spend the 4th together, w/the furkids.
2) When was the first time you felt independent, if ever?
I think when I finally moved out on my own, at age 22, down to the twin cities. I had lived at home all through college, which was probably not the best idea looking back (but it saved me $$$). When I graduated college, I had to find a job and the first job offer I got down in White Bear Lake, I took. I lived with my friend Natasha's sister, Aleks, for a year, then moved out and lived alone for a few years.
3) If you're hosting a cookout, what's on the grill?
Well, we're not this year, but if we were most likely we'd be grilling burgers and brats, that seems to be the standby. We may grill out at Corey and Jill's on Sunday, and I think that is what we'll be having, maybe some chicken or salmon as well.
4) Strawberry Shortcake -- biscuit or sponge cake? Discuss.
Well, if I were younger, I'd say Strawberry Shortcake. Now I'd say sponge cake for the lightness and add some strawberries and whipped cream (preferably Reddi Whip) on top.
5) Fireworks -- best and worst experience
The best is easy. I was around 10 or 11 and my aunt was dating my now deceased Uncle Don. Don was the assistant Fire Chief in Duluth, and we got to sit on top, on the roof, of Fire Station #1 in Downtown Duluth and had a perfect view of the fireworks over the Duluth Harbor. The worst. I honestly can't remember any "bad" experiences, but now that poor Treble is so traumatized by any type of fireworks, I find myself trying to avoid fireworks of any kind. (*Treble even got his own meds at Target the other day, and I, for some reason, find it higly amusing that is says: Treble "K9" Campbell on his prescription bottle. So far, we haven't gave him any meds, yet, but I have a feeling once the parties get going this weekend, our boy is going to be needing some anti-anxiety help :( *)

On another note, I just got home from treating myself to an hour massage and a spur-of-the-moment Pedicure (*sigh, this is what summer is all about!*), so I'm off to eat some lunch and spend some more quality time cuddling my fur kids.