July 4, 2014: Yes, yes, it’s also Independence Day here in America. But let’s set that aside for a moment, as a courtesy to the rest of the world. Today is National Spareribs Day, which apparently (according to my husband) aren’t as good as baby back ribs. I’m not a rib person myself; the few times I’ve had them, it’s just way too messy. Give me a pile of pulled pork instead, slathered in BBQ sauce, which I can eat with a fork instead of my hands.

Today is also Country Music Day, and while I can listen to a little bit of everything, I’m not a big fan of country. My day job requires me to listen to a LOT of bands and songs, and it’s fascinating to watch the hack and cliché topics come out. If I were going to write a modern-day, upbeat country song, it would contain the following: a day on a pontoon boat, partying and not being too worried about catching fish, followed by a trip in my truck out to a party at a bonfire. Both vehicles would have a 12-pack of beer in the cooler. At the bonfire, my girl would dance in her white sundress and cowboy boots. Seriously, country artists. ENOUGH WITH THE WHITE SUNDRESSES.