Independence Day Houseboat Party 2009 - 4

Among the houseboat residents at Mission Creek who had generously invited neighbours and friends to share in their July 4 celebrations were Glendora and Bob - see previous blogs

They have been living on a houseboat in the community for 30 years. Surveying the activities from beneath a blue umbrella, Glendora said

happily, ''The party is very well attended.'

Further down the bank, one of her neighbours, Amy, was spending the afternoon in the shade of a tree, spinning and weaving. What did she think of Independence Day?

'Dissent is not unpatriotic,' she said enigmatically, before disappearing to refill her plate.



















Someone who didn't voice an opinion at all, but was very much enjoying herself, was Luce, a beautiful one-year-old Bernese Mountain Dog.

Dad and mum, Greg and Courtney, were guests at the party with their baby twins, Jonathan and Sophia.

'It's just been fun, it's a good get-together,' said Greg.

A great summing up of the afternoon's festivities came from Mike. Lounging cheerfully between Carla and Glenn, he said,

'This is what our forefathers meant for Independence Day: good times, good food, a good day!'

Independence Day Houseboat Party 2009 - 3

'I think the holiday has lost its original purpose, it's more about gathering with family and friends. The value has changed, especially in the time of sketchy, low-ball politics,' said Jessica.

She was picnic-ing with sister Bianca and friend, Ruthie, celebrating America's birthday of July 4 amongst the houseboat community at Mission Creek - see previous blogs

It was a comment borne out by most of the other party-goers who spoke of their appreciation of having a day with their friends and neighbours without referring to the history of the occasion, freedom and liberty.

Jessica and Bianca are fifth-generation San Franciscans and all three girls are friends of the houseboaters. Ruthie had a choice of parties to go to, but she chose this one.

'It's just the weather by the creek,' she said, recalling past San Franciscan parties in the fog. 'This one's the most mellow party.'

All around, people were spread out on blankets

on the grass or on seats enjoying the food. Behind her, children were splashing in a paddling pool and at the far end a band were preparing to play.

Sitting under a coloured umbrella was Brigid, six-year-old Camille, and Francoise, with 16-month-old Emile on his knee happily eating an ice-cream.

'It's a chance for the family to get together,' said Brigid, another true San Franciscan whose father owns a boat on the creek.

Ironically, it took a Brit to break the mould of comments about family and friends.

'I treasure my independence and freedom!' said Ruth, in red and white striped skirt and blue swimming costume. In her straw hat, white shasta daisies that she grows in her garden.

Ruth is a Londoner. 'I have been in the city since the early 70s. I emigrated on the Niew Amsterdam,' she said.

pics: Bianca, Jessica, Ruthie; the band entertaining the party; Brigid, Camille, Francois, Emile; Ruth

Independence Day Houseboat Party 2009 - 2

'Here we are in the midst of what is supposedly a very sophisticated city and this is a glimpse of small town Americana,' said Don.

'This is what we are all nostalgic for. But,' he added, 'it probably never existed! We remember things better than they really were!'

Don was standing with his wife, Judy, and friends Jerry

and Jackie, along the sunny banks of Mission Creek among the houseboat community celebrations of Independence Day - see previous blog

His comment spurred an enthusiastic response from Jerry. 'That's a very good word, Americana,' he said, reminiscing. 'It's like a 49-er game, before the games we 'tailgate.'

Both couples live opposite the houseboats and were appreciative guests at the party. 'I'm so thrilled to meet my neighbours here across the creek and share our birthday with them,' said Judy.

While Jerry, holding Wafer, their chihuahua, in his red coat who is four-years-old next month, and Jackie commented: 'It's our first 4th of July party here and we're having a wonderful time. The food's not bad either!'

They were joined by Barbara. 'It's my 4th July outfit!' she said. She gave a twirl in her red, white and blue dangling earrings and tee-shirt of cats in patriotic hats, a feline celebration of Independence Day.

'I collect these shirts. I have some from all over the world,' she said, referring specifically to cat designs.



pics: Judy, Jerry, Wafer, Jackie, Don; picnic-ing in the sun; an unknown guest peeking out from a comfy bed; Barbara in perfect 4th July attire