On July 4th, the weather forecast showed a zero chance for rain as I headed out with the kids. Lydia was having me answer a series of questions starting with “How many steps does it take to put an elephant in the refrigerator (three) and ending with “How many steps does it take to put the elephant in the refrigerator with the kangaroo (I won’t spoil it for you). Elisa and Aidan were chatting excitedly as I asked Aidan’s help as booked a car via Uber.

We were going to a Fourth of July BBQ in a hutong which sounded pretty awesome. The 4th isn’t celebrated here with the exception of American expats. Certainly no fireworks. This year the 4th landed on a Saturday meaning we could do something on the actual 4th. My first year in China I remember going to a rooftop BBQ an American friend snagged tickets for. Since then, I don’t remember any events. I’m sure I took kids to American style restaurants in the past to honor the day but nothing is clear.

We got our Uber and it was a short 10 RMB (about $1.60 USD) 15 minute ride to the hutong. I really like hutongs even knowing that many of the non restored ones are quite run down. They are busy in their own way but the small alleys take one away from the bustle of the city. Birds chirp, trees rustle, kids tear, merchants rattle.

Upon arrival, the BBQ, it must be said, was underwhelming. It was at a small tap room that I’ve been known the frequent every other week. The beer and burgers are amazing. The kids and I sat outside which normally hosts the patrons who smoke. I ordered hot dogs, potato salad, and corn on the cob. I skipped on the beer, as good as it is. I was expecting a couple of friends but they got tied up. Lydia was halfway through her hot dog when she asked for another. I was pleased. All the kids ate well, me and Aidan in Warrior shirts. Elisa asking for more corn on the cobb.

Without much going on in the hutong -- a few smokers lingering, the BBQ a small table, folks inside having beer with their dogs, we left.

As we headed east down the hutong and towards the main street where we could catch a taxi it started to rain. Lightly. I broke out the umbrellas and we kept going.