The Island is made for July 4th – from wide-open and fully-free public beaches, to waterfront restaurants for fireworks viewing.  The birds love it because there is a plethora of free food thrown in the air, or just left behind by the beachcombers.  The fishermen love it because there is an extra-long weekend to indulge in their passion.  My friends and family love it because it means the traditional gathering at Diamond Beach.  River floating, barbecuing, watching the kids splashing in the pool, and general commiserating under the cabana continued throughout the day.  The swim-up bar opened for the first time this year, and we contributed to their continued success (hopefully:)  Best of all, was the time to catch up with the Clear Lake folks, hugging the new babies, floating with the toddlers, and planning for the next great DB gathering!