I understand the fireworks impulse, really I do. No matter what the local laws are, people like bright, shiny things. And they like blowing stuff up. So, fireworks, which combine the two, are a natural. Even if neighborhood kids ignore all rational safety precautions when they set off fireworks in the street in front of my house (well, almost in front of my house). At least there's been enough rain in the past few days that they're unlikely to set vegetation or structures on fire (unlike in some parts of the country).

But what I will never understand is the impulse to set off fireworks before the sun has even set, at least an hour and a half before it will be possible to see and enjoy the bright and shiny. Can anyone explain this to me. (And, no, it's not the same as sneaking downstairs to open your Christmas presents before everyone else gets up.)