Short, quick bursts thrum through the night, punctuated by longer, deeper blasts that shiver all the way down to my toes. The steamy July air crackles with energy and excitement as anticipation of the grand finale hums through every nerve ending.  The blasts come closer and closer together, until at last a glorious explosion of shuddering brilliance illuminates all, leaving us shaking and filled with breathless wonder.

And then we decide to go watch the fireworks.