One of my favorite things in the whole world is the annual arrival of the fireworks catalog.

Tin Mans, Moon Rockets, Black Cats. They all have a special place in my heart. When I was younger (for I was never little), I I would pour over the photos, savoring the assortments and marveling at the price tags.

We made an order once. They sent it via UPS with a phony fire-permit. Jumping Jacks and Bottle Rockets.

Anyway, my Phantom Fireworks Catalog came. I'm not ordering anything, or anything-- my neurotic dog and a general sense of amazement that I never blew my fool head off has stayed my desire to play with fireworks -- but I'm always glad to see the catalog arrive. It's a nostalgic moment for me to cruise the packs of aerial repeaters and multi-pack assortments.