Friends! We have less than two days of work before the long holiday weekend. I’m tempted to ask for an “Amen!” here, but I’ll refrain.

So, who’s got plans? And can I crash them? I’m considering spending the long weekend holed up indoors watching a marathon of “Parks and Recreation” — it’d be a nice palate cleanser after finishing (the very good) “Game of Thrones.” (Reason No. 1 for needing a palate cleanser? Wading through HBO’s annoying formula of tossing boobs into every show whether the plot and/or scene warrants it or not.)

The “Parks and Rec” marathon idea sounds especially fun after watching this hilarious gag reel (please be advised that it’s NSFW unless you turn the volume way down or work here with me at the Gazette):



But you’re not all would-be recluses with a penchant for salty language. And some of these Fourth of July events are tempting even me to crawl out from my TV-lit hidey-hole.

First up, a guided evening hike to search for fireflies. Martin Park Nature Center is leading the hike — called Ma Nature’s Fireworks — this Sunday. The hike sets off at 8 p.m., and registration is limited (and $2). Led by former park naturalist and all-around smart guy Neil Garrison, the tour will teach about the biology of fireflies while the hikers keep an eye out for the glowing beasties.

That sounds perfect, right? I may just have to borrow someone’s kid so I can attend without looking like a creeper. Call 755-0676 for more info or to register.

The following day (that’d be July 4, for those playing at home), the Crystal Bridge at the newly renovated Myriad Botanical Gardens will offer free admission. This is a great opportunity to explore both the gardens and the tropical conservatory, which both got a major face-lift.