Happy Birthday America

Here in the United States we’ll be celebrating America’s birthday with parades, barbecues and a long weekend. A lot of us will most likely be barbecuing or “picnicking”, is that even a word? I grabbed some terrific posts from yesterday’s TFT party and added a couple of my own to share with you. I think they are nice inspirations for a barbecue, picnic or any get together this summer. The TFT party is extended through Sunday night at midnight allowing you to add more inspiration for the holiday weekend too. I will still be sharing more features at next week’s TFT too.

I’m taking a mini break with my hubby for the long holiday weekend. But, I’ll be back on Wednesday. I do hope all of you celebrating America’s birthday, a.k.a. the 4th of July, have a fun and safe holiday. Everyone who doesn’t live in the US, I hope you also have a fun and safe July 4th, no matter where you live there’s a 4th of July (wink). The Katherines Corner Shop 4th of July Sale starts Sunday night and ends Tuesday night. Please take advantage of some great savings and help to support this independent artist and small woman owned business too.

Julie Blanner shared a pasta salad that will surely be a hit at home or away. I’ve been a fan of Julie’s for quite some time, just sitting back quietly swimming in the ocean of creativity she shares on her blog. I have a couple of other blogs I enjoy that way too. I know this is a no no. Because the truth is, as a blogger we want to know you’re here reading and leaving comments. So that’s exactly what I did, I sent her some hugs on her social networks and from here on I will take the time to leave her comments on her blog too.

We don’t eat a lot red meat but hubby is all about a grilled burger and a cold beer for the 4th of July weekend. I thought you might enjoy a look back at my build a better burger post.

I love adding sautéed mushrooms to a burger. Do you have a favorite burger enhancer? Something that takes that beef patty to whole new level. You know what I mean. That little extra that causes a sudden silence until that first bite when sparklers appear, marching bands play and you wipe your chin with disbelief that some of it didn’t make it into your mouth.

I love finding creative ways to present food and the 4th of July has me using the star shaped cookie cutter for treats that aren’t cookies at all. Like this blueberry star spangled French toast, add some fresh strawberries and some whipped topping and you have a patriotic way to start the day. Or simple watermelon stars blueberries, raspberries and a touch of fresh mint ( we have mint growing by leaps and bounds in our garden) and some whipped topping and taa daa. I made it for our Father’s Day barbecue and celebration at our daughter’s farm and it was a big hit.

On the subject of treats, Growing Up Gable shared these wonderful blueberry hand pies.

They are portable and sure to be devoured quickly at any gathering.

We’ve had temperatures in the high 90’s and triple digits are forecasted for the 4th so if you are living somewhere that feels like the surface of the sun, let me remind you….. to hydrate, hydrate hydrate. Drink water and plenty of it.

Then indulge in something cold and refreshing. Maybe this Copycat Chick-fil-A peach milkshake shared by Delightful E Made.

If you are looking for a” just for grown-ups” refreshing beverage, the red, white and blue, Fireworks Pina Colada shared by Home Sweet Jones should do the trick. If you will be consuming any alcoholic drinks please drink responsibly and have a designated driver.

Also alcohol can dehydrate you so,  drink plenty of water too please.

Don’t get bugged this holiday and try Midwestern Momma’s diy citronella candles.

I have a citronella plant on our patio table it really does help.

and nothing can ruin a picnic quicker than having ants leave footprints in your potato salad.

Talcum powder has always worked well for us.

Wishing you a lovely long weekend and Happy Birthday America!