The 4th of July is one of my favorite holidays. Really. I love Christmas, of course, and Halloween is loads of fun. Thanksgiving is loads of yum, but the 4th of July is just bright gleaming cheer in my book. I love everything about it. The hot weather, the barbeque's, the red, white and blue, the fireworks and patriotism. It is simply grand. The pinnacle of summer. To help you put some fun in your 4th I have compiled a list of resources to boost your holiday bang.
Lessons:
First, a little Americana, history, and a few little ditties for lyrical learning.
Crafts and Decorations:
Next, check out these adorable free to download crafts from Skip to My Lou.
Here's a free 4th of July Craft and Recipe ebook loaded with goodies
Make a patriotic hanging star from Kinderart (all ages).
Keep your cool with this patriotic flag fan.
Here are some easy fold and snip stars...great for decorating, or a project to keep kids busy while you rustle up the grub.
Sparkling Shakers. We made the last year and the kids enjoyed them.
Food:
And what to eat? Can't go wrong with ribs, potato salad, and slaw. For dessert, how about gingered blueberry shortcake or almond cheesecake tart?
And to top is all off, here's a recipe for Red, White and Blue Cookies:
Ingredients:
* 1 c butter
* 1 Egg white -- whipped
* 2 t Pure vanilla extract
* 2 1/2 c Unbleached flour
* 1 1/2 c sugar
* 1 1/2 t baking powder
* 1 t Red food coloring
* 1 t Blue food coloring
Method:
Preheat oven to 350. In a mixing bowl, combine butter, egg white, and vanilla extract.In a separate bowl, combine flour, sugar, and baking powder. Mix wet ingredients with dry until just moistened. Divide cookie dough into three equal portions. Tint 1 portion with the red food coloring; and another portion with the blue food coloring. Mix throughly. Form each portion into long bars and stack bars on top of each other using alternating colors (red, white, blue). Wrap dough stack in waxed paper and place in the refrigerator for about an hour. Cut cookies into 1/4" thick bars. Place on greased baking sheet and bake for 10 to 12 minutes.
Want even more?! Check out my post from last July 4th for extra goodies, or my post from Flag Day if you missed it.
Enjoy!
WIll have to try us some of those cookies!!! Thanks for all the tips!
my best wishes
I respect people who love their Country and share that joy. You spread the love over the earth.
I love America deeply and profoundly as well. I'm celebrating this 4th with a scout flag ceremony in the AM followed by a parade in town then a TEA party and finally the evening fire works. It should be a great day!
Look at all the information you have put together. Thanks!
I would say the 4th of July is one of my favorite summer holiday's for sure and to remembering our freedom is also a good reason to celebrate.
I think it is great how different holidays are more close to peoples hearts than others. I enjoy the Fourth as well...Thanksgiving is still my #1, but the Fourth is so very special in it's own way too.
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