By DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills
The 4th of July birthday of America celebration will soon be here. This year it’s on a Sunday. Many working Americans may have a day off extending the weekend, but how can those people relax and plan a special event at the same time?
You’re right! It’s next to impossible. To help you have a grand time with family, friends, or simply an intimate get-together with a few neighbors, I explored a lot of online sites and this cheat sheet seems the easiest and most fun!
- Sleep in, then enjoy a pancake breakfast. Top those sweet delights with raspberries, strawberries, and blueberries. Add a generous dollop of whipped cream for the true red, white, and blue theme. Serve on 4th of July paper plates with napkins to match.
- Many areas host a parade, some within walking distance. Dress in your favorite patriotic outfit. Don’t forget to wave a flag.
- Take a walk in a shaded area with family and friends. Discuss what it would have been like to live during the Revolutionary War. Would you want to have been a part of the war effort? Why or why not?
- Invite friends to a potluck cookout. All you need do is assign food choices. Make sure food choices match the festive occasion. Choose a playlist of patriotic songs to play during the event. Add red, white, and blue balloons or stuff clear ones with patriotic stars and you’re celebrating in style.
- Attend a fireworks show. Young and old love the colorful display. Don’t forget portable chairs!
- Crafts to show your patriotic spirit are another way of enjoying each other and having fun. Pinterest is my favorite go-to website for creative ideas: Crafts for all ages: https://bit.ly/3oqeIRy
Crafts for kids: https://bit.ly/3hsuqdI
Crafts that are easy: https://bit.ly/3btjGYL - Anything water-related works—beach, swimming, water skiing, canoeing, fishing, raft floating down a lazy river, a backyard water park with sprinklers, and anything else you can think of that’s wet.
- Plan a red, white, and blue picnic. While preparing the food might be a chore, opt for carryout and totally appreciate the day.
- Some people may be nervous about spending time in crowds. Here is a website that offers amazing ideas on how to celebrate the holiday virtually. https://bit.ly/3on87aN
- Or simply do nothing and watch patriotic shows, parades, read, or take a nap. If you choose a nap, make sure it’s with a patriotic blanket.
- This is my favorite YouTube presentation of the history of The Star
Spangled Banner. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YaxGNQE5ZLA
How you spend the 4th of July is up to you. Enjoy the holiday and take a moment to thank the courageous men and women who helped us begin a nation of democracy.
How are you celebrating the 4th?
