Family, Food and Fireworks - Happy 4th of July!
Nothing says summertime like an awesome 4th of July party with family, food and fireworks. While I thought I would be throwing a patriotic party in my new home with all of our friends, we learned about a month ago that is not going to happen. Like the rest of 2020 things have not gone as planned. Life happens and apparently it takes a ridiculously long time to build a house. The delayed construction of our home mixed with all the social distancing requirements have left us needing to reconsider our Independence Day plans.
We have enjoyed many fun-filled 4ths over the years but there is one that comes up every time we talk about our favorite recently.
A couple years ago my husband and I decided to take our two kids to the nation’s capital for a fun learning trip. Timing was working out so that we would be there to celebrate the 4th of July and we could not think of a better place to celebrate our nation than in Washington D.C. on its birthday. It is usually very hot in D.C. in early July and that year was no exception whatsoever. We took our umbrellas for shade and got to the National Mall early afternoon to grab the perfect spot under the Washington Monument overlooking the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. It was such a cool experience to see thousands of people from all walks of life coming together for one big patriotic party. The fireworks show was orchestrated to music and was phenomenal. If you ever have the opportunity to go, I highly recommend it. Unfortunately, this year travel is not going to be an option for many of us. The next best thing may be to tour Washington D.C. virtually from your climate-controlled home. If we are finding the positives in our current distanced situation can we appreciate all the things we can now experience virtually? You can also take virtual tours of many of D.C.’s museums. This could be a fun way to create memories from home while learning a bit about history.
Family
This year we will be making the most of our last 4th of July in our temporary living space. My family has grown fond of anything that takes us out of our small living quarters. During the last year or so we have developed a love for outdoor games. This coming weekend we are sure to throw horseshoes and play many games of cornhole in the most competitive way possible of course. With fewer activities on the calendar this year it’s the perfect time to focus on growing family traditions.
If you do not have outdoor games on hand, mask up, head to your local sporting goods store and find the outdoor play aisle. I am always so impressed by the variety of games offered. If you are not interested in going to public places right now, I get that. You could always get creative and make your own at home games, go for a bike ride or head to your family’s favorite swimming hole.
Food
With social gatherings limited to just a handful of people the meal planning is so easy! Again, I am finding the positive! The 4th of July would not be complete without at least one meal prepared on the grill. In our house my husband is the grill master, so I let him choose the main course. Typically, he chooses a juicy steak or burger. I have just a couple staple requests for the menu- Stuffed jalapenos and watermelon.
Stuffed jalapenos are my favorite appetizers. The recipe is easy and a crowd pleaser every time we make them and watermelon is a must at any summer cookout.
Fireworks
While I tend to prefer leaving the exploding of things to the professionals, I am outnumbered in my house by people who enjoy living life on the edge. So, every year we spend our hard-earned money on fireworks for them to burn up when night falls. This is justified by them creating lasting childhood memories. Many public displays are either canceled or have limited attendance guidelines this year. I did a little research and learned that some cities are still planning to put on a show and televise it on major networks. Macy’s Fourth of July Spectacular has been reimagined for the year and is one of the shows you can catch on TV.
No matter how you plan to celebrate this year we wish you a safe healthy and happy 4th of July while enjoying your own version of family, food and fireworks.
With Love and Appreciation,
Kim
Sticky Toffee Director of Product Development
