4th of July {2013}

“The secret of happiness is freedom, the secret of freedom is courage.” – Carrie Jones

Thank you to all of those protecting our freedom!!

—

For the past four years we’ve spent the 4th of July with our friends in their home in Malibu. However, earlier this year our friends sold their home.

So we knew ahead of time that we would need to make new plans.

My friend Torrie mentioned that her city gets a head start on the holiday with its Annual 3rd of July Fireworks Extravaganza at the park.

Upon RSVPing, I searched Pinterest for fun 4th of July food ideas to bring to our picnic at the park.

First I made a simple fruit salad that included strawberries, watermelon and blueberries.

(Original pin can be found here.)

Then I made some festive bark.

(Original pin can be found here.)

I placed Oreo’s and pretzels on a baking sheet, poured melted white chocolate and sprinkled red and blue sprinkles. Placed it in he freezer for a bit and then broke it into pieces.

My friends and our tots.

My Family!

Sarah and I with our drinks :)

The night was really fun! Thanks for organizing Torrie!

We didn’t get home until 10:30 pm, which is way past Sarah’s bed time, but she seemed to handle the evening really well.

However, at 1 am Sarah woke up screaming. After a while of calming her down and even trying to sleep with her in our bed, I knew the next day would be a slow morning.

We spent the majority of our 4th of July in the pool! Later in the evening we had a BBQ at home. Hubby’s sister, Rhonda, joined us for the afternoon activities.

While hubby and Sarah where in the pool in the morning (and again after nap), I was busy in the kitchen prepping some more Pinterest recipes.

To start the festivities, I made a batch of Sangria. This drink was extra pool side.

(Red wine, sprite and some sliced fruit)

For dessert I made Watermelon Flavored Cake.

(Original pin can be found here.)

For more 4th of July recipes visit my Pinterest page.

Hope you had a wonderful 4th of July! Here is to new traditions!