July 4th

One of my favorite holidays – The 4^th of July. I absolutely love the colors (and the fun decorations they make), the many beautiful patriotic songs, the pride of our wonderful country, and of course the food. This July 4^th, since we were in Indiana, we had a big family gathering and I volunteered to be in charge of the menu. [Of course I was so excited to put all my ideas into action!] The menu covered appetizers, main course and desserts.

Red, white and blue Chocolate dipped strawberries

 Smoked Salmon Dip from here.
(Delicious by the way)

 Sweet Corn Charlie

Fruited Cheesecake Flag from here.

Black Bean and Mango Salsa (sooo yummy)

Homemade lemonade and strawberry lemonade

 Sparkler Chocolate Dipped Pretzels

 Firework sugar cookies

Berry cupcakes

And of course I forgot to take any pictures of the delicious hamburgers and bratwursts we cooked but everything was so delicious if I do say so myself :)

And besides the food, here are the real memories...

A rare glimpse of the cookie decorating master.
(Dave's dad)

After sparklers, we went on to the lake for the fireworks. The music was blasting, the fireworks bursting and the patriotism flying sky high.

God Bless the USA.