July 4th Ideas

When I was a child, each year I looked forward to the annual 4th of July block party. I remember how exciting it was to be out way past my bedtime, eat loads of fun food, and play flashlight tag through the neighborhood streets.

Fourth of July is a fun-filled day for my family. I have three small children under the age of 6, and they all love berries. Summer is the peak season for blueberries and strawberries, which means it is the perfect time to find them at seasonal low prices. So, we start our Fourth of July celebration with Eggo Waffles topped with flag colors: white whipped cream, fresh blueberries and ripe strawberries.

When I was a kid, I spent my summers shoeless and with little else than a bathing suit and t-shirt, playing at the beach until sunset. I try to make my children's summers be as carefree and unscheduled as I remember mine. We schedule very little once school is out, and live in the moment, drifting between the pool and the playground. More often than not, friends come over, and we end the day with spontaneous cookouts and parties, easy socializing for the whole family.

The summer is my favorite season to entertain. I love having people over during the summertime because throwing a party in the summer is cheap and easy. Here are a few ways to take the heat off your wallet when throwing a summer party.