Fourth of July Fun

I love America and I love decorating for and celebrating the Fourth of July with friends each year. It really launches summer for me. For this table, a table topper square was constructed from a sparkling fireworks fabric to highlight a Fourth of July theme.

Easy-To-Make Fourth of July Cherry Pie: Fill a prepared pie shell with Comstock Cherry Pie Filling. With a second pie shell, cut out star shapes in varying sizes. Place them all over the top leaving room for the red cherries to show. Sprinkle the stars with red colored sugar and bake the pie according to directions. A decorative fireworks pick was inserted to add the finishing touch.

A luncheon table was set for family members utilizing royal blue bandanas purchased at Michael's for under $2.00 each. Melamine star plates were purchased from Target. American flags can be purchased at any party supply store or Michael's. The rattan stars and Margarita glasses used for ice cream and cooked peaches were purchased from Pier 1. Patriotic napkins can be purchased at your grocery store, party store, or department stores like Target. Colored votives were purchased at Michael's. Azalea plant was purchased very inexpensively.

Decorative glass vases are very popular now and these added the perfect touch I wanted for drama. American flags and fireworks sprays were added to show some pizazz.

Vanilla ice cream and baked peaches topped with cinnamon were served in Margarita glasses and adorned with an American flag pick.

For this party, along with the dessert, barbecue ribs were served with Best Foods Mayonnaise's recipe of Classic Potato Salad. My mom's barbecue baked beans, (yum!), baked corn on the cob, (so great because it doesn't get soggy!) Bake in a casserole dish for 30 minutes at 325 degrees. Add whatever spices you like. Everyone always comments about how good it tastes this way. Additionally, watermelon slices were served with blueberries and ice. A simple three ingredient Cole slaw was served. Purchase two bags of green and purple cabbage mixed with shredded carrots; add a mixture of 1/2 cup vinegar and 1/2 cup sugar. Chill and serve. Sooooooo good!

Here's my mom's recipe for barbecue beans:

Jeannette's Baked Beans

Place 2 large cans of B & M Baked beans in a bowl.
Add 1/2 chopped onion
1 Teaspoon Mustard
3 Tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
1 1/2 Cups Hot & Spicy Ketchup
2 to 3 handfuls of brown sugar.

Place the mixed ingredients in a buttered 13 X 9 inch casserole dish and cover with foil.
Bake at 275 degrees for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 45 minutes.

I'd love to hear your comments on how you celebrate the Fourth of July.