I've never done much as far as decorating for the little celebratory days, like the 4th. I decided to give it a try. A bit of my "quick, let's throw something together, boys, because tomorrow's the day" decor.
Found the subway art on pinterest. The white chimneys are from Gold Canyon. The red glass is something from mom. Sadly, I don't remember the story. Mom, if you are reading, please refresh my memory!
The star-studded candle holder is from Gold Canyon, too (it's called the Changing Seasons candle holder, just in case you're interested). The other things were quickly made in my craft room and throw-togethers. Maybe next year I'll get the cloth ironed. Maybe not...
The back patio this year is a mess. So many things I wanted to do with it and it just didn't happen. I did manage to fill a couple of pots with patriotic colors, thanks to the help of JoJo and Mouse. We planted these before Memorial Day. And they haven't died yet due to the heat! Although they did get pretty close to it once or twice. I think I could hear their sighs of relief and thank-you when I drowned them with water from the hose. Just before turning it on the boys!
A favorite turtle from my mom. He look so cute sitting with the potted plants. I love the simple grin on his face.
Hubby will grill steak tonight for supper. I just got it in its marinade. What a delicious marinade it is! A good friend shared it with me years ago and we've been enjoying it on chicken and steak ever since. Also on the menu: a mix of salad greens, some of which will be from my garden (!); baked beans; french herb bread from the bread machine. The phrase "as American as apple pie" popped into my head this morning. So I thought it would be appropriate to bake an apple pie to enjoy as well. I decided this would become a new tradition for our family. Any tradition that fills the tummys of my guys is a good tradition!
Hubs and the Boyos just returned from their second visit to the local firework stand in as many days. That is an old tradition. Every year they stock up on noise makers and they giggle and run and attempt to blow up unwanted toys. I enjoy the fun they have. As a kid I remember having snaps and black snakes once in a while. Sparklers were a yearly tradition, as I think they are for everyone. But actually setting off firecrackers was something my brother and I never did as kids. Maybe it was not permitted in our neighborhood. That's a possibility! I do remember seeing big nighttime displays with family or friends. At least they seemed big. Everything seems big when you're a kid, though, doesn't it? Whatever the tradition, it's always fun.
We talked around the lunch table today about celebrating the 4th. The little boys did not know that our country is the only one to celebrate the 4th of July. What a good teaching opportunity! They found it kind of cool. Happy Birthday to the US of A!
