Red, White and Sparklers

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It’s here whether you’re ready or not! Are you ready to bust out your favorite red, white, and blue outfits and stuff yourself full of burgers, dogs, and baked beans for the 4th of July?

Surprisingly we don’t have many plans for the 4th itself this year but the weekend is beginning to look full. Years ago we used to go all out and have a big celebration at my in laws and the guys would all do their best to try and blow off a finger while letting off fireworks that many in our small town would get to enjoy.

What’s cookin’ good lookin’?

Tank / Shorts / Sandals

Not gonna lie, many times for cookouts I go the easy way out if I’m hosting. I’ll fry all the burgers, hot dogs or ribs [I’m becoming a pro at them in the instant pot] you want, but then I go a little light on the sides and you’ll find some fresh fruit to go along with the main course.

Now, if I’m heading out to your party, I won’t be such a slacker and bring only fresh cut watermelon. I may have been told a few times that I make the best Buffalo Chicken Dip ever [it’s also been my mom that says that]. I’m not sure that there’s really anything special about it, but I’ll share all my secrets with you.

Buffalo Chicken Dip

2 cans of shredded chicken breast (it’s easier and quicker this way)
2 bars of cream cheese (I often use fat-free if I can find it.)
1 cup of fat-free ranch dressing
1 cup of Frank’s Red Hot sauce
3 cups of mexican style shredded cheese
Throw it all in the crockpot and let it cook down.
Wha-la! That’s my big top-secret recipe to kick off your spicy holiday!

Another favorite that I’m sure many of my friends and family can attest to me bringing for a holiday is Corn Casserole. Anytime I make it Jayden eats half of it to himself!

Corn Casserole

2 cans of cream corn
2 cans of regular corn drained
8oz sour cream
2 boxes of Jif cornbread mix
2 eggs
Mix all together and cook at 375 for 45 minutes in a casserole pan. Once baked through top with shredded cheddar cheese.

And, there you have it. The two things I can probably make with my eyes closed and no one has ever gotten sick yet. 😂

Line em’ up and knock em’ back…

Madison got a slushee machine a few years ago for her birthday and has been obsessed with making slushees anytime she can including parties. She often mixes flavors like watermelon and cherry [yuck]. Jayden and I only like plain ice however, I recently started adding my Rosé wine and making it Frosé which is even better!

She’s a pro at the under 21 drinks and I’ve got the others covered!

It’s nothing special, but it sure tasted good! Madison’s left over ice, Coconut Rum, Pineapple Juice and Cranberry Juice. Tastes like sweet summertime!

Aside from some pool time and sparklers, that’s the extent of our weekend. And this is generally how the pool time goes around here…