Happy Birthday, America!

The Fourth of July has always been special to me. I think it might be my favorite holiday. I love the display of patriotism. I love the fireworks. I love the food and time with family and friends. It's just a great day!

I grew up in Philadelphia. The Fourth was always extra special there. Philadelphia is where the constitution was signed! The Liberty Bell resides in Philadelphia. My kindergarten teacher was a descendant of one of the creator's of the Liberty Bell. One of my favorite things about the holiday was the sparklers. I loved using a sparkler to write my name. Seeing sparklers on a cake always gives me a thrill. They are just so pretty.

Then there are the parties! Good food, great music and good friends make for a great party. There is an abundance of fresh fruit and vegetables in July. One of my favorite desserts was always served by my mother on the fourth. Strawberry Shortcake! Layers of spongy cake, delicious whipped cream and juicy strawberries. This is still my hands down favorite dessert!

Hot dogs and Hamburgers, Chicken and ribs, all are so typically American and appear on most Fourth of July party menus. I love making Shish kabob on the grill. I take any cut of beef and cut it into cube. Then I marinate it in pineapple juice and Italian dressing for at least 4 hours (overnight is better). Then I thread the beef onto the skewers with chunks of pineapple, green pepper, red onions and cherry tomatoes (I used to add mushrooms but Ryan is allergic so I don't use them anymore). Then grill until done! These are so delicious and everyone but your vegetarian friends will love them!

With all of the celebrating this Fourth of July, please be careful. I have seen some pretty catastrophic injuries caused by fireworks at home. Please do not let your children play with M80's. I once saw a little boy carried into the ER by his mother. He had lost half of his hand to an M80. Please, please be careful this year and every year. 

Happy Birthday, America!