July Fourth Party - Get Ready for the Celebration

1. Party for a large group
It's time to plan the potluck and who's going to host. A quick suggestion would be for host family to send out suggestions for hot or cold dish choices, chairs, games, drinks or whatever would be needed. Maybe you want to suggest that everyone wear red, white and blue. Or maybe you'll all attend the home town parade and follow that with your gathering and potluck.

Decorations are easy - any part of red, white and blue work. Mix and match - paper, plastic or special dishes you may already have. Remember that bowls, plates or other dishes can certainly serve multi purposes and not necessarily how you would usually use them. Example - a big bowl can hold a salad, punch or other drink, flower arrangement - and add some sparklers to that for fun, chips, fruit or kabobs.

Eating can be very informal, so don't spend too much time dragging out everything. Pull up a lawn chair or have the kids sit on a blanket or quilt. Maybe string some of the fun lights ever so popular now for evening fun.

Plan some games - if your family will enjoy participating. Even if they hesitate, relays are always fun and so funny.

2. Party for a family or small group
If you're going to do most of the cooking, prepare as much ahead of time as possible. Make your salad and cut up your fruit. Have the kids help with cheese and cracker plates etc. Grill some burgers, brats or dogs and you're ready to eat.

If you're planning on the deli to help you, purchase food prior to the 4th so you can just open the frig and enjoy.

Maybe you'll want to enjoy the parade or a bike ride or even go fishing or to a patriotic concert in the evening. Be sure to make the day special by decorating and using red, white and blue. Simply said, have fun and take lots of pictures.

3. A great day if you're alone
Give thought to something you would really enjoy doing to make this day memorable. Maybe it's spending a great part of the day making phone calls or emailing friends or family you haven't had time for. Maybe it's donning your firecracker tee shirt and hat - and joining everyone at the parade. Maybe it's your time for a movie or to read that book you've had sitting there.

Don't feel sorry for yourself that you are alone. Maybe you'd enjoy eating lunch in a park or at a special deli while reading or enjoying a special drink. Or maybe you'd just love to spend time on the front porch watching the neighbor kids play with their dog.

Remember, we are celebrating the independence of our U.S.A. At the same time, celebrate the fact that you can enjoy the freedom to do what you want and with whom you choose on this very special summertime holiday.