I’ve been MIA for the past few weeks… between moving (from a home we’d been in for 13 years, so lots and lots of stuff!), celebrating baby showers for my sister, paper crafting like crazy for one of the showers, end-of-school celebrations for my daughters and keeping them entertained while unpacking… let’s just say I’ve missed the quiet, calm, solitude of writing! So, since tomorrow is a big celebratory day in America, I thought I’d come back and write a post with a bang! Or at least I thought I had some fireworks photos, which I’m realizing I don’t. So, I’ll write a post filled with red, white and blue!

The fourth of July is a definitely a family favorite, just steps behind Christmas, Easter and birthdays. Celebrating with friends, food, fun, and fireworks, what’s not to love?!

My girls like to start the day with a patriotic breakfast, so this easy (frozen) waffle with strawberries and blueberries usually does the trick. Add a little flag on a stick, and my girls are ready to kick-off an all American day!

{I once learned to get good food shots you’ve gotta get close, like you’re ready to take a bite. Um, I guess I really took that tip to heart considering I noticed all my food shots are really up close and personal!!}

We usually meet up with friends and share in a potluck of yumminess. Red, white and blue food? Absolutely! More strawberries and blueberries, and throw in some marshmallows for eventual roasting, and we’ve got our patriotic platter. And what 4th of July celebration would be complete without cupcakes? I swear that pack of toothpick flags was completely worth the few bucks!

We’ll be celebrating America’s birthday tomorrow, and my goal is definitely to capture some fireworks photos. My friend Katrina Kennedy offered some great tips on the very subject. I plan on studying up tonight and can’t wait to see what I can capture tomorrow!

What do you love best about the fourth of July or other summer holidays? I’d love to hear!

Happy early birthday, America!!!

Thanks for stopping by. Have a joyful, creative, blessing filled day!
Live creatively!
xoxo,
/c

PS. I’m loving My Four Hens new presets (Life Inspired) on these photos. That Sarah, she’s pure genius : )