Ever since I had the opportunity to represent my country at the World Championship Duathlon, I’ve felt a little more proud of where I come from and what it truly means to be an American. Don’t worry, I’m not getting too deep on you, but just honestly conveying what this holiday means to me. I’m so proud of my country and the people who live in it but, I haven’t forgotten my Cuban/Italian roots (especially these days!) or all the fun that goes along with the fourth.
Let the fireworks begin!
Besides getting dressed up in my Team USA kit and wearing it all day, I would also love to do/make/get some of this awesomeness:
FIREWORKS
Because, of course. Vaughn, my oldest by 1 minute, calls them “sparks” and asks if we can do them every single day. I try to say yes as often as possible because, why not?
I know fireworks are not legal in every state and I actually think this is a good thing. People get drunk on the 4th of July and drunk people lighting fuses in large crowds with kids around is a really bad idea.
If fireworks are legal where you are, please light up responsibly.
Miles likes to dance by the light of the puny fireworks that are regulated by CT law.
WOMEN’S WORLD CUP SOCCER
What could be more American then women’s football? HA!
But seriously, these games are so good, even my husband watches. We both were so into the semi-final game against Germany and can’t wait to see what happens in the finals on Sunday against Japan!
The athleticism and just badass-ness of these women makes me want to start playing soccer again. It’s that good.
The United States team celebrates following Kelley O’Hara’s goal against Germany. Source
FOOD
What is a 4th of July celebration without food? As you know, this is not my forte and I’m in charge of brining salad and wine to my weekend party. Luckily, I know a great blogger who has just the right balance of “I can do that” and “I would actually eat that!”
Brittany at My Own Balance shared some simple but fabulous recipes for the weekend (and beyond) that even I can make! Here’s a sample:
Lobster in an ice cream cone? Hell yes I can do that!
HUMOR
Because what is a holiday without a good laugh?
Happy holiday weekend everyone!
The thing about the Holidays is bringing actual food to a picnic. It’s always a struggle because I think…would someone actually eat and enjoy that? Have a great Holiday weekend!
Which is why I usually just bring wine!
I’m loving soccer too. I can’t wait for the game on Sunday. Can we start a U.S.A chant now?!?
USA USA USA USA 🙂
Allie, I love “sparks,” too!! I’m hoping I can stay up late enough to enjoy the symphony & sparks on the river tomorrow night; we’ll see-ha! And definitely yes to soccer; I’m so ready to watch them win-woo hoo!! I hope you have a fantastic holiday weekend!
I have the same issue – I can’t stay up late enough to see the professional “sparks” so I have to create my own at 8pm!
Thank you and have a great weekend too!!
Add women’s soccer to my list of favorites. Bonus that it’s extra bonding time with my daughter!
Love that you watch it together!! Enjoy it 🙂
I love seeing people be creative with food at holiday picnics. I’m usually that person that brings something boring : aka simple. :). Have a great weekend!
Yep, me too! But not this year 🙂
I played “travel” soccer for years, we are loving the FIFA women’s games and can’t wait for Sunday’s final!!! We were all chanting USA! USA! USA! during the game against Germany!
It’s SO fun! Love that you’re watching and getting just as excited!
All of the above are on my list for this weekend and wishing you a great 4th of July weekend!! 🙂
Right back at you Janine!!
Happy 4th!! So excited to watch the soccer game on Sunday as well!!
To you as well!! GO USA!!!
wow what a genius idea – ice cream cones have so many uses besides holding ice cream, but I would never have thought of lobster. brilliant!!!! we’re going to san Antonio for the 4th to celebrate with my oldest brother and family friends, and leaving after I go run with the Jeff Galloway running club in Houston. i’m really excited to meet them, this will be my first run with their group. I’ve been loving the run/walk/run method so I figure it’s time to meet like-minded folk 🙂
happy 4th!
How exciting! I have never been to San Antonio but I hear wonderful things. Enjoy your group walk/runs and have a great weekend Danielle!
It’s been so fun to watch the women’s soccer games and I cannot wait until Sunday! We’re hanging out at my in-laws this weekend and it’s nice to get out of the city for a little bit. Have fun this weekend and be careful with those fireworks! 🙂
That sounds like a perfect weekend! Enjoy it.
Love women’s soccer and can’t wait to see the game on Sunday!
That lobster in ice cream cones looks amazing – so easy!
We can’t light our own fireworks here, but am excited to watch them tonight and tomorrow night.
Have an awesome holiday weekend!!
Have a great weekend!! I can never stay awake for the professional ones! #Loser
have a great weekend gal! and yeah, dc is light up all 4th of july weekend. i always worry about dumb drunks!
I can only imagine! I’m sure it’s beautiful but probably less so for the people who have to deal with the crowds and drunks 🙂 Have a great weekend!
Happy 4th!!! I can’t WAIT for the soccer game. We’ve been addicted.
I know the feeling!!
HaHa – LOVE that tweet! Hope you and your family have a wonderful Independence Day, and enjoy the sparks!
Isn’t it just so true? 🙂 Happy 4th!
I think I would wear the Team USA kit EVERYDAY if I had one! You go!
I, too, am looking forward to the game on Sunday!
Happy 4th of July!
Trust me, I consider it as an outfit choice most days 🙂
Happy 4th!! Go Team USA!!!
Sparks sound soooo much better than fireworks!! 🙂 I hope you guys had a great 4th!! I’m going to try and watch the US game today while I clean my house and get ready for the work week.
checking in on the FLIPSIDE
such a great weekend here.
the food the soccer the fun the soccer the SOCCER!!!
AMAZING. That is the only word for that game!
Ahhh! Thanks for including my recipes! 🙂 🙂 I hope the salad worked out for you over the weekend!
I love the photo of your kids with the fireworks. So cute! Cooper actually enjoyed the fireworks, which was surprising to me! Also, as I am typing this they are reporting on the news about two children being injured my fireworks over the weekend–goes to your point of drunk people plus fireworks plus kids= no bueno!