Top 10 Things that I Learned Over the 4th of July Holiday Weekend

Posted by Ellen · July 8th, 2008

The 4th of July weekend is always a time that I look forward to, because it brings up strong feelings of family and summer time. As I sit here thinking about the holiday weekend, there are 10 things that come to mind.

1. It is hotter than hell on July 4th.

The heat can even bring the best man down when it comes to outdoor activities. Eating in 98 degrees while sweating profusely with both legs stuck to the chair does not bring about the happiest of thoughts. It is best to plan meals and outside activities around cooler times of the day.

2. Patriotism is great.

I really enjoy seeing the United States of America flags waving in the wind. It really does remind me of our democratic country and how despite some of the challenges that come up in life, we by far have the best lives by comparison.

3. Family members try to be on their best behavior.

I noticed that some of our family members that normally start trouble during ordinary family gatherings are on better behavior during the 4th of July weekend. I think they might be operating on some 4th of July code of conduct that was instilled in them from birth.

4. Fireworks look better up close.

When watching fireworks from far away, they look small and seem to barely make it up above the horizon. It is best to have the fireworks display take up your entire peripheral field of vision to get the maximum amount of excitement and enjoyment.

5. Public boat launches at lakes are out of control.

Expect overcrowding, no parking and long lines to put your boat in the water as well as taking it out. Also, there is lots of law enforcement on the lake on a holiday weekend, which can be good or bad depending on your perspective.

6. Grocery stores are an absolute riot the day before the 4th of July.

As we were walking in to a local grocery an elderly man was walking out and he stopped us and said “Son, you don’t want to go in there.”

7. Do serve summer time food on a summer holiday weekend.

While most people will lap up roast beef and mashed potatoes any time of the day or night, it is better to serve food that is easier to eat in the heat and that can be served at room temperature.

8. Watch out for wayward, crazy dogs during peak fireworks hours.

I noticed several canine escapees running loose while fireworks were being shot off in the neighborhood. These dogs are scared and confused and might even show you their pearly whites. Also a good thing to think about before you leave the house and leave poochie in the backyard alone.

9. Parades end up being fun after all.

Even if you are dreading going to a parade, nine times out of ten you will find something fun and exciting to look at.

10. The freaks come out at night.

Enough said.

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Let’s Take This Outside

Posted by Alex · July 1st, 2008

It is officially flip-flop weather here in sunny, HOT, Austin, Texas. When I think summertime, I envision great outdoor parties with all of my friends, cooking on the grill, enjoying fabulous iced beverages, and letting loose with some summer fun! Here are some great ideas and MindBites to get you, your friends, and your family enjoying the upcoming July 4th holiday and summer!

Drinks:

I don’t know about the weather where you are, but summer in Texas is HOT, often paired with an overabundance of HUMID. The only way to brave this sauna is a frosty beverage. My favorites include (in no certain order)-water, iced tea, lemonade, beer, sangria and margaritas. Here are some great summertime drink tips:

Learn How To Make Popular Bar Drinks

Open a Beer in an Emergency

Fabulous Mexican Martinis and More

and Wine and Food Pairings

Food:

Cooking out is one of my all-time favorite memories about childhood summers. But, in addition to (insert your favorite grilled food here), there are a variety of great summertime foods to cool things off-or spice them up!

Make Tony’s Vodka Burgers

Ice cream tastes better when you Make It Yourself

Learn Maudie’s Secret Salsa tips

Cooling Cucumber Yogurt Salad

Try to cook Using the Sun

Entertainment:

You might not want to do anything other than chat with your family or guests, but sometimes it’s nice to have some other diversion from the heat, especially if it includes cooling off in a lake (or other body of water)!

In the very least, you’ll need a Playlist

Learn to Ride a Waverunner or Drive a Boat

Ever tried Windsurfing?

And, of course, use your HandyCam to record it all for posterity!

I hope that some of these lessons will inspire you! Add in some red, white, and blue, and some fireworks, and you’ve got a 4th of July party. Enjoy your summer, and don’t forget to teach us what you learn.

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