Celebrating the Fourth of July on the Front Porch

Now that the warm weather of summer is here, it is time to plan ahead and get the most out of the outdoor celebrations, such as Fourth of July.

Perhaps this year, your summer includes something a little different, like a simple celebration on the front porch?  I am sure you will agree that usually the holiday is celebrated with a "bang", but it can be just as memorable and celebratory like a large party with a small gathering on a peaceful and serene front porch instead.

Some cool breezes under the shaded porch with a bottle of wine, tasty appetizers and a few friends can be a great way to begin the early evening.   As the day turns into night, some music, tiki torches and mosquito-repellent citronella candles brighten the porch as friends delight in some great conversations and an abundant selection of snacks and appetitzers.  As the fireflies begin to dance across the front lawn, the first of many colorful fireworks light up the blackened sky from the nearby park.

Some bold colorful flowers will brighten the holiday.

The wine has been chilled and ready to go.

It is time to try some Lemon Herb Cheesecake which was baked and garnished with tomato roses and served with some crispy sesame crackers as a creamy, savory appetizer.  It is gluten-free too.

To make this recipe, go to:  Gluten Free Lemon Herb Cheesecake.  The only change I made to the recipe was I omitted the tablespoon of sugar and topped the cheesecake with a sour cream/cream cheese "frosting" piped through a pastry bag.   I combined 4 ounces of softened cream cheese with two tablespoons of sour cream until creamy and soft enough to pipe through a pastry bag but still retains firmness.  I garnished the top of the cheesecake with chopped chives, dill and tomato roses after it was baked and cooled.

For the garlic lovers among us, there is a delicious garlic dip for raw vegetables, crackers and chips.  It is another simple and easy appetizer for snacking and is certainly a crowd pleaser.

This recipe is a favorite and is made often. 

Three Ingredient Garlic Dip

1 (8oz.) package of cream cheese, softened

2 T ketchup

1 T powdered garlic

Mix together and serve on raw veggies, crackers or chips.  You can always add more ketchup and/or garlic powder according to your own taste preference.   Simple to make, but quick to disappear.

Anyone with a sweet tooth might enjoy some vanilla frosted sugar cookies with red, white and blue sprinkles.

There really is nothing more like "home sweet home" at times.

I love using bright bold colors and patterns for this special holiday.  It reminds me of the variety of bright and bold colors in the night time display of fireworks.

Stars and stripes everywhere!

HAVE A 
HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY!!!