Fourth of July Recipes

The Fourth of July is one of my favorite holidays to celebrate with my friends and family. As a tradition, we'll be downtown camping out on the lawn by the water with our picnic baskets full of food. Everyone is contributing something, and right now, I still don't know what I'll be making. Although, I do know I'll be bringing something to sweet. I need something that's simple and can withstand Florida's heat. (I'd really like to bring popsicles to cool off... but I just think that's silly). If you're in the same boat as me, these 5 recipes are good contenders: 

Fourth of July Rice Krispies // Cake in a Jar // Chocolate Dipped Pretzels // Red, White and Blue Velvet Cupcakes // Funfetti Sandwich Cookie

**Note to self: I really need to get acquainted with my camera ASAP for tomorrow night. Every year I try to take pictures of the pretty lights in the sky, but I end up with blurry who-know-whats. My goal is to take at least a few decent photos. If you have any pointers, please share! 

What are your Fourth of July plans? 

Picnic Ideas and Guide

1. Picnic blanket // 2. Picnic basket // 3. Green tea sunscreen // 4. Pillows // 5. Picnic serving utensils //
6. Spoons, fork, & knives // 7. Bowls

It's almost summer! The perfect time of the year to relax and enjoy the outdoors... and have a picnic. So I've put together a pretty substantial picnic guide with all the things you'll need!  I've been thinking about it recently because I just found out my downtown has music and movies in the park event every Thursday. How awesome! I love finding new things about St. Pete. It's such an awesome idea to build up our city and bring the community together. And also a great time for a picnic. So here it is...

 The ultimate picnic guide.

Supplies

• A picnic basket is definitely a must-have, but don't be afraid to get creative and use different kinds of containers (maybe a bag or an open basket)  
• Grab a blanket you don't mind getting a little dirt on and some pillows to lay back on. 
• If you bring food, you'll want to pack some serveware (utensils, serving spoons, bowls/plates, tupperware) and a bottle opener
• Pack trash bags and to clean up afterwards.

Food

• You'll want to pack something light (veggies & fruits: watermelon, strawberries, blueberries), simple and portable (cheese, bread, nuts). Or make something beforehand like sandwich, salad, pasta, cupcakes or dessert in a jar.
• Pack plenty of water, especially for being outside, you don't want to be dehydrated! I like to bring Izze soda, you can always recycle Izze bottles to make a vase, decorate your home, and set the table.  Or you can mix it up and bring a mixed cocktail. 

Entertainment

• Enjoy the outdoors! Bring some board games, a deck of cards or sports equipment (football, frisbees, etc)
• Make the most of other events outdoor events taking place (movie, concert, live entertainment)

Protect Yourself

• Protect your skin and don't forget to pack the sunscreen, a hat and some sunglasses. 
• If you're a constant target for mosquitos and other bugs, make sure to pack bug spray and insect repellent or bring citronella candles. 

For more inspiration for your picnic, check out my pinboard! 

Images via pinterest