4th of July Past and Present & Dinner

 Yesterday was the 4th of July, we didn't see fireworks or attend any BBQ's we pretty much hung at home and did a little of this and a little of that. The weather was not the best but that wasn't why we hung at home, it was more about many of our friends had to work yesterday and we waited to get together when everyone could make it. So this afternoon we will get together and celebrate the Birthday Of America like only Americans know how. Food, friends, sunshine, and lots of laughter as we make new memories.
  As we were enjoying the Phillie's game on the comfort of our couch were started talking about and remembering 4th July of past. For Dziadzi it was all about the Phillie's and how many times they had played on the 4th. 204 games, 72 double headers. How many of those games were won I don't know the research stopped there. For mom and me it was about remembering the big family gatherings that happened at my Great Aunt Marjie's. My Grandmom had 7 brother and sisters and they all had large families and every 4th of July we would gather in Aunt Marjie's  big back yard and celebrate away. Lawn darts, card games, bat-mitten, and some very good food. I remember those gatherings with so much love. Because of the Blue Laws almost everyone was able to make it no matter what day it fell on, making the 4th perfect for a family reunion. What better way to celebrate independence day and the land of freedom and opportunity then to gather with your family and friends and enjoy the day. I went searching and was able to find one crumbled picture of a small portion of the family.

 I know many more pictures are out there I just wasn't able to find them.It doesn't matter because every 4th July I close my eyes and I can smell the charcoal grill firing up, the watermelon being cut open, hear the happy chatter between all the women there, the sisters, aunts, mothers and daughters. As clear as a bell I still hear the lawn darts deep thud as it was expertly sunk into the ground, and the satisfied grunt of the thrower. My favorite memory the one that makes me smile the most is when nightfall came and my cousins and I would all be given sparklers to run around with and be fire works. Not long after that we kids would lay on a blanket all together and watch as the real fireworks display would light up the sky in RED WHITE & BLUE. I am pretty sure not a single one of us was a wake when the fire works where over. That was always one long long happy day. After a little more searching I found a few photos that will help you see my memories a little better. My Grandmom her siblings & their spouses.

 This one was taken in July of 63 and yep that is me in the front.

  In the past few years I have enjoyed celebrating the 4th with our friends and it is nice in fact it is very much fun, but I don't think anything will ever compare to the 4th of July family reunions at Aunt Marjie's house when I was growing up.  
 " What Was Dinner" Since I haven't had my 4th barbecue yet I was not sure what I was going to do here. Last night we had a simple diner of grilled chicken legs, mashed potatoes, and corn on the cob. Simple but very very good. Not pictures no recipes just pure enjoyment. So that left me with a blank spot and no real idea how to fill it. I thought about leaving it blank and then a light bulb went on over my head.

 I am talking about 4th of July's past why not share something from the past. July 4 2012, we were poolside with family enjoying fun in the sun and good good good food. The main star was Kabobs.

 Kabobs are as good if not better then foil packs on the grill. Packed with flavor no matter what ingredients you use and everything comes together on a stick. Easy to make, easy to eat, and most importantly easy to clean up. There is no recipe here just the idea. 

A kabob can be made with anything, they can be made to cook or be raw. Festive fun party food.
 Well it is time for me to whip up my contribution for today's gathering,and don my red white and blue attire, and go celebrate America and her greatness. 
  Have a wonderful weekend! Thank you for stopping by.