July 4, 1776. The day our Continental Congress declared that the thirteen colonies were no longer subject to the monarch rule of King George III. The day our thirteen colonies became united independent states. The birthday of our freedom.

For most of us, Independence Day looks a lot different this year. Fireworks and parades are cancelled and large gatherings are frowned upon. And while this Fourth of July will be drastically unique, it still deserves celebration! Although quarantine has been challenging, it has forced me to slow down and appreciate the little things in life.. vintage simplicity stands at the forefront of our lives these days and will spill over into our celebrations this year.

For me, the perfect July 4th celebration includes my husband and puppies, a beach, sparklers, red white and blue everything and some delicious food. And lucky enough, this is the first year since I’ve know my husband that one of us isn’t working and we can actually celebrate together. So, you can bet your bottom dollar we’ll be incorporating all of those things into our day.

I know there are days it seems our country is falling apart, but I encourage you to celebrate this Fourth of July proudly. To wave our flag and remember how far the United States of America have come since that momentous day in 1776. Although our beloved country will never be perfect, she has conquered many hurdles to become the land of opportunity for 244 years. For this, she deserves a celebration.

10 WAYS TO CELEBRATE INDEPENDENCE DAY

1. Fly the American Flag proudly. Click here to learn the meaning behind our flag and instructions on how to properly display it.
2. Organize a neighborhood potluck get together.
3. Play outdoor games with your family and friends. Badminton, corn hole, bocce and wiffle ball are always hits.
4. Light off sparklers when it gets dark.
5. Make festive food. Check out these patriotic ice cream sandwiches or this red, white and blue snack board
6. Pack a picnic and head to a local beach or park with your family.
7. Make red, white and blue themed crafts with your kids.
8. Host an American themed cookout complete with hot dogs, apple pie and coca cola.
9. Attend local fireworks or a parade if you can find them amongst corona shut downs this year.
10. Watch a patriotic movie. Weather permitting, set up an outdoor movie theatre on your lawn. For rainy days, cozy up on the couch together with popcorn and ice cream sundaes. In case you need some movie ideas: Yankee Doodle Dandy, The Sandlot, The Patriot, Captain America, Independence Day, National Treasure.

Love, Jessica