Celebrate Good Times

Are you ready for the long Fourth of July weekend? I know I am! Well, actually, what I’m geared up for today is a long plane ride out to Oregon to watch the Olympic Track & Field trials with my fellow Brooks Running blog ambassadors … but, of course, I’m pumped to celebrate ‘Merica, too. And there’s really no better way to prep for all that than with a little light reading and recipe inspiration!
Tips for hosting the best Fourth of July ever. —The Daily Meal
A few healthier options to toss on the grill. —Greatist
Give your kitchen an awesome (and affordable) upgrade. And be done in time for fireworks! —Today
Festive Jell-O shots, anyone? —Delish
Because it’s Shark Week, too. —POPSUGAR Food
It’s strawberry shortcake. It’s a smoothie. It’s the greatest! —BexLife
And, because we don’t want to leave out our northern neighbors, Happy Canada Day! You’ll probably need to make this Maple Strawberry Cream Cake. (Feel free to invite us over to help taste test.) —Chatelaine
Now, the big question: How do you feel about fireworks? I like them okay from afar, but I really can’t stand being all up close. I know. Just go ahead and kick me out of the country now. —Kristen