A Sweet Fourth + a No-Cook Snack You'll Love

We made it through fireworks season—and truly enjoyed it. On the Fourth of July, our family joined the Lennox Parade and passed out snaps. It was fun to see so many familiar faces along the way and celebrate Independence Day together! Charlie and I walked alongside Andy, plus a few of our nieces and nephew, and some of my family came out to support.

A few evenings after the fourth, we had pizza and pulled out our lawn chairs while Andy and some of our friends lit off fireworks. Well… let’s be honest—I was mostly chasing Charlie around, and we sat in the chairs here and there. But it was a sweet night, and Charlie really seemed to enjoy the fireworks. It’s always special getting to see things through his eyes and slowing down for moments like that.

🥗 Featured Recipe: Summer BLT Pasta Salad

This one is fast, crowd-pleasing, and great for using up garden veggies.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz rotini or bowtie pasta

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 4–6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

• 1–2 cups chopped romaine or spinach

• ½ cup mayo + 2 Tbsp Greek yogurt

• 1 tsp lemon juice

• Salt, pepper, garlic powder to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and cool.

2. Stir together mayo, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and seasonings.

3. Toss pasta with dressing, bacon, tomatoes, and greens just before serving.

4. Optional: Add avocado, cheddar cubes, or grilled chicken for a full meal!

🗓 Weekly Meal Ideas

Monday: Baked chicken tenders + corn on the cob + watermelon
Tuesday (Taco Night!): Taco rice bowls with salsa chicken, black beans & corn
Wednesday: BBQ pulled pork sandwiches + sweet potato fries
Thursday: BLT Pasta Salad + fruit smoothies
Friday (Pizza Night): Paleo Homemade pizza + raw veggie plate
Saturday: Grilled burgers + green beans + baked peaches
Sunday: Slow cooker roast + mashed potatoes + roasted carrots

🍪 Quick Snack or Treat

No-Bake Firecracker Energy Bites
A fun, festive snack to keep the Fourth vibes going.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quick oats

• ½ cup peanut butter or almond butter

• ¼ cup honey or maple syrup

• 2 Tbsp chia seeds or flaxseed

• ¼ cup mini white chocolate chips

• Red and blue sprinkles or dried fruit (like freeze-dried strawberries + blueberries)

Instructions:
Stir everything together, roll into balls, and refrigerate. Done!

⏱ Time-Saving Tip

Use what you have before shopping again.
Try a “shop your kitchen” day—look at your fridge, pantry, and freezer before making another grocery run. You might have a whole meal hiding in plain sight (and it saves money too!).

🌽 What’s in Season:

Sweet Corn, Zucchini, Cucumbers, Blueberries, Peaches, Tomatoes, Green Beans
Perfect for salads, grill nights, and snacking straight from the garden (or market!).

Best,

Cara