As July 4th approaches, you’ll find fireworks stands on every corner, shopping carts full of hamburgers and hot dogs and the a sea of red, white and blue in the crafty corner of the internet. This Independence Day holds special significance for me because as you’re reading this, my son is signing his enlistment papers to join the United States Navy. Part of me is scared and not anxious for him to leave home, but a much bigger part of me is so proud of that kid. He’s accomplished some great things in his life already, and taking this step just shows how much more he has yet to give the world. We don’t have any idea when he’ll be leaving yet, but I can guarantee when that day comes you’ll find me with a box of kleenex and a face full of happy/sad tears. And you all know this isn’t the last of my mom-gushing about it. 
I gave away a bunch of these plastic beads when my kids got too old to care about them anymore. Now I wish I still had them, because these Perler Bead Cup Covers from Twin Dragonfly Designs are a great idea.
These Red, White and Blue Raspberry Candy Bars from Cherry Tea Cakes would be a fun surprise for kids or party guests.
I love that these Painted Lawn Stars from The Concrete Cottage are a bold, but temporary, outdoor decoration.
Oh, how I love a giant cookie, so this Red, White and Blue Chevron Cookie Cake from Cookin’ Cowgirl would be my perfect 4th of July dessert.
It would be so much fun to spring these Firecracker Cakelettes from SheKnows on some unsuspecting guests.
You see lots of printables this time of year, but I don’t think I’ve seen one before that quotes the U.S. Constitution like this one from Aspen Jay.
Mmm…Tie Dyed Fudge from Taste and Tell. It’s almost too pretty to eat.
Little kids and fireworks are a tough combination. The danger level is high, but so is their want to touch sometimes. These Paper Rockets from Whimsy Love might be a good solution, just keep them away from fire!
This Geometric America Printable from Over the Big Moon is different than most I’ve seen. I love the way the colors are combined.
If you’re looking for a more grown-up treat for the big day, check out these Grilled Blackberry, Strawberry, Basil and Brie Pizza Crisps from Half Baked Harvest. Yum.
I love curating my Friday Favorites each week, and I want to make sure that the talented people who have created these projects are fully acknowledged for their work. Before you pin or share, please click through the link or photo to the originating website. You can also find all the projects each week on my Friday Favorites Pinterest board. Thank you!
