1 :: Let Freedom Ring – This week’s post is dedicated to the day that honors our nations freedom. This is the second year I have been out of the country for this holiday and I have to admit it’s one of the times I become the most homesick. The 4th of July was always such a big holiday for my family growing up. Big potluck suppers, singing happy birthday to Aunt Teresa (Happy Birthday Auntie!!!), Blue-Bell ice cream and cherry pie, and more fireworks than a kid should ever be allowed to have. As much as I have enjoyed living abroad and all that comes with a foreign address, there is nothing like America. They say home is where the heart is, and mine shall forever reside in the good ‘ole US of A.
2 :: Freedom Fest Foods – Holy 4th of July snacks Batman! This is one of my favorite holidays to bake for… mostly because the food has such bright festive colors! Blue isn’t a color you usually see in food, so I love the opportunity to use the vivid blue food coloring! Pies were a staple in my house so of course cherry was the favorite, followed by blueberry at a close second. The first recipe knocks both out of the park! Decorated sugar cookie stars make my heart smile. Red velvet ice cream sandwiches??? YES PLEASE! Watermelon star pops…. SO fun! Who knew? and a holiday isn’t complete with out a festive alcoholic beverage. I wish I could be around to perfect this layered shot!
3 :: Freedom to Choo’s – keeping with the patriotic theme, I thought it’d be fun to see what gorgeous heels I could find in our nations colors. I love that the greats didn’t let me down. Thanks to Bergdorf Goodman and their beautiful selection of Christian Louboutin’s, Manolo Blahniks, Jimmy Choo’s, Valentino, & Prada, I can happily bring you today’s favorites. Yes while the prices are high, the quality and beauty is unmatched! 1) Christian Louboutin – Iriza Pointed-Toe d’Orsay Red Sole Pump $625.00 2) Manolo Blahnik – Hangisi Satin Pump $965.00 3) Manolo Blahnik – Swan Embellished Satin Pump $1295.00 4) Christian Louboutin – Filo Suede Platform Red Sole Pump $795.00 5) Valentino – Couture Bow d’Orsay Pump $695.00 6) Prada – Metallic Peep-Toe Pump $720
4 :: Freedom of Expression – I adore crafts that match any holiday. Because I won’t be in the country, I am leaving ya’ll with some fun filled entertainment for the 4th. Thank you Pinterest for your ability to fill every holiday with crafty fun! My favorites are the candle illuminated cans and jars. I would totally make these four our house in Garland if I were at home!
5 :: Freedom from an Automatic – This past week I have been learning to drive a manual car. A huge thanks to Amy & James Hopkins for volunteering their time and patience. James has been an exceptional teacher full of steadfast encouragement. Amy has been feeding me the most wonderful homemade food like chicken curry from scratch! The lessons are going well and if I can just face my fears square in the face I do alright. Lets just hope that when I’m actually driving solo that I don’t panic. Driving a stick is a complicated process for sure, but I am bound and determined to master the basics before Tuesday!
6 :: Baseball: America’s Free Heart & Soul – Nothing says summertime to me like intramural softball. Something about the smell of baseball dirt, fresh air, and leather. The perfect satisfying “smack” heard when the ball hits the glove. I managed to get some fun shots of D’s office team several weeks ago as they played their way to victory. We have a good team with an inspiring amount of talent. Hopefully we will go into the playoffs!
That’s all for this Monday! Hope this inspired you to start your week refreshed and ready to conquer. Don’t forget to come back next week!
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