The only thing better than a holiday is celebrating the day before while the weather is still good. And we had some great weather, today.

We headed all the way to Berwyn. We sucked it up, got Nonna into the car, checked the traffic report, and started our trek. Three miles, door-to-door. It’s farther than my work commute, but we made it. Exhausted from our travels, we needed sustenance. And sustenance, we had!

I’ll spare the chips and dips, cheeses, crackers, beer and liquor selection, and cut to the chase…

Ribs. Fall-off-the-bone tender ribs – cooked over coals the way barbecue was intended.

Little burgers – the perfect size considering everything else we were eating.

Salmon and salmon en croute, because every party needs salmon…

And the sides…

Quinoa and shredded jicama that I somehow missed getting a picture of, a patriotic cauliflower, blue potato, and tomato salad…

More potatoes, this time with peas, tomatoes, and onions…

Corn and black bean with avocado…

Deviled Eggs… Notice the red, white, and blue theme?!?

And the desserts… watermelon with blueberries…

Here’s Miles devouring one…

Chocolate Chip Biscotti.

Blueberry Pound Cake.

Red, White, and Blue Rice Krispie Treats.

And a Patriotic Prosecco!

As is typical, we had way too much food and I am way-stuffed. It was a fun crowd, ranging from 94 year old Joann to 19 month old Stella. The weather was perfect for sitting outside and letting the kids run free. We left Blanche at home as the little kids are a bit intimidated by a dog bigger than they are. Stella, at 19 months, doesn’t want to have a lot to do with most people or creatures, right now. She’ll get over it. She doesn’t have a lot of choice with this crowd.

Miles is still dealing with some food allergies, so I made the Rice Krispie Treats totally vegan and nut free. It was fun watching him dive into them. I didn’t get a picture of that, though.

And it was fun just sitting around talking and laughing and not having to do anything but eat and drink.

And in just a couple of months we get to do it with my family in California!

Can’t wait!!!