by Mary Bubbins

Created on: June 26, 2008

The fourth of July is perhaps every American' s favorite holiday. It is a time of fun, fireworks and food! Most frequently, it is a holiday that is celebrated by organizing a cook out so that you can share in the fun with your family and closest friends. Who doesn't love the grilled burgers, slobbering on the cob and mowing down the melon? We all make mistakes in our planning though, so pay close attention and you too can enjoy the festivities minus the stress.

DEFINITE "DO'S"

* MAKE A GUEST LIST *

You must always decide on who you will be inviting to your little soiree. Be certain that you like the people on your list or the day will be a wash before it even begins! Whether you do the inviting via word of mouth or if you have chosen the route of mailing festive invitations, always request an R.S.V.P. If you know how many guests to expect, you will know how much you will need to purchase. This can greatly reduce overspending and wasted food.

* MAKE A SUPPLY LIST *

Once you know how many you have joining you in celebration, you will be able to accurately judge what you will need and how much you will need. This step is vital, so leave no stone unturned! Make sure you write down everything from trash bags to burger patties. And never, ever forget the condiments!

* DEVISE A MENU *

Write down every dish that makes your stomach growl and then divvy up the responsibility of preparation. If Aunt Edna's potato salad can make your eyes roll back in your head, then don't be shy - ask her to make it. Just because your name is stamped as host/hostess to this shindig doesn't mean that you have to carry the weight of its success by yourself.

* PROVIDE SUN SHELTER *

No matter what area of the United States you live in, July is always hot, hot, hot! Be certain that you have an area of shelter from the sun, especially for the elderly. This can be accomplished by putting up a small tent or canopy, or choosing an area that has plenty of natural shade. Heat stroke is never a good way to kick off your gala.

* PROVIDE ENTERTAINMENT FOR THE KIDS *

Kids make life fun for us so let's make it fun for them. If you are holding your cook out in your own backyard, provide such things as a slip - n - slide or a sprinkler that they can run through. Children love water and on a hot day it will keep them occupied for hours. If you choose to cook out at the lake, a small boat with an inner tube attached to it is fun for both kids and adults. You haven't lived until you have been tubin' !

* PROVIDE ADULT

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