The Simple Note

For the past week and a half T and I have been preparing our home for the Fourth. I started with simple decor that lead into the neat idea to throw the girls a backyard movie night. The original idea came from a co-worker who shared a photo and said "I could see you doing this". I immediately fell in love with the idea. I told her I loved the idea of doing it, but it had to be inside. I don't like being hot! 

When I first started gathering ideas, I had the plan to prepare everything inside our living room but on an empty wall. But after consideration, whats the fun in that? 

I shared the idea with T and he quickly fell on board (my number one supporter). He ordered a projector and helped me pick some cute decor from FB Marketplace. That's when all the plans started to really come in place. 

So far, we've made a few signs, purchased our snacks, picked our movie, and prepared our food menu. 

Here is why we're going all out for movie night: 

1. Unforgettable Memories. I want the girls to have memories that last a lifetime. Unconventional random family moments. I can't wait to see their faces and spend quality time in a different way. I want the girls to look back on their childhood and say "My mom did some weird stuff, but I liked it. I remember the time when..." That's what means the most to me in any project I do.

2. Fireworks. While we aren't spending hundreds of dollars on fireworks, we are able to see a great show from our neighborhood. Setting up outside allows us to prepare for a firework show during/immediately following our movie. 

3. Traditions. Our second favorite family holiday is the Fourth of July. Maybe because of me and my desire to decorate, but I think gathering together, eating great foods, and summer sum up why I love it so much. Celebrating each year isn't only an old-time tradition, but one that I plan to share with our littles, but in our own way. 

While we continue to prepare for our own little celebration here is some of our Fourth decor. 

Have you ever held a movie night in your backyard? If so, share some tips!

Simply,

 Whitney

Summer time is here and I am so excited about spending some quality time with my family. This year we are adding a lot of "firsts" and new "traditions" to our list. A new addition to the list of celebrations now includes Memorial Day and Fourth of July. 

This quick and easy dessert is perfect for any gathering. Who doesn't love fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and fluffy cake? I can’t wait to make this yummy patriotic dessert again for the holiday. 

Directions:

1. Cook Angel Food Cake according to the directions on box. When done, set aside to cool.

2. Slice strawberries and place in a large bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of brown sugar and toss gently until all strawberries are covered. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and place in fridge for strawberries to glaze and cool for at least 30 minutes. 

3. In another large bowl, prepare banana cream pudding (using cold milk). Set aside. 

4. Slice Angel Food Cake in small slices. Once sliced, cube pieces into uneven squares. 

5. Remove strawberries from fridge, and prepare to layer your dessert bowl. I layered mine, cake cubes, pudding, whipped cream, glazed strawberries. Repeat until bowl is filled. 

6. Layer top with cake crumbles (you can also add leftover strawberries in glaze or whole strawberries.)

7. Serve. Refrigerate. 

Quick tips: 

1. Do not fill your pan with cake batter. Angel Food rises so give space in pan. 

2. Use all of your glaze and strawberries. Don't be afraid it will get soggy or watery. The more strawberries the better. 

3. Keep refrigerated. 

4. It's so light and fluffy, no need to feel guilty after eating this dessert!

I know you will enjoy this recipe as much as I did! What are your favorite patriotic desserts?