Prep Day

I am determined to enjoy the 4th, so today is my big prep day. The day I want to get as much done as possible. Duff and I were up and out early on our way to Costco to get what was on our list. The going early was a good choice, because by the time we left it was a mad house. The place was jammed and there was not a parking place anywhere. We were parked out in the 'lower 40' and had people actually stop and ask us if they could have our space! Cars were not so patiently looking for a stall. Shopping at Costco is an event. There is so much to take in.

Got the cupcakes made. Can I just say that from scratch or box, red velvet is RED. The darling cupcake papers I got became red from the dye. I was so disappointed. But while I was plating them, I decided to use another paper to set them in and I'm pleased with the presentation.

Natalie and Robert got their ice cream made since their freezer is in Utah in storage. We have gone through a variety of ice cream makers in our married life, and our favorite is the White Mountain. It has a good heavy duty motor, and the can is taller and narrower so it has more surface area that chills faster. This combines to make the freezing time faster and a really creamy, smooth texture. All of our others are in the garage cupboards, but they were determined not to have to use a 'lesser version' when it came to a 'throwdown'!

Paper goods. Check. Platters. Check. Water pots. Yes. Wipe down bbq island. Done. Canopy up. Check. Chairs washed. Yep. Awards and coloring pages printed. Check. New bbq brush!

Taco salad for dinner.

I think we're ready for tomorrow!