Relaxing in the sun. Cool, clear blue water. Calls of loons. The crackle of the campfire. Laughter of loved ones. Nothing beats celebrating the Fourth of July up north at the cabin!
My great-grandparents bought a cabin in Northern Minnesota back in the 1950’s. I imagine they would be so happy that we have carried on the tradition of getting together, reminiscing and, of course, eating. Oh boy, do we ever eat!
There are many staples on our 4th of July menu at the cabin. Pickle roll-ups, Auntie Carol’s potato salad and grilled hot dogs and brats are must-haves. We also dig into tasty fruit salads, fresh salsa and many pasta salads.
And what is a picnic without baked beans? My great uncle makes hearty, slow-cooked baked beans that disappear in a flash! If you don’t get some your first time through the food line, you are out of luck.
Get the recipe for Hearty Baked Beans and make them for your next celebration.
After lunch, it is all about relaxing in the sun, splashing in the water and playing yard games. We even have a tournament that goes on throughout the day. I am proud to say I was runner-up in the bean bag toss last year!
Finally, as the sun goes down and the air cools, it is time for the campfire and fireworks. This is my favorite part of the day...I pull on a cozy sweatshirt, roast a marshmallow and just relax.
I am so grateful that my great-grandparents purchased this piece of land in Northern Minnesota, and I look forward to our family's Fourth of July celebration there every year. The memories will last a lifetime!