I’m taking part in an awesome pancake party today, hosted by Rachel of Rachel Cooks. An entire month of pancakes. I hope you’ve got your stretchy pants ready! The moment she contacted me I knew I wanted the 4th of July. It’s always been one of my favorite holidays. The food, weather, parties, swimming and of course… the fireworks!!

Several events have changed the way I look at the 4th of July, one being the birth of our oldest daughter. Yup… she’s my patriotic baby. Today she turned 5. I can’t even begin to fathom that. She’ll be starting kindergarten in a few short months. Hold me. That stupid button from Staples isn’t working… oh yeah, it’s an easy button not a pause button. Ugh. If you find a pause button please let me know where to look!

An-y-way…

So this whole birthday on the 4th thing means I may or may not be running out of years I get to go crazy with patriotic parties. I’m trying to soak it up as long as she allows, thus wanting to make awesome pancakes for the 4th. Originally I wanted to go all out with patriotic colors. Then it hit me… a barbecue isn’t complete without strawberry shortcake. It just screams patriotic to me. Maybe there’s no blue or shining stars… oh did I forget to mention that I even made star shaped butter. For real… it’s chilling in my freezer as we speak. These beauties didn’t need an ounce, or star, of butter though.

Leading up to this, I’ve never been a fan of pancakes. Serve me anything else… waffles, French toast or eggs but not pancakes. Oh these babies changed that. I died and went to heaven eating these. I’m not even remotely kidding. Layers of buttermilk pancakes, homemade whipped cream and fresh roasted strawberries. There is nothing better in this world.

And because I can… Let’s have some fireworks!! *Please do not attempt in your home unless you want inedible pancakes… unless you’re into the whole ashy food thing.* ;)

Happy 4th of July!

And… Happy birthday kiddo!!!

Be sure to stop by Rachel’s for the complete recipe!