5 ways to improve your Fourth of July

As that wonderful day of American Independence looms towards us, I give you five tips on how to make your Fourth of July bigger and better.

1) Plan ahead-

Many people like my husband are not planners. So this first tip will be the toughest. But a good plan can make or break your holiday. If you 4th is going to be family - orientated, make sure you've made reservations so hotels and restaurants can accommodate your large party. Also don't forget to call and reserve water crafts, jet skis etc. If you don't own one but want to use one on the fourth you just might be out of luck.

2) Organize-

The Fourth is a busy time usually with a lots of people coming and going. Kids are running around, teenagers are swimming and the adults are usually grilling or cleaning. With all this activity someone is bound to get hurt or need something they forgot at home. So organize yourself a basic supply kit. Good things to put in it are band-aids, hand sanitizer, a Philips head screwdriver, some Tylenol for kids and adults, crayons (for the young kids) and sunscreen. If your fourth includes a road trip make a separate supply kit for the car. Many a times I have looked like a super mom/wife when I whipped out a much needed item with the greatest of ease.

3) Do not have expectations-

As I write this, I realize that is also a tip I use for mothers day and birthdays. Basically plan and prepare but don't be crazed if things don't go exactly as you had expected. Sometimes the fun in life is saying oh what the hell ! So if you have reservations at the water park and it seems everyone else would rather just lay on the beach, well let your supply kit and a good reading book help you to remember if you have NO expectations you can never really be disappointed.

4) Dress for comfort-

Sounds simple enough but I don't know how many times myself or kids have dressed for the cute look and suffered because of it. The wrong shoes can cause blisters, sores and make a great day -crappy. That summer dress, which is flowery and short might look cute sitting or standing in but LORD help you if a game of volleyball starts up. You either won't be able to play or you'll give everyone a free show of your nether region. If you need to, pack a small bag with a change of clothes including a pair of shoes and a sweater (here in New york the temperature is known to fluctuate 30 degrees in an hour). Being prepared for activities with the right clothes means more fun and freedom.

5) Have a designated driver-

This may seem like old news but it still applies. Even if your plans are sitting in the back yard and BBQing have one person who does not drink. Why, you ask. Because an extra run to get hamburger buns (or beer) is inevitable. But also whose to say someone won't need a ride home. Keeping a sober driver just makes sense .So for the safely of your family and others make sure there is one driving none drinker in the bunch.

I have used these tips myself for over twenty years and they have never failed to help make my fourth of July safer, funnier and less stressful. Enjoy!