Party Theme/Idea: July 4th. Invite the neighborhood and have lunch ready – use plenty of red, white and blue to decorate.

Favorite Recipe: Spinach, Strawberry and Ricotta Salata Salad from Mr. B’s

Ingredients:
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, to taste
¼ cup olive oil
8 cups baby spinach (about ¼ pound)
½ cup sliced strawberries
1 ounce ricotta salata cheese

Preparation:
In a bowl whisk together vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper. Gradually whisk in oil. Add spinach and strawberries, tossing to coat, and season with salt and pepper. With a very sharp knife or peeler shave cheese into large shards over salad. Serves 4.

Favorite Flower: Vinca

How-to Idea: 4th of July wreath

– Soak a 10-inch oasis ring in water.
– Cut greenery into 2-3 inch long pieces (we used Japanese yew).
– Cover the ring with greenery by poling the ends into the oasis, then add clusters of red and white flowers (we used roses) in groups of three.
– Finish off with a grand red, white and blue bow. Secure to gate, fence or railing with wire.