Yeah, yeah, yeah, it’s almost the middle of the month and I’m finally getting around to Five Fun Things for July. But hey, cut me a little slack here…vacation was one of those fun things, so let’s start with that!

1. July is a big month for graduation parties; I bow in humility to the organizational talents of my little sister Tricia and the amazing culinary talents of her many friends. Let’s just say we learned how big a double layer full sheet cake really is. Everyone took home doggies bags loaded with cake, but oh so good!
2. This is also National Ice Cream Month, and Blue Bell was sweet enough to bring us a delicious taste of what's in store for you - and so perfect for the weekend!  Blue Bell is introducing summer strawberry pie ice cream, a superbly luscious strawberry ice cream combined with sweetened strawberries, flaky piecrust pieces and a whipped topping swirl. But what I appreciate the most is the fact that Blue bell ice cream, still a half gallon. I say you treat the family, and yourself!
3. The July issue of Consumer Reports ShopSmart Magazine is freebie heaven, so that’s only one reason to get a subscription, or borrow a friends copy. I liked the Bag Birthday Freebies list on page four; check out HeyItsFree.net/birthday or FreeBirthdayMeals.org. So sweet!
4. Just in case you thought Rhubarb was  merely a delicious veggie, you’re so going to love this one. Mental Floss magazine says that when some directors want the crowd scene noise without actual words, they actually have all the extras just mumble “rhubarb.” We’ll have to try that at the next staff meeting…
5. Finally, you know how much we love our picnics and fireworks and I’m happy to share my front row seat from the Cleveland fireworks display that my oh-so-talented brother in law Sal, and now my nephew Sal who is a “pyro” in training did! One word of advice. No matter how cool the shirt, next time I’ll think twice about wearing a shirt with those words on it while going through airport security. The TSA was not amused.

WORDS OF WISDOM FROM KELLY’S KITCHEN

Don't worry, the fans don't start booing until July.
Earl Weaver