SHESPEAKS Your Power to Influence

Labor Day celebrates the contributions of American workers. Oregon was the 1^st state to make it a holiday in 1887 and it became a federal holiday in 1894! Since its creation Labor Day has turned into a day celebrate the end of summer in style! You put on your favorite white or seersucker outfit, and enjoy delicious food and drinks amongst family and friends.

Whether you have one giant meal, or sprinkles of gatherings throughout the weekend, patriotic inspired dishes are sure to delight! Here are some I recommend:

Breakfast:

• Patriotic Pancakes: Could it get any better than buttermilk pancakes, red velvet pancakes and blueberry syrup? (i am baker)
• Red, White, and Blueberry Muffins: Place these adorable muffins in a basket with a checkered napkin to give it the true American touch! (sophistimom)
• Jam N’ Cream French Toast: There is something about French Toast that it just reminds me of home. This dish is so good it might be illegal to consider it breakfast. (taste of home)

Appetizer:

• Bacon (or Veggie Bacon Strips) Wrapped Asparagus: I just love asparagus on the grill, but this recipe turns it up a notch! (taste of home)
• All American Summer Dip: This easy recipe mixes up conventional veggies and dip jicama and radishes. (Kraft Recipes)
• Grilled Avocados: Avocados + grill, need I say more? (recipe.com)
• Red, White and Blue Nachos with Fresh Jalapenos: If you are attending several events Labor Day weekend, these tasty patriotic nachos can be whipped up in a synch. (recipe.com)
• Pina Colada Fruit Salad: Bring a taste of the tropics to an end of the summer fiesta! (taste of home)
• Red, White, and Blue Potato Salad: This light potato salad uses 3 types of potatoes to wow your guests! (recipe girl)

Sandwiches: What could be more patriotic than an American classics with a twist?!

• Grilled Ham (or Tofurkey) and Cheese with Strawberry-Red-Wine Jam: Adding jam to this American favorite really takes the classic sandwich to a new level. (Food & Wine)
• Fried Green Tomato BLT: Adding a fried tomato to this classic adds a savory/salty crunch! You can mix it up with adding different herbs to the batter. (serious eats)
• Deviled Egg Sandwich: It’s not a party without deviled eggs! So why not put them on a sandwich? (Food & Wine)

Dessert

• Tiny Patriotic Pies: I just love little tiny desserts! What could be more perfect than your own patriotic pie? (Scrambled Henfruit)
• Cake Pops: Cake Pops are all the rage right now and a great way to give your guests dessert on the go, or a way to decorate your tables. (My Juice Cup)
• Red, White, and Blue Firecracker Popsicles: These popsicles remind me of all things being a kid (and they are delicious too!) (brown eyed baker)
• Red, White and Blue Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: To the person who first combined chocolate and strawberries – Thank you! (Baking Bites)

Beverages:

• Watermelon-Tequila Cocktails: With the end of summer unfortunately means bye bye watermelon L Enjoy this summer delight one more time! (recipe girl)
• Red, White and HYPNOTIQ Blue Martini: This martini is sure to be the hit of any Labor Day celebration! (Bar None Drinks)
• Patriotic Mocktail for Kids: Grab some Gatorade and Cranberry juice for a red, white, and blue drink the kids will love! (Food.com)