A Casual Fourth of July

Are you having a big celebration for the Fourth of July? We've been invited this weekend to a friend's cabin in the mountains to celebrate – there's sure to be several types of barbecue, side dishes and tasty desserts.

But on the Fourth itself, we'll be happily relaxing at home.

I've already set the table in the breakfast room, which is the dining space between the kitchen and the family room and open to both.

I wanted to limit the colors to the traditional red, white and blue, and the patterns to stars and stripes. Kitschy? I don't think so. They represent the flag, and by extension, the country.

Besides, it's fun and festive and instantly recognizable!

In the center I've placed a vase full of white carnations that I used here in a different context.

Completing the centerpiece are star-shaped ceramic bowls in red, white and blue, that I bought at Saks Fifth Avenue ten years or so ago.

Joining them is a cute flag salt and pepper set.

The place settings consist of a square plate topped by a round salad plate with a larger flag design. They sit on blue placemats and include blue glasses. Two of the settings are set on the diagonal for added interest. Napkins with stars and stripes are inter-laid with white ones.

In this photo, you get a glimpse of the field of stars on the dinner plate.

Why do I call this a casual Fourth of July table? The plates and napkins are paper and the glasses are acrylic. Should the rains ever stop, they'd be easy to pack up and take outside.

And if they don't, I see no problem in using them indoors. If ever there's a time and place for paper dishes it's the Fourth of July!

I hope you enjoy the Fourth and cherish the independence we celebrate.