I still remember how excited we were when we discovered that July 25th would fall on a Saturday this year — and it would be the PERFECT date to hold our annual Christmas in July party. I had visions of getting a food truck, whipping up the perfect signature cocktail, holding our annual cookie baking contest and having a great time celebrating with our friends and family. It was going to be the best celebration yet….

But then came 2020. Enough said.

And we had to pivot, like we’ve had to do with just about everything else this year. But we just couldn’t cancel Christmas in July. Sure, no crowds of people, no big celebration — but maybe this year, we would discover what makes Christmas so special — celebrating with family.

So we did just that. Christmas cookies were a must so we had a baking party (just the kids and I) and made our favorite, Peanut Butter Blossoms.

Some Christmas lights, decorations and the ‘classic Christmas music’ station playing in our backyard also helped boost our Christmas spirit.

And the food! We went with a festive cheese board, of course.

And pizzas on the grill…first, a classic Margarita pie!

And next, we got a bit adventurous with Brie, Pear & Prosciutto…

And thank you to our fantastic neighbors for bringing us the perfect dessert, Christmas in July mini cheesecakes from The Cheesecake Girl! These were so delicious and the perfect bite size to allow for maximum taste testing 😉 We’ll definitely be ordering more ASAP.

And since Santa wasn’t quite ready to make the trip this summer, his elf made a special delivery for the kiddos!

Since it’s 2020, we’ll take any reason to celebrate — and I encourage you to do just the same.