Fireworks & Popcorn Lollipops!

In celebration of our freedom and the heritage and history of our wonderful country, the Fourth of July, America's "Independence Day", is a real party in the U.S.A.! From rural "Americana" to the vibrant city lights, coast to coast and everywhere in between, we love the culture, diversity and vibrancy that is within this beautiful country of ours.

And the fireworks are pretty awesome too ...

Especially when you are lying on your back on a cozy quilt gazing up at them ...

And enjoying a goodie of some sort, between the "ooh's and aah's"...

Something convenient, non-drippy, easy to hold for all ages, yummy and delicious and especially easy to eat in the dark! Like THESE little sweet beauties I found from a darling site I follow HERE, where you will also find how to make that ADORABLE "Beadboard Flag" pictured at the top!

"Popcorn Lollipops"

• 6 quarts popcorn
• 16 oz. mini marshmallows
• 1/4 c. butter
• 1 T. Jello-O powder, {my fav is raspberry}
  
• white chocolate chips {Ghiradelli!}
  
• sprinkles {match color to holiday/event}
  
• lollipop/popsicle sticks/halved wooden skewers
• cellophane bags and ribbons
  

1} These are made just like Rice Krispie treats! Melt the butter and marshmallows together, until marshmallows are completely melted. Remove from heat, and stir in Jell-O. Keep stirring until the powder is dissolved. Pour mixture over popcorn, and fold together

2} Coat your hands in butter, then form popcorn mixture into balls. Lay them out on a sheet of wax paper. Once they are all formed, place a stick in the bottom of each popcorn ball.

3} Melt the white chocolate chips in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds. Dip the lollipops in to the chocolate, then sprinkle to your heart's delight. Place them in a heavy glass or bowl, then into the freezer for 2-3 minutes until the chocolate has hardened. Of course you can lick the melted chocolate bowl and spoon for that matter while you are waiting.

4} Place a cellophane bag over the "Popcorn Lollipop" and tie a ribbon around base to secure.

Red and white sprinkles with blue ribbons would be super cute and patriotic to celebrate the 4th of July, and I thought even coating them completely in white chocolate and then sweetened flaked coconut would be fabulous for a wintertime! A little silver bucket of "snowballs" left outside a door for a holiday gift would be darling and creative tied with a ribbon and note card.