Not just for Christmas
For a magical effect in your backyard or deck, string small white Christmas lights over a bush or fence. Turn them on when it gets dark and pour yourself a long, cool drink. Sit under the stars and watch them talk to one another.
Summer Sanctuary—at your house
Summer is the perfect time to regenerate and get reacquainted with yourself. Make your home a sanctuary.
1. Pick up a new novel each week, tuck yourself away in a cozy spot and get lost in someone else’s life.
2. Plan your next holiday. Where have you always wanted to go? What will you need to get there? Visualize your time then, plan every step.
3. Organize some downtime with your mom, sisters or a small group of girlfriends. Plan a weekend of eating out, sleeping in and lots of girl chat.
4. Set aside ten minutes a day to listen to music, close your eyes or meditate.
Water. How refreshing.
When guests arrive have a big, glass pitcher handy with freshly poured tap water and a not-so-hidden ingredient that looks as beautiful as it tastes.
Try:
- Slices of cucumber
- Slices of orange
- Whole strawberries or blueberries
- Ice cubes made from tangerine juice
- Sprigs of lavender, mint or tarragon
