Transition Your Containers

September is looming and it's just a tad cooler outside.  Just a tad.  I realized this weekend that the containers on my back deck that I so lovingly planted and watered at the end of spring really took a beating this summer in the 95+ degree heat (for weeks on end) and my own shameful neglect.  But my budget is stretched from back-to-school, and it's too early for pansies, so what's a girl to do?  Start … [Read more...]

Blueberry "Delish"

If you are an avid Southern Living reader, you have probably seen this Blueberry Salsa recipe before (it's been around a long time!), but I decided to share it today, as it's a tried and true favorite in my household and at my parties.  Plus, with blueberries at the height of their season, this is an economical crowd pleaser to whip up for your next gathering. Try it with chips or as a garnish for fresh fish off the grill.  Your guests will envy … [Read more...]

Hydrangea Heaven

This summer is the first in several years that my hydrangeas actually bloomed.  I suppose years of the South's drought kept them in hiding, even though I managed to keep the foliage alive.  But the right amount of water and dappled sunlight revived them-- blooms and all-- late this spring.  I had almost forgotten how much I adore their delicate colorful showpieces!  I clipped several along the way to brighten my kitchen … [Read more...]

Bubbling Over

I love a good glass of champange.  There's something so festive about popping the cork, the shape of the glass, the bubbles, it just screams "CELEBRATE!"  While I love drinking it by itself, I also enjoy a good champagne cocktail.  Check out this inspired champagne infusion bar from Jenna over at EAT DRINK PRETTY... I love the idea of the party guests mixing their own cocktail-- bellinis, mimosas, etc.A few tidbits to … [Read more...]

Red, White, and Blue

To get you in the Independence Day spirit...Beach Bags over at Cottage Coastal StoreFestive dessert-- layer sorbet and vanilla ice cream, garnish with blueberriesPatriotic porch-- photo by Laurey Glenn at Southern LivingColorful centerpiece-- photo by Robbie Caponetto at My Home Ideas … [Read more...]

Tip of the Week: Take It Outside!

Before it gets too hot, dine al fresco with your family!  You don't need a special occasion to set a pretty table outdoors.  Use a potted plant or two as your centerpiece and pull out the stops:  placemats, napkins, glassware (or deckware).  Pieces you already own will take on new life in an outdoor setting!  Mix and match your dinnerware to have some fun, but keep it simple so you can enjoy the scenery and the … [Read more...]

Tip of the Week: Get Your Yard Party-Ready!

Now that the weather is warmer and the pollen season is winding down, we all look forward to outdoor entertaining.  But how do you get your yard to go from drab to fab for your festivities?  SouthernLiving.com has some excellent suggestions to accomplish just that.  Need instant color?  Purchase packs of annuals, set them in your flowerbed and mulch or pinestraw directly around the container.  Once your party is … [Read more...]