Pinch me - it's sunny!

We're finally getting some much needed sun and warm weather this weekend here in the pacific northwest. It's amazing how quickly everyone's mood changes when this happens. We suddenly fall in love with Seattle all over again and remember why we live here in the first place - those glorious 3 months of summer! This has me daydreaming about barbecues, refreshing beverages, and outdoor entertaining. Here are some fun ideas you can incorporate into any summer event.

Mint and watermelon mojito. What could taste more like summer than that?

Or, how beautiful is this tub of cherry mojitos? Fresh cherries is one of my favorite parts of summer.

These paper flowers are easy to make and personalize for any party or reception. If you don't have something to hang them from directly overhead use fishing line strung between trees or poles.


Hanging candles and lanterns create a lovely glow as the sun goes down. If only I had a place with a view like this.

All images via Martha Stewart