Gathering. There’s nothing like being together. I have missed it…have you? Years of masks and distancing and separating have taken a toll on many. Are you among them?
Do you have memories of family gatherings on Sundays or weekends at the lake? Have you missed memories of being together that somehow has been lost the past few years?
I hope this summer, you are taking time to enjoy those being together moments.
I always love picnics by the lake to enjoy sunlight or even later in the day sunsets.
Screened in porch celebrations with casual breakfasts and lunches are always a highlight of summer days. A bit of coffee, watching hummingbirds and quiet times are always a great way to begin my day.
As we look across green lawns and fields, there are so many opportunities for gathering for us at home.
Although I’ll be attending lots of events elsewhere, the need to host runs deep in this southern girl’s DNA and hosting friends and family at home will be my focus.
Tables set across the lawn make for great gatherings and have a special spot among the casualness of summer life.
There will be lots of friends and family members with feet under my table for lots of outdoor entertaining on the lawn for BBQ’s and candlelight conversation.
A simple table, a tablecloth, fresh flowers, and candlelight will be enjoyed by all for warm summer evenings with the setting sun and less than sweltering temperatures of the day.
Simple place settings with summer linens and dishes give a warm and welcoming feeling.
The tablecloth can be just a simple drop cloth or quilt to add casualness and yet a “you are special” touch when allowed to touch the ground. Make it easy and what you have on hand.
Fresh flowers from the flower garden or even your local grocers extend their beauty to the table and just add a magical touch of hospitality and charm.
Enjoy the summer sounds among you or the gentle sound of a portable speaker for the right background music that doesn’t overshadow the conversations.
Great favorite foods that offer cool summer favorites and warm offerings from the grill make the world a better place.
Whether it’s grilled garden skewers or street corn, a great steak or hamburgers, watermelon, salads, or cobbler and homemade ice cream, the menu will be full of all the favorites.
Adding citronella oil or candles to ward away the insects drawn to the lights will be a must. Strings of lights just provide a more welcoming ambiance to the evening.
There will be evenings that take their place in etched memories in our minds. The lingering evenings, even in July, simply remind us to stop, have great conversations, enjoy the laughter and reflection that being together provides.
The peace of mind and respite it offers in the middle of summer months is priceless. All those summer moments in casual play are vital for all of us.
There’s simply nothing that can replace being together. Enjoy precious times this month, friends. The summer days of lingering will be gone before we know it.
