Home and family have never been quite so important as they are right now. Both provide sanctuary, comfort, and a way of making sense of our new reality. As we look around our own homes and gardens, we realize how much inspiration they provide for capturing the spirit of high summer.
We’re also thrilled to introduce our intern, Lydia Brown, who will be learning a bit about what goes into creating this lifestyle blog, while sharing with us what she knows about photography and technology. We look forward to sharing her photos with you. Welcome Lydia!
*This post contains Amazon affiliate links. Please see full disclosure below. All opinions remain our own.
You don’t have to look far for inspiration when it comes to making your home sparkle in August. Enliven your living spaces with a trip to the garden center; many outdoor plants can be used indoors, with the added bonus that some can be planted outdoors once you’re done with them. Below, a red Mandevilla, a tropical climber that you can find at most nurseries, goes well with the touches of red found in fabrics and accessories, and draws the eye to the center of the room. Ferns are excellent house plants and add a cooling spray of greenery. They’re surprisingly forgiving as long as they don’t dry out.
Create a summery vignette for your fireplace mantel by adding shells and other seasonal accents.* Prop starfish along the mantel, on window sills, or any place they will bring a smile.
Daisies and sunflowers will make your interiors, or your bicycle,* feel summery and cheerful.
The August garden can look tired and ragged around the edges, but these plants stand up to the heat with a minimum of fuss and water. Old-fashioned dahlias and hollyhocks bring a nostalgic feeling to any garden, and right now, we really need to feel anchored and secure. Gardens can provide us with a much needed emotional balm, bringing us scents, sounds, and warm reminders of gardens past.
Also pictured below are annual sunflowers, easily grown from seed, and perennial sunflowers, or helianthus, a tough, drought hardy plant. Both make superb cut flowers.
A row of brightly colored Adirondack chairs adds an irreverent touch in the garden below.
Though the world seems topsy-turvey right now, that’s no excuse not to entertain your own family. It’s always a good time to dine outdoors, and these summery “faux” paper plates* will make ordinary occasions feel special. Grab a blanket and set-up an impromptu picnic or read under the warmth of the summer sun.
Using local produce, like tomatoes, peaches, herbs, and honey is one of summer’s delights. A favorite pizza takes advantage of Mission figs, which come into our supermarkets in August. They pair beautifully with Gorgonzola or other pungent, sharp cheese.
Grilled corn-on-the cob is a delight in August, when corn is at its peak. Try our method of grilling it, then brushing the ears with melted butter mixed with lime and cayenne pepper. Finish by dusting it with finely grated Parmesan cheese.
For fans of tomato sandwiches, we’ve got a variation that’s guaranteed to please.
We’d hate to let summer go by without getting out to enjoy our beautiful New England beaches and parks. If you can do it safely, you’ll be so much happier getting out than staying cooped up. Fresh air, sunshine, and physical activity will keep you mentally and physically healthy. There are plenty of ways to avoid close contact with crowds.
Being on or near the water can create distance by virtue of, well, lots of water between you and others. Avoid crowded bike and hiking trails,* opting instead for less frequently used trails, or use them at off-times.
A solitary walk along a marina will be appreciated by boat and water lovers. Newburyport’s numerous trails provide options for both.
Although you might think twice before going to your favorite lobster pound this year, you can have your own lobster dinner at home.* Some supermarkets will even steam them for you if you don’t have the means to do so.
Let us know how you’re maintaining normalcy this summer. What are some of your favorite ways to use fresh produce? How are you making the most of your garden, home, or parks? Comment below!
*New England Home and Garden is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Influencer/Associates Program, an influencer/affiliate advertising program designed to provide means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to https://www.amazon.com/shop/newenglandhomeandgarden. This means if you click on the link and purchase an item, we earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain our own.
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