Lunch on the lawn

This was the name of last year's event hosted by Michelle Obama for elementary students which was inspired by healthy eating from the White House garden.  I'm appropriating the title but my venue is far less famous and much more intimate.  My 'lawn' space has hosted many parties but my summer favorites are for the Ladies who Lunch.  I usually set out 2 or 3 tables for four like an al fresco cafe.  It is important when one has a small living space to take advantage of this extended area when the weather allows. 

Peaches and Cream Day

An alternative to strawberries, why not try a peach shortcake.  Some like sponge cakes; others prefer biscuits but choose one and top it with fresh sliced peaches and sweetened whipped cream.  I moisten the shells with some peach schnappes for additional adult flavor. A sprinkle of granola makes a nice garnish.

International Picnic Day

What a fun party!  Spread your blanket and lazily eat.  Caviar, crackers and champagne or a sandwich, salad and soda. High brow or low down good, do it your way.  (Buzz:  someone suggested that if you place a food item several feet away, the ants will all go there and not disturb you)

Invitations

In this 'phone' age, it's nice to receive an invitation in the mail.  Anticipation for a fun atmosphere at your party is created with an eye-catching invite.  Mine are handmade with no apologies for my cutting or coloring skills (or lack thereof).  I feel the attempt speaks to my sincerity.  However, that said, the laborious nature in making them often derails my good intentions.  Sometimes, by the time I conceive of a party idea and its accompanying invitation, time has progressed close to the event.  Case in point: last month's Cinco de Mayo.  The week preceding was heavily scheduled and it wasn't until Monday that the idea of a party was suggested.  Tuesday I emailed a 'Save the Date', planning on hand-delivering invitations on Wednesday and Thursday.  Alas, some invitees had already made plans which is to be expected.  (Buzz:  have a backup list to fill your optimum guest limit).  So I will try to set forth and abide by the following Party Principle:  send invitations 2 weeks prior to event.  This lead time is sufficient for most parties but a more significant event (shower, birthday celebration, etc.) necessitates more advance notice.

June celebrations

June is National Fruit and Vegetable, Rose, Tennis, and Iced Tea month.  The month also celebrates Dairy, Great Outdoors, Drive Safe, and Zoos and Aquariums and includes National Fishing, Camping, and Clay weeks.  June's special days include Donald Duck's, Superman's, Oscar the Grouch's and Garfield's Birthdays; anniversaries of the first US space walk, hot air balloon flight and the Ford motor car; Fly a Kite and Power of a Smile Day, Father's Day, Flag Day, and a most welcomed First Day of Summer and last day of school.