Summer Traditions

After such a hard freeze this past winter here in the Mid-Atlantic the early summery temperatures has equaled some major MIA time. This spring garnered seeing all of my family more than I've been with them in the past two years combined, commuting by bike again after 4 months off and reveling in the scent of fresh roses and honeysuckle mingling in the breeze. All of which I'm eternally thankful for!

It also dawned on me that many of the things going on behind the scenes around here have already been featured on the blog. They've become a sort of tradition which definitely feel good to look forward to and finally get working on. That includes everything from being surprised by the first white water lily of the season to gathering roses to replenish a dwindling supply of organic rose water (so good for prickly heat and too much sun!). Here are a few more favorites:

• Making rose flavored syrup as gifts and serving rosy lemonade with sherburt

• Gathering extra rose petals for creating rose perfumes with a hint of chocolate and vanilla

• Cooling down by dousing with neroli infused 4711 cologne

• Taking summer hats out of storage

• Making our own natural bug repellent using a surprising ingredient for garden party guests

• Summer and sailor bracelets goes together like peanut butter and jelly around these parts. Here is a super simple way to make them.

• Still in love with floral crowns? I am too especially for wedding and festival season. Here's how to easily fashion your own in a jiffy.

Wishing everyone a lovely summer season, let's make the best of it! -M

p.s... find out how summer time tastes around here with some favorite recipes.

Image: mam for Gave That