decorate with wicker Archives - A Clean Slate 365

“Summer afternoon; to me those have always been the two most beautiful words in the English Language.” ~ Henry James

Is it hot where you are? Here in Florida, we are well into the long, sunny summer days. Sleeping late. Afternoons at the beach. Crisp, summer salads. Sandals and summer dresses. It’s a time to relax and unwind. Its SUMMERTIME!

Tribute to Tucker

When I started writing this post, my dog Tucker, was right next to me on the sofa as i typed. I started the post, saved it as a draft, and thought I would finish it the next day. Except the next day, Tucker had an emergency and had to be taken to the ER. We do not know what happened as he wasn’t even 4 years old. He died that evening, June 22nd, and left us devastated. I had no idea that afternoon would be my last with him. We still have no idea what went wrong as I was with him all day. We believe it was something internal that we did not know about, an immune reaction to something perhaps? Still, it was like someone reached in and ripped my heart out. I did not want to believe it.

Needless to say, I cried for days. Everywhere I looked and still look, I still see my beautiful, loving dog. I’ve made tributes to him on Rainbow’s Bridge, bought a wind chime with his name engraved, gave donations to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in his honor but it still hurts. I love and miss my dog. I believe he is in heaven and that we will see him again one day. Until then, he will be our guardian angel watching over us.

We love and miss you, Tucker but I know you are chasing tennis balls and frisbee’s over the Rainbow Bridge.

July 4th

Independence Day is almost here and like most folks, hot dogs and hamburgers are the star of our July 4th menu. Patriotic bunting and sunflowers add to the festive look and what summer holiday would be complete without watermelon? Add in some sangria, strawberries, and triple berry crisps for dessert and we are all set. Let the fireworks begin!

Heading out to a July 4th BBQ? Here are a few patriotic, yet comfortable looks for the summer holiday.

Lou and Grey Star V Neck Sweater and Cotton Terry Shorts – Ann Taylor Loft

Clip Strappy Button Midi Dress – Ann Taylor Loft

Star and Stripes Shell – Talbots

Wimbledon

The sporting event that I most look forward to watching in summertime is, without a doubt, Wimbledon. The grandeur of this venue, the level of play, the strawberries and cream, what’s not to love about Wimbledon? This year Wimbledon will be celebrating 100 years of Centre Court. Incredible when you stop and think about how many tennis champions have been crowned in this marvelous stadium.

Please check Wimbledon for more info on news, players, scores, and schedules.

Summer Reads

Don’t forget your book when you head out to the beach or the pool. Here are a few that I recommend.

The Couple at Table Six – I read this one for my book group. If you enjoy a good whodunit with a twist, I recommend this one.

All the Flowers in Paris – I bought this book yesterday and plan to read it on my cruise. Set in World War II Paris, this romantic tale tells the story of love and loss.

One Italian Summer – Set in stunning Italy, this is a story about unconditional love and finding a way forward.

Summer Decor

The coastal grandmother look seems to be the decor of choice at the moment. Living in Florida, it’s a style that is easily achievable all year round. Here are a few ideas to add some coastal decor to your home.

Throw Pillows

One of the easiest ways to change your decor with the seasons is to upgrade your throw pillows. Check out some of these sites below:

Linen and Cloth