It’s here folks, the official summer solstice–the day where we frolic in the longest daylight of the year. Where I live this means we can enjoy dinner outdoors until the sun retreats leisurely beyond the horizon of the Pacific just after 8:00 pm. Worldwide interpretation of the event has varied among cultures, but for the majority recognition of fertility involving holidays, festivals, gatherings, rituals or other celebrations are forthright. Did someone say celebration? Better tidy up the nest and invite friends and family over for an impromptu feast outdoors. Keep it simple and cozy with a cultivated look by stowing amenities close at hand. Don’t worry if you do not have an appropriate sized table to fit all your amigos. Get creative with makeshift table wear. Enjoy path-side picnicking with café tables and for the little ones durable and colorful plastic are tres chic.Serve with style by entertaining with a cart especially if you have a tight space. Layer it up and increase your lounge time by rolling out an all-weather rug to define seating area. Plump over-sized pillows to make seating inviting. Mix larger solid pillows with smaller contrasting or patterned ones for some additional pop. Remember to stash cushions and blankets in baskets or storage ottomans nearby to cuddle up when the sun sets. Don’t forget the sparkle, candle lights and string lights cast a warm glow at night and encourage guest to lounge and digest all of your delicious aperitifs, tapas and desserts. There is so much to love about the great outdoors in the summer months. Shift your living to your deck or patio. Have a bench in the garage waiting for that spur-of-the-moment gathering? What about that forgotten fold-up plastic table somewhere–throw a bright or striped tablecloth on it to transform your space. Use natural centerpieces like stones and shells from a summer beach holiday or even the bounty of your garden. Remember those bottles you saved in your cupboard for something. Fill them with agua and put your fresh herbal or floral clippings in them. Finally, create abundant platters from your summer harvest for passing and sharing. The word solstice derives from Latin sol (sun) and sistere (to stand still). May your nest be blessed with lots of sunshine this summer and remember to stand still and enjoy it!