HOW TO ENJOY A SIZZLING SUMMER

June 21st marked the first day of Summer 2011 this means it's time to start prepping your home for summer. Time to start enjoying those hot summer days, cool summer nights, 9pm sunset, days laying out on the beach,and BBQs with the family. Having a few things in place as summer hits will help you feel more relaxed and ready to enjoy the next 94 days of summer!

1. BUH-BYE WINTER, HELLO BEAUTIFUL SUNSHINE!

After a long dragged on winter, and a cold rainy spring aren't you happy to say hello to the hot sun of summer? Sometimes I get so caught up in summer that I forget that there is even a season called Winter (almost).  To put yourself in the utmost summer-like mode update your accessories to light and brighter colours. Trade in your winter/spring items like blankets and winter clothes, thick curtains for fresh cut flowers, and a portable fan. Going shopping for a new summer wardrobe that will keep you in style is also a great way to get ready for the heat all summer long.

2. GO ON A SUMMER DIET

Before you go out shopping or even start looking at furniture take measurements of your entire living space (ie. Living room, bedroom, plus every corner and crevice). Know exactly what space you have, where you plan on putting your basic furniture pieces, areas that you can maximize or that are unchangeable. If it helps create a visual by drawing out, or requesting a floor plan (if you're condo offers this)

3.  GET YOUR FRIENDS TOGETHER 

After your fridge is summer ready it's time to invite your friends and family over. Summer is the best time for this, not only can you guys enjoy the outdoors together, you can show off your hosting and cooking skills as well. Make it fun by throwing a BBQ and telling all your friends to come. Play a little music, some games with laughter and you're already off to a good start to throwing am amazing summer party.  Plus, it also gives you a chance to practice all your summer favourites and get the opinions of your friends on your new summer menu items. Another fun thing about summer is the amusement and waterparks; this is another great way to spend a hot day with friends or family.

4. KEEP THE BUGS AWAY

One thing I HATE about summer is the attack of the mosquitoes. This year has been extremely horrible too; you cannot even walk outside without a bug bite. Those little buggers will put a damper on any beautiful summer night when they’re swarming around you, and eating you alive. To prevent this get the tools to keep them away! Pick up some bug spray, lanterns for your backyard, install window/door screens. Don’t let the uncomfortable bug situation stop you from enjoying your summer.

5. KEEP COOL ALL SUMMER LONG

Summer could easily change its name to HOT. When it gets up to 30degres with no breeze in sight you have to find ways to keep yourself cool. First things first if you have the luxury of air conditioning turn it on, or get one installed. If you’re not able to install air conditioning unit for whatever reason a good alternative is a fan, a couple of them around the house will keep the place cool.  In the summer taking cold showers a couple of times a day always works for keeping you cool, I swear by this tip. There is nothing more refreshing than a cold shower on a hot sweaty day. The most important rule of these is drinking plenty of water, with heat at all times high it is easy to become dehydrated. Keep a bottle of water close to you at all times so it’s their when you need it.