Page 6 summer 2014 As dusk settles upon your backyard, don’t hesitate to greet the darkness with light. There is nothing more calming than soft twinkling bulbs and a low flame fire sprinkled throughout your sanctuary. Start creating this enchanting look by stringing white lights through your trees or by framing your patio with the strands. Decorative candle holders are also great colorful additions for any tabletop. While fire pits and fireplaces are often excellent focal points in a sanctuary, as the weather heats up the last thing you’ll want to do is add more warmth to the atmosphere. Instead, consider enhancing these pieces with lighted candles. This enables you to enjoy a much softer glow from what will become a fantastic conversation piece. The furniture pieces you choose for your sanctuary should not only be inviting, but allow you to melt right into them. Choose pieces that speak to you as being the epitome of relaxation. Chaise lounges, love seats, and wrought iron gliders will surely bring you to a peaceful state. Place them in positions for conversation, or in a little nook that is solely for you. Whatever seating you choose for your sanctuary, don’t forget to dress it up with soft cushions and throw pillows. Consider choosing patterns encompassing the colors blue or green, which represent calmness, harmony, and relaxation. Heighten the mood of your outdoor sanctuary with the sounds of serenity. Invite good company over to share your haven, as lighthearted conversations and laughter can be very uplifting for the soul. Music is also another way to raise your spirits. Fill your iPod with your favorite tunes and watch as your stresses are cast away with the rhythmic beat. Another way to create a fully relaxing atmosphere is to embrace the murmurs of nature. Add a fountain to enjoy the trickling sounds of water, or hang a chime in a tree and make the wind come alive. Or, simply listen for the crickets’ evening tune, which can be heard all summer long. All of these sounds will lead you to a clearer mind. Indulge your sense of smell with fragrances from nature. Camelback Flowershop in Arcadia provided suggestions of plants and flowers that are known for their tranquility and ability to promote relaxation. Surround your sanctuary with hanging planters, flower pots, or even plant your own herb garden. The warm summer winds will carry these fresh aromas throughout your yard. Suggestions: Lavender, Rosemary, Scented Geraniums, Basil, Climbing Jasmine, Chocolate Mint. For a nightly surprise, consider planting Fragrant Evening Primrose. This sweet smelling plant blooms every evening after the sun sets, closing its petals after the sun rises. Outdoor Sanctuary By Kathleen Shipman Photo Credit: Christine Johnson Soothe Your Senses with Your Own W hen the day is done, there is only one thought that comes to mind… relaxation. Your home is known to be your haven, and the one place where you can fulfi ll this desire. Neighbors, Christine Johnson and Jeff Hebets have taken this idea to a whole new level, as they have transformed their backyards into peaceful sanctuaries. Learn how you too can relax your mind, body, and soul by designing your own outdoor escape. Take a peek into the backyards of these Arcadia residents for inspiration, as we provide you with tips on how to “soothe your senses” and create your own personal sanctuary. colorful additions for any tabletop. While fire pits and fireplaces are often excellent focal points in a sanctuary, as the weather heats up the last thing you’ll want to do is add more warmth to Sight state. Place them in positions for conversation, or in a little nook that is Touch iPod with your favorite tunes and watch as Sound Scented Geraniums, Basil, Climbing Jasmine, Chocolate Mint. sweet smelling plant blooms every evening after the sun Scent

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