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The Illuminated Garden

What ever happened to the lazy days of summer? This year my schedule has been crazier than ever. It seems I'm on the run from the moment I finish my first cup of morning coffee until well after dusk. I feel like the Greek mythological character Sisyphus rolling that rock up the hill. I don't have time to recognize any of my accomplishments before I'm on to the next project. I'm sure there are many of you who can relate!

Recently, I was rushing home after an early evening appointment and passed a street cafe setting up for the dinner crowd. I glanced over just as the waiter plugged in a string of lights and the place just came alive. I imagined laughter, conversation and cheer filling the cafe and thought to myself, "I need to have more fun and rejoice in my garden and make this the summer of celebrations."

To kick off the new plan I took my cue from the street cafe and set up a festive area in my garden that glitters with lights at night.

I already had some chairs in place, so all I needed were the lights. As I shopped around, I discovered that the product choices are amazing. Outdoor lighting isn't just for Christmas anymore. I found beaded garlands, fiber optic "grasses," and even grapes that light up. I was also delighted to learn that it's now possible to install lights in a garden without electricity. Not being tied to an electrical outlet opened all kinds of possibilities. I bought hanging lanterns, wreaths, and pillar candles all powered by batteries. And the LED technology keeps the lights cool so they are safe to string on my plants.

Once I had everything in place I invited a few friends over for the official garden illumination ceremony; our first get together of the summer of celebrations.

I love my new party spot. Whether I'm entertaining or just gathering my thoughts after a long day, it's a nice reminder that life is full of joy as well as hard work.

I encourage you to create something similar in your garden. Heck you don't even need a garden. A patio, front porch or balcony will do. All you need are a place to sit, outdoor lighting and a little joie de vivre.

Here are some fun lighting ideas to get you started. Visit www.gkilights.com to learn more.

Grapes	Battery Operated Tea Lights
Clear Globe Kringle String Lights	Net Lights
Battery Operated Pillar Candle Lights	Illuminated Roses