The Summer House design}
Written by Kristan Clark of Bestow Heart and Home Photographed by Camp-n-Cottage
My dearest friend, Michele, has created the sweetest little retreat in her wooded backyard. Surrounded by towering pine trees, natural grounds, and fountains, the little house beckons one to enjoy nature in comfort. Christened “The Summer House”, it’s been the stage of many a gathering and some heart-to-heart conversations. Today she’s invited me to enjoy classic summer fare; ripe peaches, fresh picked cherries from along the orchards on Flathead Lake, ice cream drizzled with honey, petite cookies and ginger ice tea. Yum!
SweetTea Ginger and Honey 3 cups water
2 family sized tea bags ½ c honey
1 T. grated fresh ginger 7 cups of cold water Garnish: lemon slices Bring 3 cups of water to a boil; add tea bags. Boil one minute; remove from heat. Cover and steep 10 minutes. Discard tea bags. Stir in honey and ginger. Pour into a 1 gallon container and add 7 cups cold water. Serve over ice. Garnish with lemons, if desired. Michele is a talented artist and hostess and created much of the Summer House from found materials. The stunning arched window that forms one end of the house is a cast off from what was once actress Julia Roberts’ Montana summer home. There’s an ornate leaded window perched above the outdoor kitchen sink where Michele prepares refreshments. Chippie antique doors slide along the front of the house to block the sun or create privacy. Just a few examples of her creativity.
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The tablescape takes its cue from the French bee themed pillows covering the banquet. The yellow gingham checked tablecloth is set with antique plates in summer hues of cream, yellow and soft peach. Ice cream and sweet tea are served in Depression glass, and ‘bee’ towels are used as oversized napkins. Little golden bees are scattered about and one has landed near the golden richness of real honeycomb.