Summertime and the Livin' is Easy

For our July issue we decided to feature backyard parties, and what would be better than a backyard barbecue? The idea of a party with several people seemed almost exotic since it had been so long since we had done such a thing. But everything is open now and we’re all in for opening up. Our barbecue included a few family members and friends. The beautiful yard and grill were contributed by Malissa Mickelson. Dinner was provided by our art director, Margaret Bowles, and master coordinator was Cooper Mickelson. Every angle was covered, from food to beverages to games and music. We used serving and decor items from Benicia shops (Romancing the home and Happy Life Pottery), food and beverages (Bruehol Brewery and Mt. Beautiful wines) and food from local gardens and grocery stores. Family, old friends and new enjoyed themselves immensely and toasted the beginning of summer.

It’s also the season to enjoy some summer camping. Jon and I have always tent camped, but we are contemplating joining the RV crowd. So, we recently decided to try a small trailer. We rented the trailer through RVShare and chose a campsite close to home, in one of Russian River’s great campgrounds. It was great fun and so relaxing! We liked being able to leave the trailer and take a drive to the coast where we could picnic on the beach and Emmy, our greyhound, could run free. It was so refreshing to be in nature. When we returned, Emmy jumped out of the car, looked at the house, looked at the trailer, and jumped back in the car. Clearly she thinks life on the road is grand.

Enjoy the summer, the outdoors and our beautiful town!

Mary

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