Hedges I love!

I just adore the hedges at France's Chateau de Courances.  I have a few great hedges in my gardens at home but I have been inspired by Tom Woodham's article in Veranda.  Check it out! (photo by Linda McHam for Veranda)

Cute Kids Centerpiece

At our little get together a few weeks ago I set up a children's table that was such a hit I just had to share it with you.  I put four child size picnic tables together and covered them with white craft paper right off the roll.  I tied them down with ribbons as the winds were powerful that day but your wouldn't need to if you did it indoors.  We filled clear heavy glass vases with colorful Crayola Play Sand (see yesterday's blog entry) and then stuck the crayons inside like a little arrangement.  They had such a blast!  I hope you will do it too!  Send me your photos.

Summer Fun for your Backyard!

If you are spending a little more time at home this summer and little less time on the sandy beaches at your favorite vacation spot I have the perfect tip for you.  For just a few extra dollars, you could add some colorful fun to your sandbox with Crayola Play Sand.  I used it at a party a few weeks ago and asked the kids to have a sandcastle building contest.  We set up four sand boxes, each with a different color of sand, and gave them all of the tools necessary to create a masterpiece!  It was so much fun!  The sand is available at Walmart Garden Centers and it will be a hit with your guests, old and young!

Greener Gifts...

I just came home from a baby shower that gave a little bit of "green" to the gifts.  The invitation stated:  -for a greener event, please bring your gift unwrapped-!  How great!  Even though I love wrapping gifts this did save me a few minutes of rushing around before the event and I love the concept.  What ideas do you have to make your events more earth friendly?  Write to me at askkim@kimberlyschlegel.com.