Shh. Stay calm. If we don't talk about the fact that summer is winding down, then surely the long, lazy days will continue forever, right? Right? So let's ignore the calendar and immerse ourselves in these summertime images, culled from the August back issues of the magazines taking over my bookshelves.
Nasturtiums, zinnias, and daisies tumble from a galvanized bucket, making for a perfect picnic centerpiece. After lunch, how about a dip in the lake--or perhaps a romantic paddle in a canoe?
As my redecorating projects progress, I'm becoming seriously obsessed with wallpaper. This playful yet sophisticated floral takes the cake!
Look at the gleam on those robin's egg floors. A brave move to be sure--and one that works surprisingly well! This cheery palette reminds me of a lovely baby shower I threw a while back...
This is just the sort of vignette that makes me want to lounge in bed all day. Give me a good book and a breezy open window, and I'm a happy girl!
With June's peonies a distant memory, a block printed peony curtain is the next best thing. I especially adore the juxtaposition of an ethnic print along the hem--a clever graphic contrast!
No summer is complete without plenty of outdoor dinners by candlelight. Weathered bistro chairs add to the intimate mood, while pink hydrangeas radiate warmth in the evening's glow.
The piece de resistance, from one of my all-time favourite Domino spreads. Chintz wallpaper gets center stage, with a supporting cast of crisp sheets and a striped French linen throw. Decorate a room like this, and you could have August all year 'round!
Image Credits: 1, 2. Martha Stewart Living, August 2008 3, 4. Blueprint, July/August 2007 5. Martha Stewart Living, August 2007 6,7. House & Garden Magazine, August 2007 8. Domino, August 2008.
These are all so lovely! And your sentiments for each are perfect -- great finds, Anne!
Posted by: Kristin @ Contented Me | August 04, 2009 at 07:34 AM
oh yes, I have been thinking about the same today: I don't want summer to end!... but that's how it goes...
beautiful images, as always!
have a lovely day, darling, xoxo
Posted by: Susan | August 04, 2009 at 07:37 AM
I love those peony drapes! It all goes by too quickly... I need some time off to savour the next few weeks!
Posted by: Jane Flanagan | August 04, 2009 at 07:41 AM
That yellow wallpaper is beautiful. It would make such an amazing accent wall.
Posted by: Erin | August 04, 2009 at 07:47 AM
I love the simplicity of the pink flowers by the bed. I am trying to simplify the clutter in my room but it's such a challenge! I admire the cohesive style in all of these photos. It's inspiring!
Posted by: Emily | August 04, 2009 at 08:09 AM
very pretty, very evocative
Posted by: Norine | August 04, 2009 at 08:24 AM
I'm refuse to believe that the summer is winding down. The fun is just starting! I love the second tablescape.
Posted by: Melanie | August 04, 2009 at 08:53 AM
Tell, me about it! Toronto has been having some awfully rainy days! How I wish I have that outdoor dining table under a tree, though!
Posted by: jen laceda | August 04, 2009 at 08:54 AM
I want to move into that kitchen. And stay forever.
Posted by: Amy@OldSweetSong | August 04, 2009 at 09:01 AM
oh how I wish I'd be sitting at that beautiful table, full of colorful flowers!
Posted by: caroline @ patagonia gifts | August 04, 2009 at 09:06 AM
Absolutely beautiful photos! I love every single one of them. Especially the second one. Those flowers are perfect for a little late-summer picnic.
Posted by: christina | August 04, 2009 at 09:08 AM
I know what you mean about wondering how in the world August creeped up so fast-it seems like just last week I was heading home for the summer, hard to believe I'm leaving for school again in just a few weeks!
Lovely images as always!
Posted by: Megan | August 04, 2009 at 09:11 AM
Beautiful Post.
Andrea
Posted by: Andrea | August 04, 2009 at 09:12 AM
I think galvanized buckets with flowers are the prettiest things ever. That's why they were the centerpieces for my springtime wedding! Thank you for sparking such a sweet memory.
Posted by: Heidi | August 04, 2009 at 10:19 AM
Ah! Each photo in this post is lovelier than the next!
Posted by: Amy I. | August 04, 2009 at 11:10 AM
Lovely photos - but I still can't wait for October...I heart fall...
Posted by: Waxy | August 04, 2009 at 11:42 AM
I want to live in everyone of this pictures!
Posted by: Bells | August 04, 2009 at 02:41 PM
awesome amazing!
by the way I am having a giveaway! i would really like your support.
Posted by: franco | August 04, 2009 at 06:59 PM
Such pretty photos...the first two are my fave. Long live the days of summer but the extreme heat can go away. ;-)
{ Lindsey }
http://greatfullday.blogspot.com
Posted by: lindsey | August 04, 2009 at 07:18 PM
how amazing is it that is is august already? I am IN LOVE with that last image... delish!
Posted by: mk | August 04, 2009 at 07:19 PM
Beautiful images. I love alfresco dining during the warmer months. Only one more month until it's spring time again in Australia!
Posted by: Amanda~Weekend Host | August 04, 2009 at 09:20 PM
This summer has been flying by...
These are fabulous images! They remind me of the dinners my Mom puts together - so naturally beautiful...it's something I will never, ever forget, and want to be able to do for my own family. There are some great little ideas in these images, as well, I might add.
On a side note, that hallway with the wallpaper is so pretty! I love how they've done the hooks for the handbag, hat, and jacket, also.
Posted by: Sarah Klassen/Haute Design | August 04, 2009 at 10:39 PM
Gorgeous photos Anne! Basking in these rich colours and generous patterns brightens my day!
Posted by: The Deco Detective | August 05, 2009 at 01:14 AM
This post captures the mood of a beautiful August day.
I'm a little obsessed with wallpaper at the moment as well.
You're right, that yellow wallpaper is divine.
xo
Brooke
Posted by: velvet and linen | August 05, 2009 at 03:28 AM
ALL so gorgeous! i also can't believe its august. the summer is coming to an end + it makes me so sad!
Posted by: suann | August 05, 2009 at 03:53 AM