Hot Ideas for Cool Summer Drinks

Need help cooling off this summer holiday? Check out some of these great drink ideas for your next summer outing. Fresh apple juice during the summer months is great, but apple slushies are that much better. Tart but sweet at the same time, the apple flavour adds a nice twist to the traditional slushed beverage.

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Like the fresh flavours of citrus in the summertime? Lime is a fantastic ingredient for refreshing summer drinks. Whether it's a classic mojito with fresh-squeezed lime or a glass of limeade, all of the drinks below are guaranteed to be a success. Try simply adding slices of lime to spice up more basic beverages as well. Soda water with lime and cucumber (or muddled kiwi) is a popular mix among my family!

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Coconut is a classic creamy flavour for the summer holidays. Mix it with pineapple to create a classic pina colada, or else stick a straw right in! Coconut milk is a tasty beverage in itself. For another tropical mix, blend in a banana and top it off with a miniature umbrella to really kick off this summer holiday.

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Blooming Beauties

Although it may be a little late to plant flowers to bloom this summer, it's always a great time to pick out the ones that you would like in your garden boxes next year. When choosing flowers for your yard, make sure you consider the climate in which you live. Each flower has its own personality, and this greatly affects how it will grow and survive in your region. Make sure to also read the labels that come with the flowers when you pick them out at the nursery. They will let you know quick tips such as whether or not that particular flower is suited for shade. Below are some summer-blooming flowers that I found particularly eye-catching!

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A Treat of Heavenly Goodness

Roasting marshmallows is a popular pastime during the summer holidays, but have you ever tried roasting these marshmallows? After first having tried homemade raspberry marshmallows a couple of months ago, I have since fallen in love with many different flavours of the fluffy treat. Chocolate marshmallows are fantastic for roasting over the campfire, while fruit flavoured marshmallows add a nice look to any cup of hot chocolate on a cooler summer night. Coconut marshmallows (try Jet-Puffed Toasted Coconut) are my absolute favourite, and are a dessert in themselves!

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Get Creative with Summer Baking

Get baking this summer! With so many unique ways of presenting your baking skills, why not try out all of them? The cupcake pops and ice cream-shaped cupcakes are bound to be a crowd pleaser at any family gathering, especially with kids. I also love the flower shaped cupcake tins- it's an easy way to add a creative spin onto any cupcake recipe. For a more traditional setting, look for fruits that are in season to make delicious pies. Guaranteed they will be enjoyed!

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For the more "seasoned" baker, try some of these great baking tips! Use different piping tips for frosting; each tip gives an entirely different look to the treat. Also, props are a fantastic way of adding that something-extra to your baked goods. Visit your local craft supplies store to find miniature figures for your baking. Also, different ingredients such as coconut and graham cracker crumbs will add an extra dimension to your baked treats; check out this idea on the beach cupcake at the bottom. For a fun gathering, why not try out a cupcake-cake? It's a fun and artistic project to work on for this summer holiday. The turtle is just one of many possible designs!

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Light Up Summer Nights

When the sun goes down, summery-themed lanterns and candles are a great way to decorate that front porch or backyard pergola. I especially like the vibrant reds and golds for late night marshmallow roasting. The intensity of the colours keeps the warmth of summer going all night long. For a beachy theme, try using antiqued candleholders of various shapes, and round hanging lanterns that sway nicely in the summer breeze.

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A Summer of Seasonal Fruits

Seasonal fruits are a great selection for any summertime gathering. While simple fruit salads are always a favourite, mix it up at your next party with some of these fresh ideas. Try fruit-filled tea sandwiches, very berry cakes, and sweet fruit tarts!

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