One of my favorite places to relax is at the beach. The sound of the ocean and the shore birds, paired with the feeling of the warming sun on my back and under my toes on the sand puts me into a relaxing trance. And boy do I work up an appetite staring at the horizon all day. Thank goodness I can stroll onto the boardwalk to indulge in favorite summertime treats when I become too hungry to sit still a moment longer. Even if you don't have easy access to this idyllic summer pastime, you can recreate the mood and flavors of the seaside when you host a Boardwalk Theme Party.

_{Photo © Donna Pilato}

In recent years, wineries have become places to spend a relaxing weekend afternoon. They host festivals with music, wine tasting events, or simply welcome visitors to stop by to try their different varieties. In the spirit of this hospitality, some wineries even provide picnic tables where you can relax with a newly purchased bottle of wine and the picnic lunch you've brought along. Such a fun way to hang out with friends or create a romantic outing with someone special. Here's what to pack for your next winery picnic.

_{Photo © Paul Thomas/Getty Images Friends relaxing at a winery.}

This weekend we will be hosting family who are visiting us for my daughter's Confirmation celebration. As much as I try to keep our home tidy on a day-to-day basis, and although I know that no one will be pulling out the white glove test, there's nothing like houseguests to kick the cleaning into high gear! Here's a handy checklist to make sure your home will be ready the next time you entertain houseguests. I'll have it with me throughout today.

_{Take Your Party to the Beach}

The summer season brings even the most die-hard winter hibernators finally out of their caves, ready to meet the world. That's probably why so many of us love to entertain during the summer months. Our overall stress level is lower, and the only problem we have with hosting a party during the summer season is choosing just what type of party would be best. Here are my suggestions for the best parties for the summer season.

_{Photo © Donna Pilato}