The Top 10 Summer Must-Haves

Ahhh … the promise of warm, sunny days and a slower, gentler pace to life arrives with the transition from spring into summer. With the extended daylight hours, I do feel like my days seem longer and more productive on many levels.

After a year of uncertainty with an assortment of lockdowns and stay-at-home orders, it’s nice to finally see the world opening up. The promise of gathering with friends, day outings to the beach or simply enjoying the backyard makes me simply giddy.

Here is a curated collection of summer things I simply love. Whether something that adds a bit of functionality or fun to your life, I think there’s something for everyone.

Vertical Garden

I addressed this wonderful discovery in last year’s “5 amazing Summer Discoveries”  post, and I cannot even begin to tell you what a game changer this vertical garden  has been! Not only do I feel I have better control over the soil quality for my vegetable gardens, but having the garden vertical versus the traditional version has meant that the backbreaking weeding task is a thing of the past.

I will confess that I did buy 2 units: one for my assorted tomatoes and peppers, as well as a second one closer to the house for my array of fresh herbs.

Its contemporary sleek appearance is sharp, and the assembly was rather fast and easy. This would be amazing for apartment/condo dwellers who are short on space.

Ceramic Bird Planter

To add a little playfulness to your outdoor patio, why not incorporate this lovely ceramic bird planter. Part of the Torre & Tagus  home decor line, it would be sweet with a flowing vine, but I love to use my for my succulents.

Robin Egg Blue Outdoor Fridge

Those who know me, know I have this thing for robin egg blue colour. Its fresh, happy hue was the perfect outdoor accent to our newly refurbished upper deck.I simply love the retro vibe of this cute Kuppert mini fridge (and that colour!!!) Fully stocked with juices and assortment of bevvies, you’d never have to wander far for a cold one!

Insulated Wine Tumblers

And speaking of a cold one… we know there is a plethora of double walled stainless steel wine glasses on the market, but whether for you or as a hostess gift, how wonderful are these? Made of a food grade 18/8 stainless steel, these Simple modern Spirit tumblers are vacuum walled and double insulated to ensure your beverage stays cold. Available in a multitude of colours and patterns, it will be tough to decide which ones to get.

Freezie Bags

Whether for the kids or someone a kid at heart, nothing says summer like a freezie. Though the term “freezie” is commonly used in Canada, it does go by other names around the world. Called freeze pop, pop ice, freezer pop, and otter pop in the United States, ice lolly and ice pole in the United Kingdom, zooper dooper in Australia, and ice candy in the Philippines and Japan it is an iconic summer treat.

I love these popsicle bags   from Ozera as I can control the amount of sugar, taste intensity and nutritional content. ( I can’t lie… they do make for excellent “spiked” mojito pops as well!). It’s a definite Must-Have whether for the kids or adults and this kit comes with a convenient silicone funnel to simplify the process.

Ceramic Grill

This discovery came by a bit of a misfortune: my Webber gas grill of over ten years finally has a breakdown with one of its valves. Quite frankly as I used it 12 months out of the year on a (very) regular basis, I am surprised that it has lasted so long without a hiccup.

The part needed replacing had a very long lead-time and as I simply could NOT live without a grill, the purchase of a  was required. Now there are inexpensive non-ceramic versions out there, but I have to tell you the even heat distribution and retention of a ceramic grill is outstanding. The workmanship and finishes are superb, and the deliciousness of anything barbequed is out of this world. I may have to do a separate post just on the recipes I tried on this bad boy!

Table Cloth Weights

Who doesn’t love dining al fresco on a gorgeous summer eve? It truly is one of the season’s all time favourite rituals. I have tried to tame my table cloth on the more breezy evenings, but the clips-though effective- lose a certain je ne sais quoi when it comes to the aesthetic of your table setting.

These tablecloth weights  are not only effective, but they have a whimsical charm about them.

The Ultimate Beach Chair

Is the hike to the beach a bit of a mission with all the things you have to carry? Well look no further than this Ostrich On Your Back beach chair . Back straps means a hands free transport and it feature a wide frame, cup holder, and face cut out for those who want to read on their tummy. I truly think it’s the best pack and go beach chair on the market.

The Perfect Sun Shade

If you’re in need of a bit of a break from the sun, this sun shade  by Umardoo is not only effective, but versatile as well. Use all 4 poles for a canopy, or just 2 for shade not only from the sun, but wind as well. Generously sized, it’s perfect for 5-6 adults and beach gear.

Mosquito Repellent

The summer months often come with uninvited, pesky visitors: mosquitos. I have to say as I’ve gotten older, my tolerance of these annoying and persistently hungry insects has waned significantly. I discovered this brand one weekend at my sister’s cottage. Cottage country is relaxing and beautiful, but it does come with its own special level of mosquitos in the hotter months.

The Thermacell insect repellent does not require flame or candles, is DEET and scent free whilst providing a 15 foot area of protection. Available in 10 fabulous colours.Perfect for the patio, deck or camping.

There you have it: my 10 top Must-Haves for summer 2021. Have you discovered something fabulous for summer that you’d like to share?

xoxo ~ Sandra