Monday, August 24, 2009

Light up the Night

Ahh- was the weather this weekend not pure perfection!? The mornings were cool, the evenings were cool, the days were warm. It was pure heaven. We have put our yard projects on hold in preparation for our upcoming honeymoon to Hawaii (sorry- you may hear about it a lot this week- I am just so excited!) but I found mini projects just for an excuse to be outside.

Unfortunately, the welts on my ankles are a sure sign that the mosquitos are still around- but for a moment, let's pretend we have a festive evening gather with no mosquitos. We have a beautiful weeping willow tree in the back yard and, once I get it trimmed, I'd love to incorporate some sort of lights.

While many cultures celebrate light, or the breaking of darkness, I am drawn to the Asian tradition of hanging lanterns.

Lanterns via Nikdaum

East Promenade Chinoise Garden via Hagoody Flikr


OK, these might be a little much for our backyard. Here's one that still uses a lot of lights- but see how it illuminates the pathway below?


Garden of Lights-Flikr

Below, another Asian photo- I love how the lanterns weave from tree to tree.

Here are some Eastern influences into the Western world. I love the simplicity of the white against the brown of the trunk and green of the leaves.

Gaiam Shoji Lanterns

And the lights at night...

Some other lantern options... much less Asian influence but still quite pretty.

Sara Kaye Represents




via Absolutely Beautiful Things

Casa Heur
If possible, please enjoy some time outdoors!

-Emmie

8 comments:

  1. The mosquitos are at a Cat 5 Code Red at our place!! But this Atlanta whether is glorious and is why this place is so good. Every porch needs a string or two of Christmas tree lights.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Wow, you've found some really beautiful and inspirational pics! Now I want to plant a tree in our front garden!

    ReplyDelete
  3. I'm so glad to have found your blog! Thanks for visiting mine. I'm glad you enjoyed Anne's home tour and I would love for you to be a part of the City Escapes series if you're still interested.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Ohhhh outdoor lights do make everything nice!

    ReplyDelete
  5. This is so pretty -- such a romantic and sweet glow that they give off -- We added some brightly colored lanterns outside (and one candelabra) and throughout the trees for my grandparent's 50th Anniversary party -- they were inexpensive and added such ambiance :)

    ReplyDelete
  6. I do love these.... They create such a stylish feel. x

    ReplyDelete
  7. They remind me of the Great Hall at Hogwarts!

    ReplyDelete
  8. Hi Thanks for dropping by my blog ... I just loved this post of yours ... guess I am in festive spirits ... here in India ...

    ReplyDelete

Thank you so much for leaving your comments! It means so much to me.