My husband has a green thumb. It turns out that, in addition to gorgeous, generous and good (and George, of course), G stands for gardener. Not only has he built three new enclosed raised bed areas to add to the two we already had, but he has planted them with a chef's dream of choice vegetables and herbs. Last night I picked succulent fresh mustard greens and tender young garlic, sauteed them up with little chunks of chorizo and tossed it all with some brown rice pasta. Dinner happens in an instant when it comes from your backyard. At first I was a little cranky that I have been working too hard to be involved in the planting this year, but now I just feel spoiled. But enough about me. How are you spending this first holiday weekend of the season? If you've got any free time, check out some of these interesting ideas and resources I have been collecting for you this month.

The perfect quaff for ushering in the summer

And the tool you need to make it perfectly

How to get ready for bikini season, here

My plan for warding off insects involves this

I'm obsessed with this maverick garden designer

These look like a delicious alternative to Pok Pok's drinking vinegars

Don't miss out on Portland Apothecary's fabulous summer share

Marvel at the artistry of these extraordinary glassworks

Add your own words of wisdom here

A must-bake from Nancy Silverton (I will use C4C gluten-free flour)

New foodcentric podcasts (and one oldie but goodie)

Inspiring on so many levels

Volume 2 of Cultivated Days - are you following this beautiful blog yet?

Nobody builds a brand like Andy Spade

Exceptional writing and photography here

Take up birding

The ideal summer read - fast, furious and fantastic (learn more about the writer here)

This short series from director Jane Campion, starring Elisabeth Moss (Mad Men's Peggy Siegel), is great fun

ENJOY YOUR TIME OFF, SWEET FRIENDS! xo