Make the transition from spring to summer with these easy tips.
By Paula Aquilina-Shin
Nothing rejuvenates the spirit like the arrival of spring. As colour and warmth start to seep back into your life, here are a few things to do (both inside and outside your home) to celebrate spring and usher in the summer months.
1 Get your grill on The central cooking source of your summer entertaining, make sure your grill is in good working order. Scrub down internal racks and change lava rocks that may be lingering from last season. Treat yourself to some new tools of the trade -- a basting mop, grilling basket, non-stick skewers and scissor tongs. • See our wine list to complement a summer grill menu.
2 Fresh flower arranging Whether you take a course for fun or gather ideas from magazines, now is the perfect time to brush up on the art of flower arranging. Think of creative containers, mix unexpected elements and play with texture and colour to give your centerpieces unconventional flair.
3 Set out your outdoor furniture Arrange your outdoor furniture as you would your indoor furniture -- essentially turning your porch or deck into a second living room. Establish a space for eating, group conversation and a more intimate nook for enjoying an after dinner drink or an afternoon read.
4 Repaint trim and doors High-traffic use of doors and abuse of baseboards can leave a space looking worn and dingy. A quick coat or two of paint on trims and interior doors can instantly refresh your home. Choose a shade darker or lighter than what you currently have to introduce a new contrast with an existing wall colour.
5 Service your air conditioner Central air conditioners consume a lot of electricity and without regular service, your air conditioner's efficiency can fall by as much as half. Call for servicing now before the temperature spikes, demand for service increases and the cost of a house call goes up.
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