Have you ever been to Southampton? The village is one of ten towns located in the Suffolk County area on Long Island, and is approximately 80 miles from my New York City. It is part of what are referred to as the “East End Towns”, the group of five communities at the East End of the island. It also the largest and most populous, and it’s no wonder, due to the amazing world-class beaches, restaurants, social events, celebrity sighting and benefits. It’s the place to be and be seen. Jet-setters from around the world visit the Hamptons each year and make it their playground for fun in the sun. Some notable past and present residents include Martha Stewart, Ina Garten, Steven Spielberg, and Renee Zellweger. And lets not forget that Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis was also born into the Bouvier clan right in the local Southampton Hospital.

While in Southampton I plan on enjoying long walks on the beach, locally grown produce, fresh seafood, welcoming dear friends as overnight and weekend guests, and of course plenty of cocktails. To me, this is paradise, as the quaint New England villages, trendy restaurants amazing antique stores add to the overall ambiance and experience. Did I mention the exciting nightlife? Oh my, I should keep some secrets.

September in the Hamptons is a wonderful “off season” time of year to enjoy the island. I prefer this time of year as the crowds are gone, the nights are cooler, the ‘little darlings’ are back to school, and I can make a dinner reservation without getting any attitude for being last minute. The result? I’ll get inspired and recharge my soul, all while indulging my love for the ocean, thus creating an environment that offers me prolific inspiration. Are you ready? I’m set to go…Destination Southampton: here I come!

It’s been a while since I blogged about my miniature schnauzer, Violet Annabelle Rose Von Schnorkenheimer, and now that she’s 18 months, fully grown and 12 lbs, I can undoubtedly say she is a teenager.

All children eventually grow up and Violet is no exception. She is smart, well educated, travels and enjoys both the city and country life. But along with all this style and sophistication she has one not-so-refined habit. (Well, two if you count her barking.)

No one would suspect this odd new trait. The fact remains, even once you learn what it is, to look at her one would say she has become quite a regal and refined lady. With her designer Hermes collar, string of fresh water pearls, distinct brown eyes and nose, and happy, affectionate demeanor she often stops people in their tacks, as everyone wants to know what kind of breed she is. In spite of her light taupe color, Violet’s belly still reflects her signature brown markings that I fell in love with. My once little baby girl has become a wonderful lovable pet that I proudly—and often—refer to as my daughter.

That said, pets, a lot like children, sometimes do things that can mortify us, yet still be some how cute and funny. With so many friends visiting this summer, Miss “V” (as so many like to call her) is used to having other people around. She’s developed a fondness for jumping into bed with any of my overnight guests. Yes that’s right, she loves to enter the guestrooms in the middle of the night and sneak a snuggle/hug for a couple of hours. If the door is not completely closed she will push it open by getting a running start. Cute right? But although some people wouldn’t like that, this is still not the unrefined habit I teased. It gets even better.

Last weekend this cute bed-hopping trick was trumped by a new, even more “entertaining” one: opening the bathroom door. My friend, who shall remain nameless, went to the powder room and just at the right moment and without any warning Violet pushed the door open and jumped on her lap. With the door wide open for all to see she began screaming from honor and embarrassment. I quickly came to the rescue to close the door. A week later, while Violet and I visited a friend in town, she once again made a bee line to the bathroom door. I yelled, “Quick…shut the door” too late, as another victim was claimed. I can tell you—more doors will be fully shut in the future, that’s for sure!

This week, as the weather finally broke from the high 90 degree temperatures, I was delighted to return to the garden for some much needed weeding and trimming. This summer, with the heat making it unbearable to be outside, I focused my attention inside on some new fun projects for the upcoming fall season. Stay tuned for those!

Traditionally, August is a time to rest a bit from my active gardening responsibilities. I savor this time off to enjoy house guests and weekend excursions. But this week was different. I dusted off my gardening tools and returned to my garden chores with a vengeance. In the mist of it all, I stopped only once to pick up my mobile phone to make one call. And in less than 24 hours, Ross and his team of expert workers arrived ready to take direction for a new project. So what was this new project…..the extension of my current driveway’s Belgian Block apron another 18 inches. Why? The scale would just be better.

An authentic cobblestone detail, a.k.a. Belgian Block, can also be used as a driveway border or edging, or as a raised garden bed. Regardless of how you choose to incorporate this material, it makes for a welcoming look that adds to the overall curb appeal and design of a home.

Depending on the type of driveway paving being used, a driveway apron can either match as an extension of the same material, or be a completely different material from the rest of the driveway surface. I chose Belgian Block to compliment the crushed natural native stone driveway. The crushed stone makes for an easy transition to the yard, house or garden, and extending the Belgian Block apron gives a much softer look than the previous circa 1996 black asphalt.

Each new block was securely cemented in place with stone dust in between. This process is more natural, softer, and allows for the materials to contract over the winter months, as the temperature varies quite a bit here in Connecticut.

Neighbors came out to comment on my newest project and continuous commitment to Rosebrook Gardens. The best comment was, “Wow, those new blocks rock”! That said, I hope it’s contagious.

As a child we are contently reminded and encourage to take naps, but as we get older those encouragements and allowances disappear, and napping becomes a luxury rather than a routine. So I’m here to say, “Take back the afternoon nap.” Upgrade the nostalgic experience in a hammock. Just mentioning the word “hammock” brings a feeling of relaxation over my body—you, too, I’ll bet.

I told myself, when I was planning my garden over a decade ago, that no matter what my design esthetics would be for my garden I needed a space where I could rest and enjoy the beauty of the gardens. This would come in the way of a hammock, of course that today cleverly hangs between the garden studio and the hemlock tree. Placed perfectly in a shaded area, here I can rest my eyes, glimpsing the beauty of the garden as I dose off to la la land. Birds chirp, fountains splash, all while I am tucked away—and away from all wireless connections.

Combined with the breeze and the gentle sway, it’s like Mother Nature is rocking me in her arms. I always doze off quickly to a relaxing deep, deep sleep. This is heaven to me. When I finally arrive to this oasis state, you can be sure I will be out for an hour or two, unconscious with a “do not disturb” bubble above my head.

So this SumMAR the essential “to do” is getting out, owning your very own hammock, and literally hanging out. It’s a good thing, and allowing yourself to take time and enjoy a good nap will refresh and energize you. Don’t even try to go those larger “two man” hammocks to share the experience with another—unless that other is the 4-legged kind. (As you can see, Violet sure loves to snuggle up with me out here.) It’s quite alright to let this be your experience, and yours alone to saver. This is the one time it’s okay to be a single swinger and proud of it. I know I am.

With the summer in full swing, and with the hazy, hot and humid weather becoming the norm here in Connecticut, I’ve been busy inside my studio writing new articles and creatively working with my website designer(s) to bring all of you dedicated Better readers a new and improved marjennings.com website. If you haven’t checked it out before, it’s an extension of the work you see me do on BetterTV. From the coolest ideas to fun projects, from recipes to yum-yum cocktails, my new website has it all. I hope you feel the new look and feel is fresh, and even easier to navigate—that was the design objective! For example, it’s always been easy to find my latest blog, but now visitors can quickly find the latest article, too, proudly displayed in “Most recent articles.”

I really enjoy learning and passing on what I know, and I hope in the years that follow that I reach more and more people across the USA and around the world. Regardless, it’s always been you Better readers and my fans who have made me so popular, so with your continued support we’ll continue to build my lifestyle brand. And with “Better” on my site the sky’s the limit!

Take a moment and post a comment, post on your social network, get the word out—tell others that Lifestyle Expert Mar Jennings inspires you to learn, have fun and pass it on. Help me help you by spreading the word. Let’s not just make it global, aw heck, you already made it to Mar’s, let’s take it to the universe!

I am proud to invite you to visit the new and improved marjennings.com. or voice your comments below. Tell me what you want help on, what future segments or article to write, and before you know it, I’d love to say “And there you have it” to your ideas, too.

When my fabulous friends Carol and Peter have a summer soiree you can count on me being there in a heartbeat. Last Sunday was no exception as they celebrated the end of a successful all-day garden tour to benefit the national Garden Conservancy Open Days Program. I arrived with my lovely date, Barbara, to this magnificent estate—one that, quite frankly I would love, love, love to live in. Or, as I keep hinting, one day my LV luggage and schnauzer will arrive for a long, long extended life stay. Hmm, it’s funny as I have yet heard Carol or Peter say “yes, please do.”

All kidding aside, this home and property has everything you ever need to never want to leave. Gracious owners, seven fireplaces, plenty of guestrooms, craft room, billiards room, indoor and outdoor swimming pools and breathtaking gardens that surround the property. I learned that I need to keep my swimsuit in my trunk as I could only dunk my feet in the heated outdoor pool.

Carol, an avid gardener herself, also admits to having talented helpers, such as Heather whose eye for detail is surpassed by no one else. And the amazing team from Odd Jobs who can deliver a concept from start to finish with expertise and knowledge. Let’s not forget Mother Nature, as she also has influence on the magical experience that is bestowed on you the moment you arrive at this magnificent estate.

I have experienced many wonderful homes across the country, but this one is on the list of special ones because, like the others in this select group, each time I arrive to this home I experience something even more meaningful than the vision of beauty. A house, whether large or small, can only become a home when the owners embrace the elements of good will, good cheer and good meals. Add good friends and you have it all. No wonder I’m such a happy guest. Any questions as to why I’m ready to move in? For now, I’ll gladly take the summer soirees and eagerly anticipate my next visit. (Fair warning, Carol: my bags are packed!)

Last night I had the pleasure to be part of a special fundraising event for the Norma F. Pfriem Breast Care Center Institute at Bridgeport Hospital–a member of the prestigious National Consortium of Breast Care Centers. Over 150 people attended this magical event, called Romancing Mother Nature. From the start this event was MAR-ed—of course in a good way, as 12 of my signature “casual luxury” projects were prominently scatted throughout the venue as the basis for a fun scavenger hunt.

Truth be told, with the event called Romancing “Mother Nature” how could she be tempted to give us bad weather? The evening was perfect, allowing the event to capture the essence of a spectacular night with the beauty of a clear sky, perfect temperature, and gracious hosts.

Two of my fabulous cocktails recipes from my book, Life On Mar’s, A Four Season Garden, were available to enjoy first hand. And since we were enjoying cocktails, why not take this time to introduce my new Vermont White Vodka MAR-berri drink, served on the rocks with frozen cranberries as ice cubes.

A charming old estate in the historical Greenfield Hill area of Connecticut served as the backdrop, and it easily takes your breath away from the moment you arrive. The number of guests meant that parking close to the house was not possible, so a collection of Land Rover SUVs shuttled attendees directly from their cars to the regal home. Trays of bite size hors d’oeuvres awaited guests, and three bars were situated around the back yard, anchored by an extra large swimming pool that was simply to die for. The pool house alone could be a second home, but served as a casual place to discover new people and get away to freshen up. From there one could easily embrace the views of the grand lawn and perennial gardens and near-by tennis court. Up for a match, anyone? (I always play better after a MARtini!)

Many people came together to make the night happen, from individuals—like our hosts for the evening and the charity directors—to corporate sponsors—specifically for the evening Hudson Valley Bank. On this special night I played an additional role beyond inspiring the décor and being the featured guest: I donated 100% of the proceeds from the sale of my book directly to the charity; I answered gardening questions, stood for photos and said a few words to the group. In all, I was honored and proud that I could be part of such a selfless philanthropic organization that helps so many women.

This is a mission that was easy to embrace and which is now dear to my heart. On a personal note, when I was a young, boyish Mar, my mother was diagnosed with bone cancer, she suffered for years and ultimately lost her leg to the cancer. It changed my life along with her. I remember that the “c-word” was all that was whispered—as though saying the whole word “cancer” was just too dreadful. This one word has struck several family members, those I love and those I admired. This history gives me a strength that feeds my will to acknowledge two things: First, I recognize that I am blessed, and I have a duty to do something good with that gift. And second, that today the “c-word” is spoken loudly, which is allowing a new “c” word to resonate even louder and with a team spirit: Cure! I proudly join that cheerleading team and I’ll even make my own pom-poms—I don’t think anyone will mind if they’re made from hydrangea flowers! Why? Because what matters is rolling up your sleeves and getting involved in any way you can. It doesn’t matter if you have an estate to give a party, a Range Rover to kindly offer rides, or a bank to offer community support—all things that are invaluable—it’s about giving of yourself that matters. When it’s all for a good cause, every contribution counts.

For more information about the Norma F. Pfriem Cancer Institute, click here:
http://www2.bridgeporthospital.com/cancer/default.aspx

This week I interviewed a local farmer for Better TV. Her name: Judy Morris, the owner of Coop D’etat — your go-to “chick with chicks.” Judy also happens to work for Martha Stewart as a special project producer, and she invited me to her farm to experience the world of farm living. But don’t let this farm life fool you, as Judy also happens to be an Emmy award winning producer, too. I can say I held an Emmy today, and one day I hope to have my own.

So how did Judy’s love of farming come about? Seventeen years ago Judy found great inspiration from Martha herself, who introduced her to the world of backyard chickens during a photo shoot. Keeping chickens is a lifestyle that one can only understand once one experiences it for oneself. So I wanted to find out more. Judy told me that converting her old pony barn on her property was the best thing she could do for not only herself but for her family.

I was hooked the moment I arrived and after I held a four-week-old chick in my hand. I mean, who doesn’t think they’re adorable? I learned that as they get older they apparently can even help around the house: not only do they provide us with a high protein food, they are a natural pesticide, tillers of your garden and amazing lawn fertilizers. Chickens offer compost that is nitrogen-rich, so their manure does amazing things to a backyard vegetable garden. And let’s not forget they offer hours of entertainment for the kids and adults.

The domesticated chicken has been laying eggs for thousands of years, and most lay an egg every 25 hours. Egg color and sizes may vary depending upon your chicken selection—and their diet. There are so many varieties of chicken to select from, but regardless which type you choose, owning chickens forces you to appreciate not only the food chain but the role these chickens play. In short, one learns not to take things for granted. Today, Judy shares her passion with Martha, and from time to time they “talk chickens,” sharing their love for these animals that are here to serve.

Not long ago I was lucky enough to have Judy provide me with a dozen fresh eggs, and I found them to be delicious—creamy in texture with a bright orange yolk. I would learn later that the Grade A eggs that I buy at my local market are already about 30 days old by the time they arrive in the stores. What a bonus to have them available in your own yard!

At Judy’s, the combination of the cutest vegetable garden ever, the sheep, the alpacas and the chickens all made me feel as though I was transported to a rural farm, far way, possibly even in another time. At Judy’s, a working farm is sacred and respected, and harvesting and living off the land is a way of life. As a wife, a mother and a part-time producer, Judy Morris opened a window to a world of chickens that surprising enough is attainable to all. I had no idea that tending to chickens could be so easy and fun.

So which do you think felt better in my hand: the adorable baby chick or the Emmy? I have to admit that I was momentarily tempted to want both. Visiting Judy is a casual experience that leaves you pondering “Why don’t I have chickens?” The answer may surprise you—when you walk away you just may find yourself saying “I can!”

This morning I awoke early, and as it was such a glorious day I took a stroll in the yard to take in the fresh, cool air and pay homage to all that is beautiful in the garden. Feeling extremely refreshed and—unlike other mornings when I find myself juggling both a camera and a Starbucks coffee—I was enjoying the “Hands Free” benefit of being able to touch while I walked. This morning was also the end of a successful work week and the debut of the July 4th weekend. I was in good spirits while taking in Rosebrook Gardens’ eye candy.

As I wandered through the side garden my eyes took delight in touching upon every small detail. The water drops from the irrigation system’s early morning watering schedule reflected the soft morning sun; on the hydrangea’s leaves they even captured the reflection of the delicate pink dahlia flowers above. I could hear the birds chirping, the bee’s buzzing and the schnauzer shnuffling over the pebbles under the pergola. The soft morning breeze was especially crisp and clean, and my lungs embraced the cool morning air like fuel for my long day ahead. I was barefoot and in my pajamas, yet my poor attire did not matter to my garden as my dedication to it allows me to wander the property regardless what I may wear. I look like hell, but I’m pardoned.

I took a moment to pause and spiritually connect to my home and life’s entire blessing; this is an honor that I do not hold lightly. That said, I turned to my back garden patio area and looked up towards the trees, their lush, dense leaves casting shade on the teak chaise longue chairs. I continued my way to the armillary outside my kitchen’s seating area window. At that very moment, a large female robin from the adjacent tree flew over and landed on top of it. I said “Well hello,” and rather than flying off, startled, she turned and looked right at me, as if she had something to say. I stood there. “You look so beautiful. What are you doing this morning?” She continued to look at me. “Are you here to tell me something?” She continued to stare. Remarkable, as she was within touching distance, and out in the open. I took a moment to think about how moments like these—connecting to nature in such a pure and spontaneous way—is the greatest gift of all for a gardener such as myself. I was amazed by this bird and needed to enjoy this treat for as long as I could.

Violet came around, wondering who I was talking to, so I picked her up, expecting for sure that the robin would fly away. Nope. I introduce Miss Violet to “Lady Bird Robin”—the name I quickly came up with. She proudly stood taller, acknowledged the introduction, and in a regal, proud way continued to watch us closely. Violet, too, was in awe—or just strategizing how to snatch her next meal? I said “Goodbye! Come again.” After our farewell I placed Violet down on the walkway and turned to continue my morning stroll. As I looked back the robin took flight, as if she, too, needed to report back on this MARvellous encounter. Maybe—just maybe—she, too, was in awe.

Find more great stories about Mar at www.marjennings.com

I oversee my garden like a parent, and just like a proud father I think of each plant as my children—taking time to support them when they’re wet, move them out when they need more room to grow, and cut off a limb when its sick. (Okay, maybe that last one is not really a great parenting strategy, but you get the picture.) Nevertheless I take care of their overall well-being. And proudly, I might add.

Truth be told, I have two basic rules for others when it comes to my flowers:1. Enjoy them for as much as you can.
2. Don’t pick the flowers yourself unless you’re invited.
These simple “green rules” rules were inherited from my grandmother, as she, too, would love to share her garden but forbade anyone to pick her flowers without her personal supervision. Being present made sure that the right tool was used and the flower was the right selection. I remember just thinking about doing this without her was considered to be an act of war. Come mealtime she would lecture you as to why she was in charge when it came to the garden and the flower picking process. That said, the herb garden was always open for business and we were encouraged to pick things at will, such as the fresh mint to add to our lemonade.

Today, I make it a point to never pick my own flowers until after a photo shoot; or, when I do, I make sure to do it strategically so that the casual observer can’t tell from where. Stacy Bass, a renowned photographer who—lucky for me—resides here in Westport, CT, recently shot the garden, capturing some of the most vibrant colors and textures. Stacy is known for her eye for detail and being able to zoom-in getting every last detail. She is so talented and gifted and I have the photos to prove it.

Then, a few days ago the talented multimedia expert Tom Lialios, of Norwalk, CT, was called upon to create some new press photos. Of course I wanted to use my wonderful, over-the-top Annabelle hydrangea flowers as the backdrop. So we had to plan and waited until they were just perfect. For weeks we patiently watched their growth (and the weather forecast) for the exact right moment before we confirmed the date and time of the photo shoot. All went perfectly this week, as you can see by the amazing photo leading this blog. Tom, who also supported me with the production of The Mar Jennings Home & Garden Show® always captures the essence of Rosebrook Gardens in a way that tells my story and shows my passion. Whether it be in print or on film, Tom is always the man!

A lot like my grandmother, I, too love to share my garden to all who come to visit Rosebrook Gardens. Whether its through my website, on a TV segment, during a garden tour, or for a press article, it’s my gift to you. Cultivating the land and sharing the fruits or my labor with others has always been the most rewarding part of being a public figure.

I like to think I’m the first person to willingly forage in my garden to get a bloom—the garden is not a museum—but earlier this week while I was in production a complete stranger walked onto my property with clippers in hand and snipped away some of my oversized hydrangea flowers. (I’m fortunate the neighbors enjoy looking at my garden, too—they’re the built-in security cameras.) Apparently the person scampered away, too, which implied that they knew they were in the wrong. I wonder… Who?

So if someone must come and pick my flowers I guess I delight in knowing that they were perfect to enjoy. I don’t support this un-invited act, but I do know that flowers will grow back. After all toMARrow is another day. But if they come back they better watch out—Violet will be on guard.

READ MORE ABOUT MAR’S AMAZING HYDRANGEAS AT: www.marjennings.com/view.cfm/section/InTheGarden/page/360degreesofhydrangeas/