Don't let the scorching weather stop you from enjoying quality patio time. Here is the trick: Wait until dark, and then turn on the misters. It's quite pleasant, especially if you create a happy setting to chill and relax in.

A whimsical set of patio lights to add ambience will help.

Visit any home-decor store to find the perfect set and then embellish the heck out of each patio light. I love the basic paper lanterns because you can decoupage, paint or glue decorations on them.

I went with ribbon that I use on the scrapbooks. You can always find packages on clearance, and a little bit goes a long way. To see a wide scope of patio lights (Flip-flops! Spider-Man heads! Dice!), check out one of my favorite Web sites, www.offthedeepend .com.

Supplies:

String of lantern lights
Assorted ribbons and trims

Directions: Use hot glue to affix the trims around each lantern. you can make them all the same, or use contrasting styles like I did.
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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: lights