A flurry of activity erupted inside and outside the house as we quickly prepared to entertain friends for the evening. A sumptuous variety of tapas, cold drinks, summer tunes and the yard lined with lantern lights were on the 'to do' list. Within an hour, the night air was balmy with fire light illuminating the lush flora bordering the patio; a canopy of stars marching across the sky. The stage was set, friends were arriving and we were ready to slow down and enjoy the evening.
It is wondrous how a small touch of ambient light can change the tone and atmosphere of an event. As diminutive flames flicker and dance in the gentle breeze, they glow with a soft light that encourages quiet, relaxed, easy flowing conversation. Whether it is a single candle nestled on a table between friends or a patio surrounded by torches and lanterns; small bursts of mellow light are soothing and tranquilizing.
Take a look around your home and outdoor living spaces. Is there a place that draws people for relaxation that might be enhanced by a flickering flame? Need an idea or two on how to proceed?
"The fire is the main comfort of the camp,
whether in summer or winter,
and is about as ample at one season as at another.
It is as well for cheerfulness as for warmth and dryness."
~Henry David Thoreau
