I’ve always thought of summer as a magical time with week-ends spent outdoors as much as possible, whether working in my garden, taking long walks in the mornings or reading  out by the pool. Basically a time to set the refresh button.

I have to admit that the start of this summer hasn’t been the laid back, carefree time that I’ve come to expect. Granted, this past winter was a cold-hearted bitch – so glad that’s come and gone – but I’ve had a lot on my plate since even before Memorial Day week-end and I haven’t  exactly been a happy camper. Overdue home improvement projects that took way longer and cost  more than projected have taken the wind out of my sails. The good news is I’m close to the end of my to-do list and will be heading out to California in a couple of weeks.  Beach here I come? Buh-bye home improvement headaches ? 

Here are a few fragrant finds that I’ve been depending on to boost my morale during these less than happy-go-lucky past six weeks:

Diptyque Orange Blossom Flower Hourglass Diffuser

I purchased this fabulous Diptyque diffuser while at a perfume event in NYC last year. I am not exaggerating even a tiny bit when I say it has been a godsend to my mental health. Not only is it beautiful to look at but it emits an amazingly subtle floral and fresh fragrance which captures the uplifting brilliance of orange blossom flowers. It is the first diffuser that I’ve truly fallen in love with since most have the problematic sticks to deal with and this one you just flip over after about an hour when it’s done. Not cheap at $175 but it’s lasted over a year and I still haven’t needed to order a refill of the juice. It’s seriously addictive. 

Jane Iredale Smell The Roses Hydration Spray

I’ve been a fan of the Jane Iredale brand ever since I fell in love with their Pink Candy lip gloss, despite the cheesy name. Smell The Roses is really just a faintly scented water-based spray which vanishes before you can say boo but is so refreshing and has an incredibly realistic rose scent. I’ve been rationing my spritzes since this is a limited edition and is no longer available on the Jane Iredale website or on Amazon. Jane Iredale currently carries a ylang-ylang hydration spray which I may be giving a try if I can’t make my bottle last through the summer.

Malin + Goetz Eucalyptus Deodorant

Haha I know it sounds bizarre to be raving about a deodorant but trust me on this. Let’s face it, during the summer we all tend to sweat more. I have been a loyal Donna Karan Cashmere Mist deodorant person for some time but it gets a little heavy on me during the summer. Not to mention it leaves a white mark on my shirts which isn’t a good thing unless you’re wearing white.  This one is totally clear with no residual traces to be found. If you’re familiar with the Malin + Goetz brand you already know that their products are top-notch and very earth friendly.

The Seaweed Bath Co. Lavender Shampoo and Conditioner

I also am seriously loving The Seaweed Bath Co. Argan Shampoo and Conditioner that I discovered at Whole Foods a few weeks ago. The hydrating benefits of seaweed, combined with the relaxing and soothing scent of lavender have made this my new favorite hair combo. Available at Whole Foods or on Amazon by clicking here.

LAFCO Dutchess Peony Powder Room Home Fragrance

Last but certainly not least is my lovely LAFCO Dutchess peony home scent. It’s perfect for the powder room or really any room in the house except the kitchen. One spritz lifts my spirits immediately. Peonies symbolize happiness and I’ve always loved their soft, fluffy petals and enchanting fragrance. You can buy on Amazon by clicking here.

Have you been having a fun and relaxing summer so far? If not, what helps you to cheer up and unwind? Do tell!

Until the next time,