The summer should be all about living leisurely, right? Well, for a laid-back season it sure seems to have raced by. Suddenly the month of August is coming to an end and I’m thinking about Labor Day party plans. I’m hosting a cook-out that is already getting pretty involved and want to make sure I’m spending more time with my company than I am with the party set-up and clean-up.

If you’re in the same boat, make easy recipes, quick drinks and have plenty of paper plates, disposable cups and plastic cutlery (try Diamond Renew Dinnerware made from recycled plastic and sturdier than that cheapy stuff) on hand. Friends can enjoy meals and cocktails that are a breeze to make and trash their empty plates when through. That's a lot less time in the kitchen for us.

If we plan ahead, we'll have the fun, relaxing holiday weekend we deserve.

Rachel