The end of summer is just around the corner, signaling the end of the hot weather we've experience this year. We've actually already gotten a bit of a reprieve.  We’re looking forward to a new season—of cooler autumn days, of football Sundays, of myriad back-to-school activities—we also look forward to closing the beloved dog days of summer with a bang! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aip619LJMDo Backyard barbecues can’t be beat! They abound with the smell of charcoal and sizzling meats wafting through the warm summer air. Ahh... So now the question is, “Picnic-style or something more elegant?” Will it be “help-yourself” or “please let us serve you”?

We love parties, the planning, the cooking, the serving. What are some of your favorite ways to celebrate?