Summer of 2022 has just finished and what a glorious season it was, blessedly free from the strictures of Covid. With the most-delicious weather I can remember in years – coolish, with soft breezes, little rain, and wonderful cloud formations complementing the sense of frivolity that we were all embracing.

In this post I want to reflect back upon, and share a sampling of, the many “hallelujah” moments of summer ’22, June through August. Quick takes, that let you live in the moment with me.

JUNE’s spotlight is always on flowers, and this year included a first ever – a video tour of Parterre’s roses for my dear friends at The Glam Pad.

With, of course, the Newport Flower Show weekend at Rosecliff (with the signature mimes stealing the show).

And a jewelry show with one of my favorite design groups, “Of Rare Origin” (famous for their bird cage creations) styled with flowers, no less.

JULY started with much excitement and two firsts…an invitation to film a thirty-minute tour of the interiors of Parterre (a never-before event) for Homeworthy on YouTube. Viewers to date so far? 447,000!

And a long-anticipated window on Newport, by my fab photographer friend, Nick Mele, debuted July 8th… A Newport Summer.

Presenting a great capture of just what goes on here in the summer (perhaps an inspiration for this “memories” post?,) recording parties galore…as under the trees at the Elms.

And, another cameo appearance – the Parterre Bench in Veranda‘s big summer issue.

Thinking of trees, which are such an important feature of Newport landscapes – another private arboretum has entered the firmament of Newport’s many estates noted for their collection of specimen trees – this one created for the most part over just a few years…

with its own bocce court.

Lest I not forget… the pleasure of driving by Marble House each day, with its bountiful hydrangea display.

Come AUGUST, Parterre hosted cocktails for the Fellows of the Garden Conservancy and the gardens were at their summer best (love that the ‘Eden’ climbing roses are finally tracing their way around the windows and niches of the Orangerie).

The magnificent spectacle that is a “Weekend of Coaching” returned to Newport mid-August with much jubilation after a 4-5 year hiatus. “Downton Abbey” couldn’t have topped this!

And, a formal tea was enjoyed overlooking one of the most elegant pool settings in Newport.

What a finish to the month… “A Soiree with Music” at the private Swanhurst theater.

Hope your summer was equally memorable….