othing takes me back to childhood like summer. The tongue-tingling tartness of fresh-picked berries, the soothing scratch of the warm Oregon sand dunes beneath my feet and long, lazy days looking out at the cornfields with their tassled tops swaying in the breeze. Summer seems endless – that's part of its charm. For me, it's always started on the Fourth of July. Our family would get together for a big picnic, then watch spellbound, as fireworks lit up the night sky. My birthday is July 3rd, so as a child, I always thought the fireworks were for me. And they are – they're for everyone who celebrates all things American! This Semi-Homemade issue is a tribute to super summers. Discover this year's 10 Best Secrets of Cool Summer Style, then see summer's juiciest secret in our Bountiful Berries section: Raspberry Jam, Shortcut Sorbet, and Berry Sinful Skin. Pick up a whole basketful of wonderful ways to enjoy berries with a patriotic patisserie of Red, White and Blueberry Desserts. If you're a beachcomber at heart, Beach Chic will pack your home with seaside style and Chime In will teach you how to make shell wind chimes, patio pots, fabulous finials and more. Summer is all about relaxing with family and friends, so gather the clan – Glorious Gatherings is your guide to entertaining and parties, from Memorial Day all the way through to Labor Day. Happy birthday to us all!