There are a few more lazy weeks left in the summer holiday. Here in Bluffton we are nipping along with various fun things on our agenda. I have several things for you to try if you have company coming or want a fun family event to share before school starts.

First, consider making your backyard into a certified wildlife habitat. The National Wildlife federation can help make your garden into an inviting haven for all sorts of animals. Obviously, I don't mean lions, tigers and giant critters.

You just have to provide a few elements that animals need and look for when they make their home: food; feeders of any kind to help supplement food they find naturally; water, we all need this; cover, a place that provides shelter from harm and weather; and a place to raise their babies. You will receive a certificate from the National Wildlife Federation for your habitat and will be able to put up a sign telling your friends what you have done. You can even do this on the Internet. Go to www.nwf.org/habitatapplication and before you know it you will have lots of wildlife lounging in your backyard.

I know you are thinking this sounds like a lot of trouble but just try to do at least one or two things in your yard. There is so much enjoyment in finding out that some of your new best friends may be animals.

Another fun thing to do: The Coastal Discovery Museum on Hilton Head Island has turtle walks on the beach in the evenings. You will get to stroll the beach and see where turtles have made their nests. You can even keep track of a nest and, who knows, you might even see a nest hatching. Since the turtle walks are in the evening you could take a picnic or make plans to have a cocktail beforehand.

This is a great adventure for everyone but little children. Details: 843-689-6767

Would you like to learn more about being environmentally aware in your garden or yard? You can now take the South Carolina Master Gardener Course online. You will learn all that you need to know and more about how to manage your home landscape. The course will be taught by Clemson Extention horticulture experts. You will be taught the same material as you would be if you were taking the course in person. There is no exam (yippee!) or volunteer service required unless, of course, you wish to earn a Master Gardener certification.

So gather round the computer and learn how to become a modern-day Johnny Appleseed in your very own backyard. The course begins Aug. 17. Details: www.clemson.edu/extension/mg

I recently found something you should keep on hand for a tasty treat with drinks or to take along on a picnic: Mezzetta Napa Valley Bistro "Olive Medley." These are marinated olives that can be found in the pickle section at Publix. They come in several different varieties and are really delicious. Useful too in lots of recipes. Of course you'll want to remove the pits first! Details: www.mezzetta.com

Babbie Guscio is the social columnist for The Bluffton Packet. She can be reached at The Store on Calhoun Street.