Is there anything more wonderful in a home than a screened porch? You can be outside without fighting off bugs. Breezes blow and birds are chirping, all while you sip some iced tea or lemonade. Take a moment to enjoy today’s collection of pretty porches. Photo by MPR Architecture Porches can provide a lot…
I debated about sharing this post on my blog since it talks about an uncomfortable topic – the end of life and choosing your final resting place. After giving it some thought, I decided my recent experience on the topic might be helpful to others. If you’re like me, you don’t like to think about…
When September rolls around I know that this could be the last month of fully enjoying my koi pond. The fish continue to be active, the waterlilies are still in bloom, and plants around the pond are fully grown (and looking a little messy if I’m being honest). Days by the pond are always moments…
Today I’m excited to share an affordable outdoor kitchen idea by DeGoey Designs that also happens to be quite pretty. I’m definitely filing this space away for next year’s outdoor plans. We just added a new paver patio area and I think a smaller version of this kitchen would work perfectly in that space. (This…
It’s June and what means cozy to me this month is enjoying an outdoor summer evening. Finally the nights are warm enough to be outside well past sunset. And when you’re out past dark, you need a bit of lighting in the garden. Here are some great ideas for illuminating your nights. (This post contains…
Who can resist a garden swing on a gorgeous summer day? I know I can’t. Swinging under a big shady tree is a great way to cool off, and I’ll bet you’ve got the perfect spot in your yard to enjoy this simple pleasure. Here’s a few outdoor swing ideas that are perfect for adults…
Three years ago we had our garden pond installed in the backyard. After adding it, the plan was to incorporate a deck, a new privacy fence, a gravel patio for a dining area, and another patio just outside the back door. We’ve managed to get all those ideas implemented over the years except for the…
Is there any piece of outdoor furniture that says “summer” more than quintessential Adirondack chairs? Seeing one reminds me of lazy days on the beach, or laid back evenings gathered around a toasty fire. I instantly think “vacation” when I see a photo of one. Hopefully these examples will do the same for you. (This…
Hello friends! Are you ready for some pretty amazing inspiration today? There seems to be a never-ending supply of great ideas on the internet, whether you’re looking to spruce up your home, add new plants to your garden, whip up a new recipe, or dream of a new place to travel. Speaking of travel, hubby…
Now is the time to start thinking about your open-air living areas and how to spruce them up for summer living. Today I’m featuring a variety of outdoor deck ideas to get your creative juices flowing. If you plan now, you’ll be able to fully enjoy your outdoor living spaces when warm weather fully kicks…
Maybe you don’t have a fence so you’re wondering why you need a garden gate. You can still use a gate to define an entry into a garden area, or even to the entry of your home. Fence or no fence, garden gates add charm and interest to outdoor spaces. Above, a hedgerow creates a…
We’re havin’ a heat wave here in the Chicago area. Our temps went from hovering around zero degrees to a balmy 40 degrees almost overnight! In honor of our weather improvement, I’m featuring a backyard patio lounge by DeGoey Designs that’s perfect for entertaining a small group or just hanging out with your significant other….
Today is a special day because I’m sharing Shaquille O’Neill’s pond and waterfall which is beyond amazing! Also exciting is the fact that the company I work for is the pond builder who installed Shaq’s gorgeous water feature at his Georgia home. (All photos are courtesy of Aquascape, Inc.) Greg Wittstock, my boss and…
Some of my extroverted friends and family members are starting to go a little stir crazy with shelter-in-place orders. They want to take their kids to the park, but the parks are closed. Luckily the weather is warming up and outdoor dining seems like a good solution if you’re suffering from cabin fever. (This post…
I’m on a fire theme this week! Thursday I featured some cool fire pits and today I’m sharing nine gorgeous outdoor fireplace ideas! There’s a reason for my recent attraction to outdoor fire. I’m not a fan of winter but I have an idea that might help me warm up to it a bit. Photo…
This past Saturday my hubby and I attended an outdoor party at his boss’ house and the backyard had two different fire elements which made the evening super cozy. So now of course I’m on the hunt for fire pit landscaping ideas for my own yard. Here’s a few you’re sure to enjoy! Photo by…
