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Bringing The Indoors Out

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The warmth of summer will soon be replaced by the crisp, brisk feeling of fall. The approaching changing of the seasons does not mean your outdoor fun needs to end. In fact it might be just the time to consider bringing the indoors out. In essence by creating a useable space outside for cooking and gathering you may add that much more room to your property. This could be a good selling point for when you sell your property in the future! Creating the perfect outdoor space will take planning to include how to protect your equipment. One item that will be an essential piece of the protection plan is grill covers.

Benefits of Adding an Outdoor Kitchen

Prior to designing your new space, you or your family maybe wondering well how are we going to benefit from it? In addition to giving you more useable space, being outdoors does wonders for your health.  Being in the fresh air may even entice you to start a pickup game that may not otherwise have crossed your mind, adding physical movement to the list of benefits.

Another benefit to consider is the possibility of increasing your property value for the future.

Design

While the benefits listed above may sound appealing to you and your family, you still need to design and build your new space first. When designing an outdoor kitchen it is important to keep a budget in mind as there are a lot of enticing products on the market. Remember you want to enjoy your new space, not regret it!

Prior to drawing up your plans make sure you measure the area where the new kitchen will go. This will help you determine exactly how much space you will have for equipment as well as a work area if you are going to be doing prep work outside.

When working on the plans for equipment and workspace, determine if there are projects you can do yourself. Taking a DIY approach will save you money as you will not have to pay labor costs. However, there are some projects that should be left to the professionals. For instance, if you are going to be running water or gas lines to the new space contact the proper professionals to ensure the job is done safely.

The elements included in the design will vary depending upon the individual vision for the space. There are some basics though that you are likely going to want to include. They include the centerpiece grill as well as small sink and refrigerator.

Protection

Once you have created the space of your dreams, you are going to want to protect it. Mother Nature is a fickle creature so it is wise to build in protective elements into your budget. One of which are grill covers for the main attraction. You may also want to consider other types of protective devices depending on design and your local weather.

Creating the perfect outdoor kitchen will take time. Just like projects indoors, you may need to purchase pieces at a time depending upon budget. In the end though all the work and purchasing will be worth it as you enjoy a perfect meal outside.

Davide Bloomer is a freelance writer who loves the outdoors





Making Sure Your Garden Is Safe This Summer

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To most people the Garden is a safe place both for themselves their pets and their children, but this may not always be the case so we have put together some information to help make sure your garden is safe over the summer months.

Pets

While each pet can have a different reaction to certain plants we have researched and compiled a list below of some of the plants and trees which are potential poisonous or may give your cat, dog or other animal an upset stomach.

  • Aloe
  • Apple
  • Apricot
  • Avocado
  • BlackJack Pine
  • Butercup
  • Chamomile
  • Cherry
  • Daffodil

You can find out full indepth detail and more information about which plants you should avoid by going to the following website http://www.aspca.org/Pet-care/poison-control/Plants

Garden Flooring (Childrens Play Mats)

When it comes to children in the garden it is often the case that home owners look for some form of safety flooring or play mats to help young ones stay safe. This is especially used when it come play areas such as swings, climbing frames or other equipment.

From my own personal experience or the research I have carried out I would strongly recommend one of the following surfaces:

  • Soft sponge tar
  • Sponge Play Mats
  • Bark or soft wood chippings
  • Recycled Rubber

BBQ’s and Fire Safety:

When it comes to cooking or heating in the garden you need to make sure that you cover a few bases. Firstly makes sure you think about wind direction, not just for the smoke but if it’s a very windy day then make sure you are cooking away from everyone and that your equipment can not be blown over.

If you are using a gas bbq or heater then once its been used disconect the gas supply and make sure the gas bottle is stored away from any further heat.

Keep children far away from the cooking and make sure the fire is never left unattended and before you even start the fire make sure that your BBQ is stable. A lot of accidents happen simply because the barbeque falls over, so above all make sure it cannot fall or be knocked down.

Water

You may not be able to afford a swimming pool (If you can then have a read of this article about pool safety http://www.homeandgardendiva.com/home-and-family/keeping-your-pool-area-safe-comfortable-and-fun-for-all-the-family/) but water in the garden can come in a number of forms whether it’s a fountain a pond, water founatin or similar.

If you have a pond then i would advise to think about using a Pond Guard or Safety grid cover, this will prevent any small children from falling in and also protects fish from any predators (mainly cats).

Our Final Tips

The final tips are about tools; make sure that you keep your spades, forks or sheers in a safe place, they can be an accident haven whether they are sharpe or blunt. So making sure they are locked away in a shed or garage will ensure you garden is safe for you, your pets and your children.

Attached Images:
  •  License: MBG Stock Image by Smart Photo Stock
  •  License: MBG Stock Image credit Cheap photos
  •  License: MBG Stock Photo provided by: Guest blogging community

Andrew Taylor is an avid garden enthusiast who works for Alfresia Cushions for garden furniture. He writes for a number of blogs and other gardening publications.

Top Tips On How To Create A Stylish Outdoor Living Area For The Long Summer Evenings

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Top tips on how to create a stylish outdoor living area for the long summer evenings

It seems like every time little bit of sunshine graces us with its presence, everyone goes crazy getting ready for summer! We love preparing ourselves, and our home, for the sunny days and long summer evenings – sunbathing in the early morning, late cocktail evenings with our friends and the unforgettable BBQ parties. When inviting our friends over, admit it, we are all secretly seeking admiring comments on our good-looking exterior design.

You don’t need a great, big swimming pool or a garden twice the size of your living room to enjoy the warm evenings. Whether it is a roof terrace, a deck or a conservatory, make sure you’re ready for this exciting time of the year (and for the chilly evenings, too!)

Options are endless, but these tips will hopefully spark some ideas for you to create whatever design fits your style.

The location of its foundation

If your house didn’t come with a terrace, you might want to build a patio yourself. Bearing in mind that sunbathing takes less surface space than inviting the whole family over, you’ll first need to decide on the patio size. Then it only takes a handful of materials and patience.

Are you lucky enough to have a beautiful, big tree in your backyard? You might want to try constructing a patio next to its trunk so you can enjoy the shade while drinking a cocktail. If there’s nothing to hide behind, and your translucent skin – white from our long winter – is getting scorched by the sun, why not cover the patio or sitting area with a gazebo?

Once you have decided on the concept, it’s time to see it to fruition. To make sure you are well prepared and don’t miss out on anything important, why not do a quick Google search on ‘Build Own Patio’? With millions of results and easy step-by-step videos you’ll guarantee your patio will last for longer than just the summer of 2013!

Keeping warm on chilly evenings

We all know how summer evenings can last till late, and at some point, you loose track of time. But temperatures will drop. A fire place on the deck definitely stimulate the summer-feel and will keep you warm for sure.

If your deck doesn’t allow for a fire place, why not design a conservatory or garden room? With large windows and the doors open, it will feel like you’re sitting outside while giving you the comfort of an indoor room. Accessorise with a wooden radiator, keeping the ‘outdoor oasis’ look consistent and ensuring you stay warm even on chilly evenings and rainy days.

The tables and chairs

Once the summer-sitting-area is agreed upon and built, the fun part begins: choosing the furniture and designing the layout.

Continuing the BBQ excitement – a large dining table accompanied by stylish chairs is what you need. Plus, if you want to enjoy the sunshine while reading your favourite novel, I highly recommend comfortable loungers and a small coffee (or wine!) table in the middle.

As it is for seasonal use only, completely new outdoor furniture sets might be a bit beyond your budget, and deciding to take out the standard plastic chairs from the garage and covering the dirty table with a flowered cloth can be a little less than inspiring. So why not have a look around in second-hand shops? These often have great vintage-look to offer – saving on your budget while hitting a 2013 design trend at the same time.

A Finishing Touch

Having decided on the outdoor area – or inside, garden room alternative – and its accompanying furniture, it’s time to accessorise and colour up! If there isn’t much greenery around, use big plants to accessorise. Fitting them into tiled pots with vivd colours will give your sitting area a bit more personality.

If you opt for multiple colours of flowers and pots, additional colours and patterns can become quite overwhelming. Try to keep your furniture cushions and covers single or neutral coloured, instead of using extra dots and stripes! The result will be an effective contrast between your patterned garden design and a calm patio to relax on after a long day of work.

Add some outdoor lighting as a finishing touch and enjoy evening meals out there too.

The great outdoors

Designing an outdoor space is similar to how we decorate our interior – we build and design according to our preferences and style. Utilise whatever space you have and really make it your own ‘great outdoors’ escape.

Now, time to organise your first outdoor party of the year!

Laura writes for Jaga decorative radiators. When not blogging, she can often be found trying to find time to enjoy her outdoor living space.

Tips For Decorating Your Garden

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Garden Group ~ Tucson Botanic GardenFor most of us, our gardens are an extension of our living spaces. It’s a place to entertain guests, children and pets. Or it can be a sanctuary and place of relaxation. And with a little effort, your garden can be a little piece of heaven. Here are five tips to decorating your garden and having your own space to escape from life’s daily stress.

Choose appropriate outdoor furniture

When purchasing outdoor furniture, consider the purpose of your garden. Will you use it to entertain guests? Will it be a playground for your children? Or, will it be your own quiet retreat place? Also, consider the amount of space you have and take accurate measurements. Lastly, try to match your outdoor living furniture with your indoor design. Your outdoor furniture and décor must be able to withstand the weather, be that wind and rain. Therefore, it is important that your furniture is made of sturdy, weather resistant material.

Take lighting to the next level

Many landscapes can become romantic at night with the right lighting. By placing electric lights in trees and pathways, you can set the ambiance for your patio or garden. Consider hanging gracious outdoor lanterns from the trees. This will make for a dreamy atmosphere. You can also use streetlight-style lamps to punctuate patios and pathways. Try to pick fixtures that coordinate with the lights placed on the house’s exterior walls.

Showcase plant collections

Your garden should be the center of attention in your backyard. Display your favorite specimens in pots and pedestals. For greater exposure, place these objects at eye level. Embrace unusual displays and place plants in vintage pots or a painted chest of drawers. If you just plant flowers in beds they will disappear in the background. This is where you can get creative. Take advantage of antique shops and yard sales for the perfect outdoor décor.

Add a splash of color

Lighten up your backyard with color accent pieces such as bright colored ceramic pots and chairs. Try filling bright colored pots with plants that can draw the eye from a distance. You can also paint patio chairs in bright colors and arrange them around a neutral tabletop. Wall art is also a great way to liven up your backyard. You can even add color to your outdoor décor by covering a fence with suspended flowerpots. Create even more impact by using the same color throughout your yard.

Give life to your garden

Objects that a visitor can actually see and touch, like birdbaths and statues. For example, statues are an easy way to make your garden unique and fun. Accent your yard with frolicking animals and garden benches. Decorating your garden will make your backyard more inviting and encourage your guests to stay longer.

Accentuate with flowers

What could be more inviting than a flower-filled garden? Plant a mixture of roses, verbena and foxgloves to create a charming atmosphere. Or you could plant a bed of flowering perennials. Use climbing roses on a fence or arbor for a dramatic focal point. When it comes to planting beautiful flowers, the options are endless.

Attached Images:

Ann Michaels is a freelance writer with a green thumb. Every spring, Ann prepares her garden for the New Year. She recently purchased great products like dog statues from Saint Francis Garden for her budding garden.

Are Bugs Creating A Nuisance At Your Home? Have A Look At Acquisitive Solutions

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It’s not just the dirt that affects our space but lot of other pesky things like weeds, bugs and rodents also kills the serenity of the home. Pests have been part of the human process since the start of the human history. They are varied animals and plants that obstruct the human process. Some of the pests may bug while you walk along the streets while others may just stay hidden in your living space, creating a nuisance at your home. A lot of chemicals have been designed to fight with these pests but few are effective and those that are very effective do not fit in well in everybody’s pocket. In fact it is seen that half of the times, these pest control chemicals do not even work properly and are least effective after a certain time gap. Apart from the issue of effectiveness, some of the pest control solutions are made using hazardous chemicals and these chemicals are not only dangerous to the humans especially the young children at home, but are also a threat to the environment. Look at some of the simple acquisitive solutions that can help you get rid of the pests.

Cucumbers are not just for glowing skin

Cucumbers are considered the best for eliminating dark circles, curing puffiness, and yes not to forget, putting the slices of it in the salad.  However there is another side to this “good for skin” element. These are considered as one of the best natural ant repellents. Just like the picky toddlers, even ants dislike cucumbers and do everything possible so as to avoid interaction with it. So if you see the little buggers sliding down your window panes, just place a few cucumbers alongside the edges and the ants will push their steps back.

Fly away the flea

One of the best ways to keep the fleas off your pet is to use ground rosemary leaves. These leaves once sprinkled over the beds or even on the pets can help keep off the fleas. With this little steps avoid the nuisance that the fleas create.

Mash potatoes and kill unwanted buggers 

Mash potatoes taste good but are they tastier even for the unwanted pests? Well, if you place a bowl of desiccated mashed potato flakes and some water, all the tiny critters that come near it and try to eat will experience an unexpected shock. When the water comes in contact with the potato flakes, they puff up like sponges and eventually bloat out, killing the little buggers.

Protect your garden with vinegar

Vinegar is a favourite of gardeners and lawn lovers as it helps kill the unwanted pests like weed. Weed are of different forms but vinegar identifies all as one and equally effective on each of them. So, next time you go to any grocery store, buy a solution that has the highest concentration of vinegar in it.

Keep away the snail and snugs

Snails and slugs are beer lovers and get attracted to this intoxicating drink the fastest. So, all that you are required to do to keep them away and keep your garden safe from them is to pour about one inch of beer into some empty can. Attracted by the smell, these unwanted creepy crawlies try to carve their way to the beer and as soon as they reach out to it, they tumble in it and drown. After this only that you need to do is clear the mess.

Chase Cullen is the author of this informative post. He is an excellent writer, a loving husband and a caring father who enjoys blogging in his spare time. He just got a bed bug heat remediation treatmentdone in his house and is satisfied with its end result.

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