Author: Trey Collier

About Trey Collier

Avid Do-It-Yourself-er. Love's being outdoors. Helped push the shade sail market into one of the fastest growing outdoor shade structures product in North America.

Which One Do You Think Makes The Best Holiday Gift?

Wildlife Motif Fire Pit

Trying to find the perfect holiday gift for my favorite uncle???? He is an avid outdoor sportsman yet he also loves to entertain guests in his backyard even on the coldest winter weekends! My choices are between a Big Sky Wildlife Fire Pit or an Aspen Outdoor Fireplace.   Check these out and let me know what your vote is!

Shopping for the Holidays is Easy

With so much to choose from, how do you even decide what to get your kids, friends or family members for Christmas?  That in itself creates enough chaos to last the whole year.

I suggest shopping on-line to begin with.  Many people have become professional on-line shoppers already.  But a way to capture some unique gifting is to purchase “fun” pool supplies that normally wouldn’t show up until the warmer months and have them shipped right to your door.

A pool slide is the perfect gift to put under the tree so to speak.  Well, you may have to set it up by the pool but you can dress it up with a huge red bow!

If that sounds too big to deal with then go for a smaller pool gift like the Remote Control Water Soaker.

The Remote Control Water Soaker lets you sneak up and soak unwary poolside travelers from the other end of the pool. The full-function, battery operated radio controller controls movement around the pool , elevates the nozzle, and controls the soaking stream. The Remote Control Water soaker features a nozzle that will shoot a stream of water up to 20 Feet!

The water resistant remote control can be used in or out of the water so hide around the corner and secretly soak your unsuspecting friends. The remote has two channels for interference free fun.

With tons of options for easy “click shopping”, there really is no reason for people to get so stressed out about traffic and lines.

What tips do you have for making holiday shopping easier?

Mistletoe or Not?

mistletoe1

Have you ever wondered why kissing and mistletoe go hand in hand.  Why is mistletoe forgotten the rest of the year and how did it ever become the symbol for kissing?  Well, in order to understand its origin, you have to go back to ancient Scandinavia — to custom and the Norse myths: “It was also the plant of peace in Scandinavian antiquity. If enemies met by chance beneath it in a forest, they laid down their arms and maintained a truce until the next day.” This ancient Scandinavian custom led to the tradition of kissing under the mistletoe. But this tradition went hand-in-hand with one of the Norse myths, namely, the myth of Baldur. Baldur’s death and resurrection is one of the most fascinating Norse myths and stands at the beginning of the history of mistletoe as a “kissing” plant.

I wonder if it would do everyone some good if we kept it up for more than a season in our homes?  Do you think this small gesture could make the world a better place?  Would families pay attention to it?

Now, for a crazier thought.  What if it was hung in stores and office buildings and areas where hope is a foreign concept?  And as people pass under it, they could possibly be the next winner of some prize that would make kissing strangers a big enough risk to take?

I am probably a hopeless optimist that believes the human race has goodness just waiting to shine thru.  I by no means am saying there are not kind, compassionate people in this world.  I am speaking more in generalities.

So, I ask again, mistletoe or not?

Is YOUR Outdoor Storage Helping or Hurting?

Rancher Storage

Rancher Storage

Imagine the possibilities that an Outdoor Storage Shed or Garden Shed Kit can provide… easy access to your gardening and yard gear; a fun and creative play shelter where kids can engage their imaginations; a relaxing outdoor retreat to enjoy after a hard day at work; a protective shelter for your supply of winter firewood. The possibilities are truly endless.

In addition, storing tools, toys, and outdoor furniture in an Outdoor Storage Shed or Garden Shed can help you de-clutter your garage making it easier to park your car, truck, or other vehicles. Or, you may wish to re-organize your garage or existing storage shed with the unique StorageTrak wall-mounted storage system. This storage solution allows you to take advantage of precious wall space that often goes unused in garages and garden sheds.

Outdoor Storage Sheds and Garden Shed Kits are usually easy  to assemble and provide an attractive solution to all your organization and outdoor garden storage shed needs.

Are You Using YOUR Backyard?

Outdoor Firepit

Why retreat to the warmth of the indoors once the weather turns chilly when you can warm up on your deck or patio with one of our many styles of beautiful and affordable Outdoor Fireplaces Stay cozy in the crispness of autumn and winter, and enjoy outdoor meals all year round — Outdoor Fireplaces help extend the time you can use your patio, deck, or backyard.

You may also consider bringing distinction to your patio, deck, or backyard with a unique Chimineas. The chiminea was originally designed and constructed by Mexican artisans to be used as a bread oven, but its charm and beauty have enchanted people for centuries. Today, the chiminea is still a favorite choice for providing warmth during cooler weather.

Alternatively, Outdoor Fireplaces and Fire Pits are a decorative way to get the feel and warmth of a real wood fire crackling in your own backyard. Many outdoor fireplaces even come equipped with wheels for easy portability, so you can quickly move your fireplace from deck to patio to pool side. You may even wish to take your outdoor fireplace with you on your next vacation!

Going camping? Roast marshmallows and hot dogs during your next camping trip when you bring along one of our sturdy, easy to assemble Fire Rings A fire ring is a safe way to contain a camp fire and can be used year-round.

Attractive and simple to clean,  many outdoor fireplaces create a slow burn for a warmer, longer lasting heat without sparking embers. An outdoor fireplace or fire pit burns wood, charcoal, or pressed wood logs.