Beach Accessories

Beach Chairs of All Kinds

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Beach Canopy Chair

Are you and your family going to the beach this summer? If you are like me, you have already spent endless hours day dreaming about your trip. I already have most of my “equipment” ready to go, but I recently decided that we would get new beach chairs to take along with us. After you total the cost of renting a chair everyday, I knew that we would save money in the long run. Also, we can use the chairs year round for other activities.

I quickly discovered that there are some VERY cool chairs available! For example, the Beach Canopy Chair (pictured above) is a low profile, light weight chair perfect for digging your toes into the sand or letting the ocean waves wash over you. It has variable reclining positions and an adjustable canopy to shade you from the sun. It even comes with a carrying case which makes it perfect for beach travel. (There are children’s versions available, too!)

Another great chair is the Folding Sports Couch. This seat is big enough for two adults or three children and holds up to 500 pounds. It has two zippered pockets to store water, keys, sunglasses, etc. It has a strap for easy carrying, and it comes in four different colors. There are several other chairs that I am interested in at backyardcity.com. I am sure that they have the perfect one for you, too!

Folding Sports Couch

Garden Tools & Tips

Outdoor Water Fountains Are Favorites for Garden Decor

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I love gardening, but I don’t really have the kind of time it takes to create the garden of my dreams.  I keep it simple, using hardy perennials and a few colorful annuals, and then I carefully choose a few pieces of garden decor to add character.  Too much garden decor makes a yard look more like a yard sale, but a few special pieces can help show off your home’s unique personality and style.

My favorite piece of garden decor is the outdoor fountain.  Outdoor water fountains are appealing to both the eye and the ear.  They combine the soothing sound of falling water with the beautiful appearance of the fountain itself.  They also attract our feathered friends, which is an extra bonus for bird-lovers.  Outdoor fountains are made in such a variety of styles and materials that you are sure to find one that fits your own personal taste.

Whether you choose an outdoor water fountain or some other decorative garden ornament, garden decor goes a long way to spruce up a plain looking yard or garden.  Just a few carefully chosen pieces allow you to highlight areas of your garden or yard that may otherwise go unnoticed.

Backyard Fun, Healthy Ideas

Wooden Swing Sets Are Great Entertainment

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 Wooden Swing Set

My three year old daughter loves nothing more than being outside on a nice summer day. It is always a struggle finding new and exciting things to keep her entertained. We recently decided to purchase a wooden swing set to try to add some variety to her outdoor activities. It has been such a great addition to our home! It provides endless hours of entertainment and keeps her challenged in a positive way with all the features that it has.

Creating a custom swing set is easy with a purchased kit and some sturdy wood. You simply build the frame, with easy to follow instructions, and attach the accessories of you choice. No swing set would be complete without a slide, and there are many options to choose from. From straight and simple to a spiral tube, you are sure to find the slide that fits your ideal vision. There are also a variety of swings in different colors and designs that can add variety for children of different ages. You can add a bucket swing for your littlest ones. A glider provides great fun for older kids or siblings. A sandbox, monkey bars, rock wall, or rope ladder can also add various degrees of fun for different ages. Finally, add telescope or steering wheel, and the swing set that your kids have always dreamed of will be a reality in your front yard!

We used to spend a lot of time at the park. Now, my daughter has her own park in our front yard. It provides her with entertainment, but also helps keep her active and challenged in outdoor play.

Healthy Ideas, Outdoor Living Spaces

Porch Swings Rock Your Cares Away

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What is it about rocking back and forth gently in a porch swing that takes us to that ultimate level of relaxation?  Does the movement remind us of being rocked as children by a loving caregiver?  Does the gentle sway send a signal to our brains to slow down and breathe deeply?  I cannot explain it, but I can attest to the positive effects that sitting in a porch swing has on my body.  My mind settles, muscles loosen, mood lightens.  And, it doesn’t matter if the day is snowy and cold or hazy and humid; as long as I am dressed for the season, there’s no where I’d rather be than sitting in my porch swing, feet dangling, cares melting away.

Outdoor Entertaining, Outdoor Living Spaces

Outdoor Rugs Offer Strength and Beauty!

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Outdoor Rugs

I am sure that you have rugs inside your house, but have you even considered adding a large rug your porch, patio, or pool area? Outdoor rugs can be a great addition to your home! They are designed to stand up to wear and tear from the weather, pets, and children and are soil, stain, and fade resistant. Usually made of weather resistant polypropylene (also known as Olefin), they are also very easy to clean. Under normal use, you only have to hose the rug off and let it air dry. For tough stains, mild soap and water are all that are required. They are perfect in outdoor rooms, which are becoming ever so popular. Simply put up a pergola, add some nice outdoor curtains and rugs, and patio furniture and, you will have a cozy place to escape to!

While outdoor rugs are specifically designed to stand up to the environment outside, they can also be a beautiful addition to any indoor room. They are perfect for the kitchen and other high traffic/spill prone areas of the home. You can choose from a vast assortment of fabric borders to help your rug match any room of your house.

Whether you to place an all-weather rug inside or outside of your home, it will surely add versatility, durability, and style!