Your backyard is one of the best places to relax and play in the summertime. As Michiganders, we can use all of the Vitamin D we can get. Spending a couple of hours in your backyard is the perfect excuse to soak up some sun. If your backyard is killing your summer vibes, here are a few “must-dos” that will get you outside and one “don’t” that will save you money and stress.
1. DO have a gathering place.
Every backyard should have a focal point. This is the area where people will gravitate toward when entering your backyard. Ideas for your focal point could be an outdoor dining table or a bonfire pit. If you’re feeling creative and motivated, you can build an outdoor oasis or even a tree fort!
2. DO add some quality entertainment.
To inspire your family to put down the iPads and get outside, put something fun to do in your backyard. By day, you can make an impromptu Twister game with spray paint or install a slackline for fun balance and strength challenges. By night, you can create a huge pillow quilt for star gazing or make a pop-up movie theater.
3. DO that one thing you’ve been putting off.
There’s always that one project that we tell ourselves we’ll do every time summer rolls around. It could be putting in a vegetable garden or maybe it’s removing some ugly shrubs. Whatever that pesky project may be, roll up your sleeves and devote a day to getting it done. You’ll be really glad you did and your backyard will be better for it!
4. DON’T install an outdoor kitchen.
Outdoor kitchens were all the craze a couple of years ago. Although, not so much any more. It turns out they require a lot of maintenance and can become quite costly. A lot of people don’t realize they have to winterize the kitchen, too. Basically, your outdoor kitchen will become a money pit that you don’t use half as much as you thought you would. Our advice? Don’t do it!
