by Jaimela King

Created on: April 05, 2007   Last Updated: October 14, 2010

It's spring again and soon it will be summer. This is the ideal time to start thinking about what you need to create an outdoor haven. For my part, as soon as I possible can, I spend most of my free time in the back yard. For those who live in regions where the summer months are short, making the most of this time requires a certain amount of planning. Here are a few of the strategies you could employ to expand your living space and make the most of outdoor living.

A great dining area is a must. I have a love affair with lawn furniture. I ensure I have enough seating for the family and visitors and that the seating is comfortable and well placed. You wouldn't want to place the dining furniture under a tree frequented by birds. To do so would could result in the addition of unwanted toppings on your burgers. Choose an area with a view. If you have a pool, a pond or a fountain, ensure the dining furniture is place with a view in mind. As for other outdoor furniture, I like to have lounging chairs placed throughout the back yard. Some can be placed in quieter areas, for reading or strategically placed for views of the garden.

Music in the backyard, is not given as much attention as it deserves. A stereo or a CD player should be designated for the outdoor areas. Having music while you eat, relax or work outside gives that home like feeling to the outdoors. Some of my friends have gone so far as to move a TV outside. This is a bit extreme and I don't recommend it. The whole idea of outdoor living is to be one with nature and to enjoy the fruits, sights and sounds of nature. If you must watch TV, stay indoors.

There are many other things you can do to make your outdoor experience beautiful. A hammock is highly recommended. It could well be the most comfortable furniture in your garden. Warning! Do not lay in a hammock unless you have at least 3 uninterrupted hours to devote to this activity or rather, inactivity. The sense of peace, relaxation and urge to sleep brought on by the hammock experience, is overwhelming.

If you have never thought about, or tried outdoor living, this is the year to start. I promise you will enjoy it. For those of you already hooked on the idea, keep looking for creative and new ways to better enjoy the experience.

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