All Outdoor Patio Furniture

We’re always looking for ways to put more color into our lives.  Indoors, we carefully choose particular types of paint, wallpaper, furniture, and other home accents, so that we can be surrounded by our favorite shades.

Outside, there are even more possibilities, which include the countless varieties and hues of flowers, plants, and shrubs that are available for our landscaping, as well as those that exist naturally.  We also have scores of color choices for our patio furniture and picnic tables, which we can further embellish with other outdoor décor items, such as outdoor furniture cushions, and patio umbrellas.

Among the things that nature adds to the kaleidoscope, birds are the most enchanting; and bird-watching is one of the country’s most popular pastimes.  This is quite understandable, for many reasons.  For one thing, some birds have spectacular plumage that will absolutely take your breath away.  Then, there are the endless, beautiful tunes that they sing; and even those common little brown sparrows are a delight to watch.  Indeed, birds of all feathers can bring us joy.

While it’s a lot of fun – and great exercise – to go hiking through fields and woods to observe different species, you can bring them in droves to your own backyard, by putting up some birdhouses and birdfeeders.  Believe me, you’ll never regret this move.  In fact, once you start feeding the birds, you’ll be so fascinated, and entertained, that you will never want to stop.  They’re captivating, playful, and downright hilarious; and the more you watch them, the more you’ll want to read and learn about them.

I cannot tell you how much enjoyment these little winged creatures have brought me over the years (and, yes, I’m watching them at my birdfeeders at this very moment).  There are several types of birdfeeders that you can use, including hopper, platform, hanging, tube, and post-mounted.

In future entries, I will have some tips about using these birdfeeders, and information on the kinds of foods that will soon have them brimming with living color.

Yours Outdoors,

Kathy

Tags: birdfeeders, birdhouses, home accents, outdoor decor, outdoor furniture cushions, patio furniture, patio umbrellas, picnic tables

A backyard cabana is the definition of casual sophistication.  If you’re not sure, exactly, what the modern cabana looks like… let me take you on a small and abbreviated tour of this fantastic backyard fixture.  Originally a Spanish word, a cabaña is a tropical shelter resembling a cabin. Over the years, it has become a structure encompassing vacationing relaxation; a hip and current bungalow embracing the laid-back attitude of the Tropics.  Now, almost all seaside and luxury resorts boast cabanas for socializing, relaxing, and enjoying the island atmosphere.  But, you don’t have to shell out the cash for a week long vacation of jam-packed cabana enjoyment… you can create your own backyard oasis to enjoy the sun for as long as you like! Here are five steps to consider when planning your backyard cabana.

1. Quality: Though your cabana will be a place to leave your cares at the door, make sure to take plenty of care when choosing how your cabana will be constructed.  Using substandard materials, building professionals, or designs will just lead to a disaster and a huge headache.  A cabana that has to be worried about is a complete failure of the entire purpose, after all. The old photos of cabanas constructed of rotting drift wood may look romantic, but you won’t feel so dreamy when it collapses during a rainstorm!
2. Materials: The materials you choose for your cabana is a vital and important decision; the aesthetics, durability, and cost of your structure all very much depend on your material choice.  Western Red Cedar is the most traditional option.  The rich wood with its aromatic qualities will completely transform your mood.  Western Red Cedar also contains a high deposit of natural oils that act as preservatives against wood decay and insect damage.  If you’re looking for a cabana that calls back the spirit of yesterday, Western Red Cedar may be your best choice.  Northern White Cedar is a similar material and possesses the same impressive durability.  But, White Cedar does carry a hint of pinkish white that sets it apart from other materials.  The eye-catching hue creates interest and a certain hint of whimsy.  Dura-Temp is an economical choice that will last over twenty years.  The plywood-based panel siding has a smooth surface that looks natural, but resists moisture, dents, checks and cracks.  It also holds paint incredibly well if you’re looking to add a bit of color to your backyard project.  Pine is another material that will take paint without any problems.  With minimal maintenance and still enduring beauty, Pine is a fantastic choice for someone looking for value and beauty.  Finally, Vinyl is the most untraditional choice that might be perfect for you! It will protect your structure from any kind of weather and is virtually maintenance free.  If you’re looking for a cabana with a bit more of a substantial and house-like look, vinyl will do the trick!
   

   An Oval White Cedar Cabana

3. Shape:  Did you think cabanas only came in four-sided squares (I don’t think there are any other kinds of squares…)?  Nope!  Octagons, rectangles, ovals, hexagons and elongated hexagons with belle roofs are all viable and interesting choices for your backyard cabana. Many rectangle cabanas can have porches attached to them for a more dramatic entrance way and belle-roof cabanas give a wistful silhouette.  You will want to consider how many people will be using your cabana on a daily basis and what kind of atmosphere you’ll want to create.  Rectangular and Elongated Hexagon shapes are more likened to indoor rooms, and therefore more apt to traditional furniture arrangement.  But, Octagons, Ovals, and Hexagons will make you feel truly removed from the ordinary.                                                                                                                                                                                   
4. Use: Don’t let anyone define how your cabana should be used for you!  A backyard cabana should be a personal retreat; so just think of the perfect place to retreat to after a long day… and decorate accordingly!  Light some candles, bask in the sun streaming through your skylights, and enjoy an exercise and meditation area.  Install a flat screen for a dynamite place to watch football games and enjoy the grill right outside the front door!  Your designs will reflect your intended use, so whether you are planning to create a serene and quiet retreat, or a neighborhood destination for get-togethers and parties, your backyard cabana can and will be a complete reflection of your style and personality!                                                                                                                            
5. Décor: Now that you’ve decided how to use it, you get to decorate it!  Remember, the materials you use in your décor will define its style of relaxation.  Try wicker, red cedar, cherry, and teak for sophistication and elegance.  Polywood, vinyl, and coated metal all boast maintenance free properties that will keep you feeling relaxed if upkeep is just not on your to-do list.  But, no matter the material, your options are nearly endless.  For tranquil and calm get-aways, use a natural and soothing rocking motion to propel you toward peace.  A porch swing, porch glider, or a classic rocking chair all provide the proven restful motion that will naturally guide you toward more quiet thinking.  There’s a reason your mother rocked you to sleep… it’s a calming motion enjoyed by almost everyone.  Chaise lounges, though stationary, provide the same feeling of ultimate repose and pampering.  But, of course, if your heart is already set on that flat screen TV, try patio groups, outdoor sofas, comfy patio chairs with ottomans, and (of course) coffee tables and end tables for drinks and snacks! A backyard cabana is also a fantastic structure of an outdoor dining room.  Are you tired of traditional dinner parties and mediocre barbecues?  Go upscale with sophisticated outdoor dining sets, picnic tables, and even bistro sets.  Go the extra mile with a Teak Monarch Bar and high bar tables with bar stools.  You’ll wonder why people feel the need to “go out” when you can simply waltz out your backdoor to the swankiest place in town.

The materials and shape of your cabana, as well as the type of outdoor furniture you use to decorate it will define your retreat.  But, such a versatile structure is sure to fit your needs because you can design it to be EXACTLY what you want!  Doesn’t it feel fantastic? What do you have in mind; have you started planning yours yet?

See you in your Cabana!

Hazel.

Tags: backyard cabana, bar tables, barstools, belle-roof cabanas, bistro sets, cabana, chaise lounges, coffee tables, dura-temp, end tables, northern white cedar, ottomans, outdoor dining sets, outdoor sofas, patio chairs, patio groups, picnic tables, pine, porch glider, porch swing, rectangle cabanas, rocking chair, Teak Monarch Bar, vinyl, western red cedar

As we march toward March, cabin fever is at fever pitch for those of us who live in areas where winter is winter.  With spring about to spring, we long for the long, sunny days, when we can garden in our gardens, plant plants, and picnic at our picnic tables.  Now, those in frozen regions may say that things won’t melt ‘til Memorial Day; but, land agoshen, that’s a scary notion!  All of this cold has really gotten old, and May may be too long a way away to wait.

Of course, if you live in a warm climate, you don’t have to worry about winter; and if you have an enclosed porch, sunroom, or gazebo, at least, you can use your patio furniture all year long.  Otherwise, relax in the knowledge that spring is but a few weeks away, and get your outdoor furniture ready.  Make sure that it’s up to another season of heavy use and abuse, especially if it’s old and worn.

You may have a faded favorite that holds cherished memories of family gatherings, and has held cherished family members who are no longer around.  It’s well broken in, and, perhaps, broken down; but you still don’t want to part with it.  However, if any piece of porch furniture is questionable, safety-wise, you’ll have to decide whether or not it can – or should – be repaired.  For example, an old rocker that’s off its rocker, and has to be propped against a wall to be kept upright, is a lost cause; but a porch chair with a loose rung or two may just need a bit of glue.

Before you take the patio chair apart, make sure that you will remember which pieces fit where, by stretching a length of masking tape from the leg to the end of the rung that goes into it, and labeling it with corresponding letters or numbers at each end.  When you pull the rung out of the leg, just tear the tape in two, so that you can simply match ‘A’ to ‘A’ or ‘1’ to ‘1’ when putting it back together.  The masking tape should peel off easily, without damaging the finish; but if you’re unsure, either test an inconspicuous area, or use painter’s tape.

Loosen and remove the old glue by brushing hot vinegar onto the joints.  This should work in only a few minutes, but if the old glue is very thick, it may take up to an hour to completely dissolve the build-up.  Get all of the old glue off, or the new glue won’t attach properly to the wood fibers.  White or yellow wood glue will work beautifully; epoxy or permanent glue will ensure that your outdoor furniture will never come apart again.

Don’t use nails or brackets to put the patio chair back together; and use screws only if they were there in the first place.  To make certain that everything sets properly, clamp the joints together until the glue dries thoroughly.

Indeed, sometimes, the sentimental value of an old patio chair or porch swing makes it well worth the effort it takes to fix it.  And sometimes, the comic value of something like, say, that backward-tipping rocking chair, makes it priceless to keep around, even if it’s irreparable.  I know I’ve had some real laughs with mine!

Yours Outdoors,

Kathy

Tags: gazebo, Outdoor Furniture, patio chair, patio furniture, picnic tables, porch chair, porch furniture, porch swing, rocking chair, sunroom

Among the many indoor projects that people are working on at this time of the year, painting is one of the most common.  This is understandable, as it’s a great way to give a room a whole new look, without the expense of remodeling; and virtually anyone can do it.  For first-timers, however, the myriad choices in paints can be rather confusing.  Heck, it’s difficult enough just to pick from the millions of available colors.  Then, after you make that monumental decision, you have to figure out whether flat, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, or gloss paint, will best suit your purpose.

So, if you’re not familiar with these terms, remember that flat paint has a matte finish, with no sheen, shine, or shimmer.  Because it doesn’t reflect light, it can hide some minor imperfections; but it’s less durable, more porous, and harder to clean, than glossier types.  This makes it more hospitable to mold and mildew growth, so it shouldn’t be used in high-humidity rooms, such as bathrooms and kitchens, or in backyard structures that aren’t insulated.

Eggshell has just a slight hint of luster, but can add a bit more depth and warmth to a room.  Easier to clean than flat paint, it still disguises small defects, and is less attractive to mildew.

Smooth and somewhat shiny, satin paint is much more durable than flat and eggshell varieties.  Very easy to clean, and resistant to mold and mildew, it’s great for use in bathrooms and kitchens, as well as high-traffic areas.

With its beautiful, sparkling finish, semi-gloss paint is extremely durable and easy to keep clean.  It’s used mostly for trim, doors, and bathroom and kitchen cabinets; but it’s highly reflective, and will draw attention to even the slightest blemish.

Gleaming, glistening gloss paint is mainly for trim, wainscoting, and cabinets; but it can also make a home look stylish and welcoming when used on the front door.  Because it spotlights every imperfection, however, wherever, whenever, and if ever you use it, be sure that whatever you put it on has no flaws whatsoever.

Once you’re done with the indoors, you can start planning a fresh look for the outdoors.  Adding patio furniture to your porch or lawn is a great way to add an entirely new living space to enjoy.   Of course, with the thousands of patio chairs, porch swings, garden benches, swingbeds, picnic tables, Adirondack chairs, chaise lounges, hammocks, accent tables, gliders, outdoor dining tables, garden structures, and ottomans available, there’s practically as many varieties of outdoor furniture as there are paint colors!

Luckily, though, this will cause you no consternation.  Because materials can be easily split into two categories; cedar, pine, oak, cherry, teak, eucalyptus, and cypress, verses aluminum, synthetic wicker, polywood, and vinyl.  Your decision is simple: either you wood, or wood not.

Yours Outdoors,

Kathy

Tags: accent tables, adirondack chairs, aluminum, backyard structures, cedar, chaise lounges, cherry, cypress, eucalyptus, garden benches, garden structures, gliders, Hammocks, oak, ottomans, outdoor dining tables, patio chairs, patio furniture, picnic tables, pine, polywood, porch swings, Swingbeds, synthetic wicker, teak, vinyl

As we anxiously await the arrival of spring, it’s being reported that all of the lower 48 states have snow at this time.  So, it looks like Punxsutawney Phil was dead serious.  In fact, he seems to be downright angry, for some reason.  Well, I don’t know what happened to displease him, but it appears that there’s nothing more dangerous than a vengeful groundhog.

One thing for sure is that we all want to put this behind us, and welcome the warmer days, when we can put out our patio furniture, picnic tables, porch swings, hammocks, gliders, and outdoor sofas, and get back to some refreshing outdoor living.

However, the recent, crippling winter storms, which caused week-long power outages, impassable roads that took days to clear, and nearly-empty store shelves, have taught us that it is possible to have trouble surviving in our own homes.  That’s a lesson that is worth remembering, because, even without snow, at any time of the year, many things can happen, from natural disasters that affect millions, to individual emergencies that occur in our homes.

Therefore, it’s a good idea to have an emergency survival kit, which will include many things that you already have around the house; you may just have to stock up on some items.  Although, in most cases, you’ll probably just have to get through a power outage, you should still be prepared for the worst.

Naturally, the first thing you’ll want is a supply of batteries and flashlights.  Yes, you can use candles, but they pose a real danger, especially when people light a bunch of them in every room, to try to keep their entire houses bright.  Forget about that.  After all, you’re supposed to turn out the lights in empty rooms anyway, so it’s better to use only flashlights, or battery-powered lanterns, particularly with the powerful, long-lasting, LED flashlights that are available today.  Having a portable generator can be a blessing; but it has its own, long list of hazards and safety precautions, so make sure that you know how to use it properly.

You’ll also need a source of heat.  Even if you’re not in danger of freezing, you’ll still want to be comfortable, so, for starters, dress in warm layers, and always have plenty of extra blankets on hand.  If you have a fireplace, that’s great, but make sure that it’s clean and safe to use.  In fact, that should be a part of your yearly routine maintenance.  Kerosene and propane space heaters are also excellent for providing heat, but they, too, require many safety measures, and must be clean, fully operational, and constantly attended.

You should also have a supply of non-perishable foods, such as energy bars and canned goods (make sure you have a manual can opener) on hand.  Try to get things that can be eaten – and enjoyed – cold.

I know, right now, in many areas, it seems like everything’s cold, and impossible to enjoy; but spring will come soon, and winter will be a distant memory.  You know, I’ve heard that they may be making a movie about this month of monstrous storms, which they’ll call “Snowmageddon.”  Hmm.  I prefer, “The Wrath of Phil.”

Yours Outdoors,

Kathy

Don't worry, you'll be using fire places for marshmellows instead of warmth quite soon!

Tags: gliders, Hammocks, outdoor living, outdoor sofas, patio furniture, picnic tables, porch swings

There are places where people are going to be grilling hamburgers and chicken tonight, and having dinner at their picnic tables.  Certainly, somewhere, there are people who are looking forward to getting home from work and relaxing on their porch swings and gliders, having cocktails at their outdoor bistro sets, lying around their pools on chaise lounges or steamer chairs, or napping under shady trees in their hammocks.  Indeed, I know that all of these things are happening somewhere.

A February Evening... for some!

But it ain’t here!  No-o!

In Western Pennsylvania, and many other parts of the country, from the Midwest, to the East Coast, we’re buried under a few feet of snow.  Furthermore, even as utility crews work around the clock to clear roads and restore power to millions of people left in the dark by this past weekend’s storm, round two is dumping several inches on top of what we already have.  Now, meteorologists are saying that even more is on the way this weekend.

Worse yet, besides electricity and heat being out in many places, the shelves in some grocery and hardware stores are almost bare; and even gas supplies are getting low.  Suddenly, so many different types of calamities are occurring, that people are realizing that it can actually be a struggle to survive in their own homes.

Undoubtedly, the cold and snow can wreak all kinds of havoc, from knocking down trees and power lines, to causing roofs to collapse and pipes to burst.  These things can happen in an instant, so it’s important to know where all of the main valves and circuit breakers are in your home, and what controls what.  So, if, for instance, your home is suddenly being flooded, you’ll know how to shut the water off at its source.  Then, at least, you won’t have one catastrophe on top of another.  Make sure that everyone who lives in the house also knows where these things are, and how to operate them.

It’s also a good idea to put together an emergency home survival kit.  Next time, I’ll have some tips on what should go into one.  This can really be a worthwhile project.  Even if you never see a single flake of snow, cheer up; there are tons of other disasters that can happen, so you may still get to use it.

Yours Outdoors,

Kathy

Tags: chaise lounges, gliders, Hammocks, outdoor bistro sets, picnic tables, porch swings, steamer chairs

I hope I’m not pigeon holing our readers too much… but as I spent much of my weekend glued to the weather channel, it seems that the majority of our fine nation was dumped on with snow recently. Here in Pittsburgh, we’re still in a state of snow emergency… with the national guard and over a hundred out-of-state workers trying to dig us out.

But, enough about us… I’m sure you’re much more concerned about your gardens and lawns than the city with six superbowl rings (congratulations Saints)

So, when looking out your windows how, exactly, will you deal with all of that snow and ice covering your garden and landscaping?

Determine Snow-Type: Natural coverings of snow, from falling and drifting, are actually not damaging your flowers and vegetables. In fact, it serves as an insulating layer, and slow melting will provide a lot of much-needed moisture to winter’s dry vegetation. The problem comes when snow plows, snow blowers, and even shuffles pile dense and heavy snow that are slow to melt and too heavy for most trees or shrubs. If your snow removal is within your control, do your best to keep it away from any kind of growth.

Evaluate Trees and Shrubs: Even natural snow in large amounts can be too much for tender branches. To avoid damage to your tress or shrubs, take steps to protect the branches from drooping, bending, or even snapping. Leave you shovel on the driveway and pick up a broom, car brush, or just your gloves to gently sweep the snow from the branches. Remember, a broken branch is like a broken bone, so be careful! Don’t ever shake the plant as the brittle and stressed branches may snap. And, brush in an upward motion to avoid using force to further bend or break a branch. You’ll find best results if you do this before too many inches of snow accumulate… the more often you clean off your trees, the better off you’ll be. A word to the wise: these are great steps to take with snow… but ice is a different story. If the branches are already covered or incased in ice, no matter what you do, any sort of interference will cause more damage. Just let them be to melt naturally.

Protect Structures and Furniture: Though the snow piling up on the arms of your adirondack chairs or atop your accent table look comical and help to really define exactly how much snow has fallen… it’s best to remove the accumulation as quickly as possible. If you can do so safely, sweep snow from the roofs of gazebos, cabanas, and sunrooms. So much weight isn’t good for even heavy structures. If you have any arbors or lattice, you would be surprised at the immense weight piles of snow can boast, and should protect these more delicate garden enhancements. Sweeping the snow from your patio groups, dining sets, and picnic tables should be much less work and require less attention to safety measures… so don’t avoid cleaning them off. While the most durable of woods may not show damage from days under snow piles and ice…such heavy levels of moisture aren’t good for any material. Protect your outdoor furniture so it will serve you best in the spring!

After braving what many newscasters have called, “snow-magedden,” make sure to hang all wet and snowy clothes to dry fully without collecting mildew or mold from being stuffed back into closets or drawers, and make a hot cup of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate. No matter how intelligent our weather-predictors get, you know (perhaps from years of trying to manipulate your garden to produce prize-winning flowers) that nature will always win over human strength. Shovel as you can and don’t let yourself be overworked. In fact, make sure to pull your family and snow-friendly pets out from under their beds’ blankets to make snow angels, snow men, and maybe even adventurous snow tunnels. Protect your lawn from the snow… but don’t forget to enjoy it as well!

now that’s a way to warm up!

See you Outside!

Hazel

Tags: accent tables, adirondack chairs, Arbors, Cabanas, dining sets, garden enhancements, Gazebos, lattics, patio groups, picnic tables, snow removal, Sunrooms

On Tuesday, Punxsutawney Phil came out of hibernation, saw his shadow, and predicted six more weeks of winter.  No surprise there, especially since spring officially begins on March 20^th, which is just over six weeks away; so it’s pretty much the same, shadow or not.

Sure, Groundhog Day is just for fun; but it certainly is strange.  I mean, what started this whole idea of a groundhog, also known as a woodchuck, or a whistle pig, being able to predict the weather?  Naturally, it began ages ago, and, like all other holidays (although it’s not actually a holiday), it’s so wrapped up in obscure traditions and folklore, that it’s difficult to pinpoint its exact origin.

As usual, when it comes to the unusual, the ancient Celts are somewhere in the mix.  In the 5^th century, they believed that, on certain days, halfway between the winter solstice and the vernal equinox, animals possessed supernatural powers that enabled them to predict the weather.  In some parts of Europe, such as Germany and France, people thought that animals coming out of their dens too early would be frightened by their own shadows, and go back inside for another four to six weeks.  Often, these animals were badgers and bears.

Some also suppose Groundhog Day, which falls on Candlemas Day, to be inspired by the old Scottish couplet, “If Candlemas Day is bright and clear, there’ll be two winters in the year.”

It is widely believed that the Pennsylvania Dutch brought the old tradition to this country in the 18^th century.  The first written American reference to Groundhog Day was found in the diary of James Morris, a storekeeper in Berks County, Pennsylvania.  Dated February 5, 1841, it reads:

“Last Tuesday, the 2^nd, was Candlemas Day, the day on which, according to the Germans, the groundhog peeps out of his winter quarters and if he sees his shadow he pops back for another six weeks nap, but if the day be cloudy he remains out, as the weather is to be moderate.”

So it seems that, during the winter, people have always looked anxiously for indications of spring.  Here at CedarStore.com, the signs are unmistakable.  Instead of a rodent popping out of a hole, we have a whole bunch of eye-popping new products coming out.

Yes, we already offer thousands of patio chairs, porch swings, gliders, picnic tables, accent tables, hammocks, garden benches, chaise lounges, and teak screens.  But with these fantastic additions, we’ll have the most extensive collection of outdoor furniture available anywhere, beyond the shadow of a doubt!

Yours Outdoors,

Kathy

Tags: accent tables, chaise lounges, garden benches, gliders, Hammocks, Outdoor Furniture, patio chairs, picnic tables, porch swings, teak screens

As I was saying, there’s more than one unpleasant result of being stuck indoors for most of the winter.  Many people, of course, come down with cabin fever, and won’t be cured until they can get back to cooking on their grills, eating at their picnic tables, napping in their hammocks, and relaxing on their porch gliders.  Furthermore, with all of the windows being closed, the air can get a little, well, stuffy, inside.

A lot of offensive odors like to hang out in the kitchen, because all of the good food in there eventually ends up as discarded bits, in the trash can, garbage disposer, dishwasher, or sink, or as leftovers in the refrigerator.

In fact, this situation may be exacerbated now in certain homes, because some people still have food from the holidays in their refrigerators.  Hard to believe, but, hey, why not?  Some still have their houses decorated, and their Christmas lights on!  (By the way, if you’re in that number, I beg of you – TAKE ‘EM DOWN, ALREADY!!)

(A-hem!) So, remember, like last year, and the holidays, it’s out with the old; and that includes old ice cubes, which can hold onto odors.  Clean up any spills in the refrigerator with a soapy sponge.  Put a quarter-inch of baking soda into a few, shallow dishes, and place them on separate shelves, where they will absorb odors for up to three months.

In the dishwasher, smells can be caused by particles of food stuck inside.  First, clean the filter, which is usually located below the bottom rack, with a paper towel.  Then, run the “quick rinse,” or “rinse only” cycle, with the machine empty, to wash away debris.  Afterward, leave the door open a crack, to air it out.

Offenders in the sink are scraps of food that get stuck in the pipes, or the garbage disposer.  Clean the blades by grinding up the old, smelly ice, or make cubes from equal parts of water and vinegar.  If your disposer has a rubber gasket, rinse it thoroughly on both sides.  Whether or not you have a disposer, pour ½ cup of baking soda into the drain, while running warm water.

Doing these things on a regular basis will make things a lot more agreeable for everyone, and make everyone more agreeable.  After all, people always get along a lot better after they clear the air.

And now, here’s some inspiration to convince you that, yes, spring is coming!

Ahhhh, now doesn’t that feel better?

Yours Outdoors,

Kathy

Tags: Hammocks, Outdoor Furniture, picnic tables, porch gliders, winterizing

Obviously, our expertise lies mainly in outdoor living. Yep. Picnic tables, Adirondack chairs, hammocks, porch swings, gazebos, gardening, grilling – you name it, and we know all about it.

However, at this time of the year, people are doing a lot more indoor living. Of course, most are fantasizing about getting back to outdoor living; but their dreams aren’t necessarily grand. After being cooped up for so long, many are yearning for even the smallest thing the spring can bring, like, for instance, the day when they can open their windows again!

Yeah, the air can certainly get stale inside during the winter, especially when a lot of people live under one roof. So, if you’re dying (and I’m not using that word lightly!) for a breath o’ fresh air, here are some ways to improve conditions indoors.

Try pulling outdoor furniture inside to keep your spirits up!

In most homes, the kitchen is one of the worst offenders, stench-wise. This may seem ironic, because of all of the wonderful, enticing aromas that can emanate from it; but, alas, things do get old, and soon, those inviting scents can become quite unappetizing. Then, with the refrigerator, trash can, garbage disposer, dishwasher, and sink, in the vicinity, it’s the perfect environment for odors to loiter.

Therefore, if you want to get rid of a cooking smell from, say, the fish that you had for supper last night, combine three tablespoons of white vinegar, and one cup of water in a saucepan, and let it boil for several minutes. The vinegar, which is acidic, will soon neutralize the odor, which is alkaline.

As for the trash, it needs no introduction. In fact, in some houses, it’s the first thing that greets you. So, before it gets to the point where it’s screaming for attention, empty it, and wipe away any debris that’s stuck to the inside of the can, or under the lid, with a wet paper towel, then spray the entire thing, inside and out, with disinfectant. Do this once a week, and no one will even know that you have trash in the house.

Next time, I’ll talk about some ways to deal with appliances. Although they’re indispensable, you gotta be tough on ‘em, or they can become quite a disagreeable gang.

Yours Outdoors (well, indoors, for now),

Kathy

Tags: adirondack chairs, Gazebos, Hammocks, picnic tables, porch swings