Outdoor Living: Not a New Idea

by Sherry Holetzky | More from this Blogger

18 Jul 2008 11:24 AM

Stop and think about it. While there may not have been as much fanfare over outdoor living in the past, or it may not have even been described in that way, it's not a new concept. Look at older homes in the South or even newer designs created with that old-fashioned, southern mansion charm.

Huge, covered, wrap-around porches encircling homes are a perfect example and rocking chairs and swings aligning those porches make it an even stronger statement.

I love those old houses. Wrap around porches just give me a sense of family. Long, leisurely afternoons enjoying simple things like a nice breeze and a cold glass of lemonade. Or, a huge family get-together, with tables and chairs, not to mention homemade food, love, and laughter, filling the porch.

You might not need a parasol any longer but you'll still find that some of the best memories come from spending time outdoors with your family. Today, we might see more covered decks than porches, barbeque grills that look like restaurant equipment designed for the outdoors, and gorgeous furniture that could be used inside your home, but it's all the same idea. Home. Family. Nature. Comfort.

We can all make the most of outdoor living, even if we don't live in old southern mansions. A deck, porch, patio, or even just the yard can become a great additional space without a ton of time and money. Just make it comfortable. You can do it.

Even inexpensive outdoor furniture can quickly become more comfortable with a touch of paint (Krylon even works on plastic) and some cushions. Add a small table for snacks or drinks and arrange furniture to feel like more of a conversation area.

You will often hear people say, "Get on with living." Well, it's also time to get on with outdoor living. You'll be glad you did.

More on outdoor living:

Decorative Touches for Outdoor Living Spaces

Outdoor Entertaining: Grilling Caring for Your Deck

Learn more about Sherry Holetzky

Sherry Holetzky is a work at home mom and freelance writer. Married to her best friend, Sherry and her husband are raising their family in a quiet rural setting in the beautiful Ozark Mountains.

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