This summer, my camping buddy Cyndi and I decided we wanted to do a “tour” of campgrounds in northern Illinois, near our homes. We have limited resources and time, so I needed to choose the right spots for us. Admittedly, my first choice wound up being a great place to go back to, but only …
There is nothing I value more than being able to relax in my yard. After a long day, my family and I gather outside, talk, laugh, and just enjoy ourselves. Very often, we also invite our friends and neighbors to spend time with us. For many years the backyard was the center of our social …
The summer season is ending and many families are looking for a solution to make the most of the remaining sunshine. If you can’t leave the house, why don’t you create the vacation of your dreams in your own backyard? With a little planning and imagination, you can bring the campground home and set up …
Are you on the search for fun ways to entertain the family during your next backyard camping adventure? While there is something to be said for the peace and tranquility of nature, sometimes you just need a fun game or activity to enjoy your time together. My husband and I are avid campers, taking every …
Who doesn’t love grilling a delicious barbecue meal? It’s just you, your trusty grill, good meat, and great company. Unfortunately, anyone who’s ever been to a cookout will know how uncomfortable it is working under the hot sun. Additionally, flighty weather and rain are a massive inconvenience if you work with an uncovered grill station. …
As the summer months start to wind down and the temperatures drop, many outdoor lovers may be packing up their gear and saying goodbye to the camping season. But wait! For many outdoor lovers, the time for hiking, camping, and paddling is far from over. It is my favorite time of year to break out …
If you have plans to entertain friends and family on your patio or back deck, then you want to set up your dream patio seating area. We certainly did when redoing our patio space recently! It includes a deck area with plenty of space for everyone, comfortable patio furniture, and, of course, the latest gadgets and accessories …
If you enjoy entertaining outdoors or spending your time relaxing in the fresh air, then you know how quickly the rain, wind, sun, snow, or local bugs can ruin an otherwise great day! The good news is that you can prepare for whatever Mother Nature may throw your way by including a backyard tent in …
Camping is an outdoor activity that everyone has to do at least once in their lifetime! While camping used to entail roughing it outdoors and sleeping in a flimsy cheap tent, tents have evolved into durable shelters that protect you from everything, including rain, and keep you comfortable in the outdoors. When you’re looking for …
As dog owners, my husband and I enjoy spending as much time with our pups as possible. It includes bringing them along on our many adventures. At least once a month, we pack up our tent and all our camping gear and head out to explore the great outdoors as a ‘pack’, During our trips, …