Thursday, July 19, 2012

Backyard Summer Oasis {Sears Card Giveaway}

Summer is my favorite season of the year. My family loves spending as much time outdoors as possible. Grilling and dining on the deck, or enjoying drinks with friends while watching the kids play in the yard are activities we love. So creating a backyard summer oasis was a huge goal for us when we moved in. With a few easy steps you can create your own backyard summer oasis. (Keep reading to the end because one lucky reader will win a Sears Gift Card just for answering a question)!
 
Table with painted Vases (733x800)
This is how our deck looked a few years ago. It’s not exactly an oasis is it?
 
deck before
 
The first step we took to create an oasis we would love, was to purchase comfortable, all weather seating. This was in addition to the patio table and chair we already owned. The all weather wicker has held up nicely in our hot and humid climate. Having multiple places for people to sit and relax is important, especially if you enjoy entertaining. You want your guests to feel cozy, comfortable, and welcome.
 
chair and planter (800x624)
 
The second step to create our backyard oasis was to purchase an all weather area rug. The minute we laid that rug down, the deck took on the feeling of an outdoor room. The small kids would play with toys on the rug while parents enjoyed some down time lounging in the chairs or loveseat. We also added an aluminum coffee table. If you’re choosing outdoor tables, I really recommend aluminum. There’s no worry about rusting!
 
deck after
 
The third step to create a backyard oasis was to accessorize the deck. Adding multiple colorful potted plants along with lanterns for evening mood lighting and a few other decorative touches, makes the deck complete.
 
Planter and bee
 
The fourth step in creating a backyard oasis is providing privacy. We built a privacy screen on one end of the deck and planted lush greenery and fast growing, flowering trees to help give our yard a sense of enclosure and intimacy.
 
Privacy Screen
 
Now that I have shared what turns my backyard into my perfect summer oasis, I want to know what you’ve done to transform your backyard into your oasis. One of my lucky readers will win a $25 Sears gift card!
Need help finding your own pieces for your backyard? Sears is bringing the ease of searching for those perfect pieces with their recently launched iPad digital catalog. On your computer? Don't fear, Sears has an amazing digital catalog built just for you.
This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Sears. The opinions and text are all mine. Official Sweepstakes Rules.

Kim