Simple Ways To Make Your Backyard Feel 100% More Staycation-y

"Between shorter school breaks, kids' summer activities, and the rising cost of travel, your dream vaycay may have taken a back seat this year. That doesn't mean you can't have a getaway right in your own backyard. If you're trying to bring a little vacation to your deck or garden, there are plenty of options... even if you don't have the budget or energy for a big landscape makeover."

"An entire yard transformation can be daunting and costly, so focus on one area that you can make into a sanctuary. For me, this was my deck. I found some inexpensive outdoor couches on sale, popped an outdoor rug underneath, and added a little fountain. The sound of the running water drowned out nearby traffic, and by choosing a couch over a table and chairs, I had a sunny spot to read."

"Think of breaking up your outdoor space into zones. When creating an outdoor sanctuary, having several little spaces you can escape to is just as restful, and probably more realistic, than a total yard rehab. Joe Raboine, VP of Design at Oldcastle APG, a company that specializes in outdoor living spaces, suggests "creating zones or 'rooms' that create a relaxing, layered experience.""

"Every summer, my son and I hit up the public library and pick out books set in gorgeous locations we want to travel to, like the Amalfi Coast or the Scottish Highlands. This has become our favorite place to lounge and read."

Warmer months bring time for gardening, but recovery and travel limits can reveal a lack of comfort in outdoor spaces. Vacation FOMO can be addressed by creating a getaway right at home without major renovations. Start with one manageable area and add simple, affordable comfort elements such as outdoor seating, a rug, and a small fountain for soothing sound. Use the idea of zones by dividing the yard or deck into separate “rooms” that offer different escapes and activities. Layered, relaxing spaces can be more realistic and restful than a complete landscape makeover, especially when budget and energy are limited.

Read at Scary Mommy