I think of my backyard as a true "outdoor room" - our house is so small that having the ability to move...elsewhere and not be cooped up, well its critical to my well-being!

My great disappointment is that with all of my medical bills from the various doctor visits, tests, and surgeries, we don't have any money in the budget right now for a nice new chaise lounge. I adore sitting out in the sun (in moderation, of course!) whenever the weather permits. And I found the coolest-looking wood chaise online for a great price...but it will have to wait for another month, perhaps even another year. I did get a gift certificate for my birthday, and besides some new workout clothes and accessories, I think I need a new bird feeder and squirrel baffle. Other than that, my yard is shaping up quite nicely this year.

Last year I found a great deal on a lawn swing - and argued for it, agreeing to assemble it myself etc. Well, as it turns out, we spent countless hours sitting out there until the cold of fall set in. My father-in-law even commended me on what a great addition to our yard it made! I set it up again last month and after my yard work, it was such a wonderful respite to sit back, swinging, listening to the chatter of the birds and smelling all the fresh greenery around me. Ahhhh!

Sometimes I think I'd be better suited to warmer climate...considering how much I dislike the cold, wet fall and early winters we have here. But I really do adore the community here; and I can't imagine spending summer anywhere else.