Lighting Your Outdoor Living Space On a Budget

Second to great company, lighting is probably the most important element in creating amazing outdoor evening experiences. Good lighting can even make a simple setting shine.

I would like to offer you a few easy hacks to upgrade the lighting for your outdoor gathering space, without blowing your budget.

First, let’s review the problems:

Harsh Light Sources

Even worse than no light at all, is having a single light source that is just harsh and blinding for your guests. Flood lights and other security lights meant to light a whole yard from a single point are not meant to be welcoming and do nothing for the mood, especially if they have motion sensors and turn off until someone generously waves at it like a mad man.

Deep Dark Shadows

Along with harsh light sources comes deep shadows. While the person facing the light is well lit, and mildly assaulted, the person with their back to the light is unrecognizable. Apart from that, the shadows cast by people and objects are stark and unattractive.

The solution is to have multiple, softer light sources, to light everyone’s face gently, no matter where they are facing. Here are a few ideas for achieving that.

Sconces

Start by swapping out any ugly security light with an attractive sconce. You shouldn’t need an electrician for this if you’re handy. Just make sure the power is off. If you get a fixture with an outlet too, take it. You can use an outlet for some of the other ideas in this list.

Solar Landscape Lights

Seriously consider some solar landscape lights. Solar technology is getting better by the day. My lights stay on for many hours after dusk. I find that they can make a pathway very welcoming and define the perimeter of your entertainment space. Throwing some light under those creepy hedges and shrubbery doesn’t hurt either.

Dining Table Light

If you are sitting around a dining table you definitely want to see everyone’s face, and to see what you are eating. Sometimes candles don’t do the trick. You may want to try a kerosene lamp or cordless led light. I’ve also used a small bedroom lamp, just passing the power cord though the umbrella hole if you have one. It’s novel and charming.

Umbrella Lights

If you have an umbrella over your dining table, how about under-umbrella lights. These can be retrofitted and battery operated and very cost effective.

Fire

If you can do it, go for the open flames. A fire pit or tiki torches throw really warm light on peoples faces. The flickering is extra. And if you use citronella fuel you can chase away the mosquitoes too.

Light a Tree

For some reason this is not done enough. Wrap a nearby tree with string flights. This can give a warm glow from a wide source, and it always adds a touch of magic to the air.

Bistro Lights

Last but not least is my favorite, bistro lights. If you can only do one thing, do this. Hang them along your roof’s gable, run them out to a pole, or into the trees, zigzag, crisscross, form a canopy, you can’t really do anything wrong with bistro lights. They really spread the light around well and they create a festive atmosphere.

Oh, and if someone is on the grill, please make sure they have enough light to see whether they are burning the meat or serving it raw.

June 10, 2022February 25, 2023

How Much Should a Barbeque Pit Cost?

The cost of a barbecue pit can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type, size, and quality of the pit. Here are some general guidelines to consider:

Type of barbecue pit: Barbecue pits can come in many different types, including charcoal, gas, wood-fired, and electric. The cost can vary depending on the type, with charcoal and wood-fired pits typically being less expensive than gas or electric models.
Size of barbecue pit: The size of the barbecue pit will also affect the cost. Smaller pits can be less expensive, while larger pits with more features can cost more.
Quality of materials: The quality of materials used to build the pit can also affect the cost. For example, a pit made from high-quality stainless steel will typically cost more than one made from lower-grade steel.
Additional features: Some barbecue pits come with additional features, such as built-in thermometers, warming racks, or side burners. These features can increase the cost of the pit.

So, you can expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars for a barbecue pit, depending on the factors listed above. A basic charcoal or wood-fired pit can cost as little as $100, while a high-end gas or electric pit with all the bells and whistles can cost $5,000 or more. Here are some examples of barbecue pit brands and their price ranges:

Weber: Weber is a well-known brand that offers a variety of charcoal and gas grills and smokers. Their prices range from around $100 for a basic charcoal grill to $2,000 or more for a high-end gas grill.
Traeger: Traeger is a popular brand of wood pellet grills that range in price from around $400 for a basic model to $2,000 or more for a larger, more advanced model.
Big Green Egg: The Big Green Egg is a high-end ceramic charcoal grill that can be used as a smoker or oven. Prices for the Big Green Egg start at around $400 for a small model and go up to over $4,000 for a large, fully-loaded model.
Napoleon: Napoleon is a brand that offers a range of gas and charcoal grills, with prices ranging from around $500 for a basic gas grill to over $2,000 for a high-end charcoal grill.
Pit Boss: Pit Boss is a brand that specializes in wood pellet grills and smokers, with prices ranging from around $300 for a basic model to over $1,000 for a larger, more advanced model.

There are many other brands of barbecue pits available, and prices can vary widely depending on the specific model and features. These are just a few examples to give you an idea of the price range for different types of pits.

April 25, 2022February 25, 2023

Pocono Destinations

Ten Must-Visit Pocono Destinations

The Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania are a beautiful destination with plenty of fun and exciting things to see and do. Here are some cool places to visit in the Poconos:

Bushkill Falls – This natural wonder is a series of eight cascading waterfalls that are surrounded by beautiful forests and hiking trails.
Camelback Mountain Resort – This resort offers skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and a waterpark and adventure park in the summer.
Jim Thorpe – This charming town is full of Victorian-era buildings and offers plenty of shops, restaurants, and outdoor activities.
Pocono Raceway – Race fans can watch NASCAR races and other events at this famous racetrack.
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area – This area is a great place to go hiking, camping, fishing, and boating.
Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway – This railway offers scenic tours through the stunning Lehigh Gorge.
The Crossings Premium Outlets – This shopping center offers over 100 stores featuring top brands and designer outlets.
Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm – This historic farm showcases the daily life of a Pennsylvania German family in the 1800s.
Pocono Snake and Animal Farm – This zoo features a variety of exotic animals, including snakes, tigers, and monkeys.
The Stourbridge Line – This historic railroad offers scenic tours through the Pocono Mountains, including a fall foliage tour in the autumn.

March 25, 2022February 25, 2023

Retiring in the Poconos

Retiring in the Poconos

Retiring in the Poconos can be a great option for those who enjoy the outdoors and a slower pace of life. The Pocono Mountains region in northeastern Pennsylvania is known for its scenic beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and relatively affordable cost of living compared to other retirement destinations.

Here are some things to consider if you’re thinking about retiring in the Poconos:

Cost of living: The Poconos is generally more affordable than other retirement destinations, but the cost of living can vary depending on the specific town or community you choose to live in. Housing costs are generally lower than in major cities, but you’ll still want to do your research and make sure you can afford the area you choose.
Climate: The Poconos has a four-season climate with warm summers and cold winters. If you’re retiring to the Poconos, you’ll want to make sure you’re comfortable with the climate and prepared for the winter weather.
Outdoor activities: The Poconos is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, fishing, skiing, and more. If you enjoy being active and spending time in nature, retiring in the Poconos could be a great fit for you.
Healthcare: As with any retirement destination, healthcare is an important consideration. The Poconos has a number of hospitals and healthcare providers, but you’ll want to make sure you’re comfortable with the quality and accessibility of healthcare in the area you choose.
Community: The Poconos has a tight-knit community, with many retirees choosing to live in active adult communities or smaller towns. If you’re looking for a close-knit community where you can make friends and get involved, retiring in the Poconos could be a great choice.

Overall, retiring in the Poconos can be a great option for those looking for a quieter, more affordable retirement destination with plenty of outdoor activities and a tight-knit community. Just make sure you do your research and choose a community that fits your needs and budget.