City Lifestyle

Want to start a publication?

Learn More

Featured Article

Make It a Great Summer in Your Own Backyard!

Summer has always been my favorite time, especially when I was a kid, and then when my own children were younger. How many adults view summer the same way by really taking time off work?

As the days grow warmer, and most of our kids are out of school, do you have things scheduled or are you a spur of the moment planner? While my family is more the spur of the moment type, obviously it’s often wiser and more cost effective to plan.

Planning also gives you something to look forward to. For example, planning a staycation and perhaps inviting a few friends and family members over to enjoy a well thought-out easy menu, catered for potluck meal is amazing. Enjoy games, movies, jacuzzi or just swimming.

We spend so much time and money fixing up our homes and yards, we should make time to enjoy them. If you’re not exactly happy with your yard or patio, take a moment to see how you can give it a fresh look. If that’s not your forte, ask someone to give you some ideas. We just revived a patio next to our master bedroom, and it has made such a huge difference. This is where we want to relax—even our children were excited. Be sure to create a space that is  calming, not cluttered, with some comfortable furniture to relax in. Consider how to make your backyard summer-ready—maybe it’s new patio furniture or planting flowers or a garden. Maybe it’s just taking down some drapes to let the natural light brighten your home. . I know this sounds cliché, but it really does make a difference. Ask yourself, what brings you joy?

Take a look on Pinterest or search for pictures that make you happy and re-create the scene, so you can have the best summer in your own home and yard.

Make this your most relaxing summer yet, filled with love and joy!

Kim Pagano is brought to you by the award-winning talk radio station AM 1590 KVTA. She brings you the Brighter Side of the 805, Saturdays from 7 to 8 a.m., reminding us how important it is to "Look Good, Feel Good, Do Good." Subscribe to her podcast: ITunes/The Kim Pagano Show.