One thing I never knew how much I would miss when it was gone was a good back yard. In Napa, we were in a small apartment with no yard for six months and it was rough! I love having a yard for so many reasons. The kids have a space to play, and we all have a space to enjoy the outdoors comfortably! We have out-of-town guests this weekend, so the back yard has been fully utilized the last couple of days and I LOVE it. I’ve decided that it doesn’t take much to have a back yard that invites peace and happiness.

Relax.

Is there a space to lounge and read or watch the sun go down? A hammock or outdoor day bed would be the perfect thing. We love our Kyleigh Cotton Hammock (with stand) from Wayfair. Lincoln has clearly fallen in love with it…

Gather.

Our conversation patio set is central to our back yard experience. An area to sit and dine al fresco, or listen to music and and chat with coffee or a glass of wine is crucial for a perfect back yard.

Play.

Is there plenty of space to run and play? This was so important to us as we looked for a house to rent. We love that our back yard is terraced with plenty of flat space on both “levels”. Charlie and Grayson would live out there if I let them, I think. We’ve had everything from slip and slides to outdoor movies in our back yard.

Eat, Drink and Be Merry.

Food and drink are the cornerstone of socialization, am I right?! Consider a grill and/or a nice bar cart for the best in outdoor entertaining. We have a super simple and inexpensive grill from Wayfair that we have definitely put some miles on this season! There’s just something about cooking and eating outside that screams “American summer”.

Check out Wayfair for everything your back yard needs from decor to furniture to swing sets and grills- and make your back yard a place you want to be.