Column: A forward, look back

The fall frenzy for outdoor living has arrived. Homeowners are squeezing every last ounce of incredible outdoor living into their lives in anticipation of winter’s inevitable hibernation. Family’s thirst to install projects so they can enjoy them yet this year and be ready for the first sunny weekend in March is delightful. And smart. It’s a grateful sign of improved perspectives and lifted spirits.

Let’s appreciate the bold trends established this season that will fuel 2015.

●BOLD COLORS were “very happy, because were all feeling better” according to GardenMedia’s Suzi McCoy. Brightly colored accent cushions and rugs help flourish once tired spaces into magnets of fun!

●QUALITY FURNITURE at least entered conversations. I understand, it’s difficult to drop several thousand dollars in upscale patio furniture after an extensive outdoor project. But, quality furniture will last decades. Proper winter storage and regular covering also will extend the life by several years.

●FESTIVAL LIGHTING and outdoor lighting has become an acceptable, almost essential, phase and expense. Installing festival string lights is a great DIY project. Merge indoors/outdoors by night lighting. Improve safety. Enhance romance.

●GRILLING has always been a determined hobby for outdoor living enthusiasts and the Green Egg has elevated it to a cult-like level. Who knew I would be talking about spice rubs with Rotary buddies? Get courageous with a pot of rosemary, thyme and basil for extreme flavors. It’s incredibly entertaining to snag a few herbs and chop them up for guests. The fragrance explodes the patio and kitchen with brilliant delight.

Let’s push the season until the icy cold extinguishes our determination. Extend outdoor living into December with outdoor heaters/fire feature, festive lighting and sheer endurance to enjoy the outdoors like never before.

Your friends, family and life will be thrilled.