So you want to expand your indoor oasis to the great outdoors. Most of us have a room or corner of our home we consider to be our oasis. In this spot we can stare into space to daydream, or outdoors to admire the natural beauty. For some of us who have the luxury of some outdoor space, we can expand that favorite spot to the great outdoors.

Who wants to be confined to the house when the weather is beautiful outdoors? What about entertaining? We want to entertain outside during the warm summer months. If you think like me, that means less cleaning. Even in spring and fall we can light an outdoor fire pit on cool evenings and enjoy longer outdoor entertaining seasons.

Outdoor Comforts: Fire Pits to Topiaries

Small yards and patios are perfect for vegetable and herb gardens. So much can be done to create the illusion of more space as well as make it a comfortable spot to relax and entertain. A few examples are:

? Hanging Baskets

? Window Boxes

? Ceramic or other odd conversation piece

? Outdoor Fire Pits or chimineas

? Topiary plants

These examples are great for adding depth to your outdoor oasis. Hanging baskets filled with moss and beautiful annuals will give your yard or patio a variety of color from year to year. Window boxes serve the same purpose. Just don't place them too close to your fire pit! That would create a fire that you just don't want to sit around! For a good resource for firepits and accessories, check out the multiple web sites available offering the latest from every manufacturer of firepits out there.

Annuals only bloom during their growing season before the foliage dies. Subsequently, more have to be planted for the next growing season, which allows for color and variety. Vegetables and herbs can be planted in small spaces as well as in window boxes, or standing clay pots. A topiary adds shape and gives your space a whimsical flair. A couple of lawn chairs, your fire pit, music, and your favorite beverage, and you will be the envy of your neighbors.

Great Outdoors and a Rolling Landscape

If you have a large yard with back yard space, shame on you for not making the most of it! Homeowners with a lot of space have even more options. The idea is to create several cozy sitting areas for you, your family, and guests. Hammocks and swings add that relaxing or romantic place of tranquility. There are so many do it yourself ideas to choose from. A central focal point would be a good place to start. That focal point could be:

? Koi pond with a bridge to enhance it

? Gazebo(s)

? Outdoor fire pit(s)

It would also be a great idea to devise a plan with your landscaper unless you are blessed with the do-it- yourself gene. Larger pieces of land will require 2 or more open fire pits for those cool evenings. A designated place for your garden as well as your annuals and perennials blooming throughout the year will prompt you to stop and smell the roses.

Whatever you end up doing, plan carefully so that your outdoor creation will feel like the comforts of home. Choose a fire pit with a design that reflects your taste, or a hammock that fits two. Your choices are limitless.