Tag: lake life

What to Know About Living on a Houseboat

Posted on Camille Smith

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Photo courtesy of Home Business

For most of us, living on the lake is a dream. But have you ever considered living on the lake? Enter the houseboat. Broadly defined as any kind of floating home, they are typically used for recreational purposes in the U.S. and Canada. However, many people live on a houseboat full time. If you’re curious about the houseboat lifestyle, it’s important to know some basic information to determine whether it’s for you. Thomas Jepsen, architect and founder of Passion Plans, says, “If you’re looking to buy a houseboat, the questions you have to ask yourself are more complicated than the ones you need to ask yourself if you’re buying a house.” At Lake Homes Realty, we’re here to cover some common questions about living on a houseboat.

What is the Typical Cost of Living on a Houseboat?

Photo courtesy of Realty Biz News

Broadly speaking, the average houseboat costs $50,000. While this is still much less than a lake house, even in affordable lake areas, the cost can fluctuate. For example, if you’re aiming for a slightly less glamorous yacht, you’re looking at a much higher cost. However, you can expect to pay around $50,000 for an average 600-square-foot houseboat.

What are Other Financial Considerations?

Photo courtesy of No1 Living

When thinking about the cost of living on a houseboat, it’s crucial to understand the distinction between a houseboat and a floating home. While a houseboat is more akin to a pontoon with a roof, a floating home is a stationary barge tied to a dock. A houseboat has an engine while a floating home doesn’t, making a houseboat essentially the water version of an RV. The distinction is important if you’re planning on getting a mortgage. While you can usually get a mortgage on a floating home, it’s a bit more difficult for houseboats. You may need to prepare to pay upfront! 

However, one benefit of a houseboat compared to a traditional lake home is the lack of property taxes. Unlike a standard lake house, there are no property tax fees with a houseboat. The only expected costs (aside from possible one-time expenses such as repairs) are slip fees or dock rental fees, insurance, and sales tax. A more unpleasant expense is regular payments to have the sewage pumped!

How Should I Design My Houseboat?

Photo courtesy of INHABITAT

Interior decor is a whole different ball game when you’re living on a houseboat. First off, there’s a much smaller space to design, so every square inch counts. As such, open-concept design is popular among houseboat owners. Without walls to divide each room, it’s easier to move about freely in the space, similar to a studio apartment. Illusion also plays a role. For instance, houseboat residents will often paint the walls white to make the space look larger.

As for furniture, you may need to cut down on belongings, keep only the essentials, and find alternative storage strategies. After all, the houseboat lifestyle is all about connecting with nature without too many material possessions. For the stylistic component, Pinterest is a great stop for houseboat interior design inspiration! From DIY projects to organizational ideas, it’s a fantastic platform for brainstorming.

Is the Houseboat Lifestyle for Me?

Photo courtesy of Bless This Stuff

When it comes to living on a houseboat, only you can decide if it’s right. While there are certainly advantages and disadvantages to this lifestyle, its ultra-close proximity to water may mean it’s worth it! If you’re on the fence, you can try renting a houseboat to see if it’s for you. For example, Houseboating.org is a one-stop shop for rental opportunities across the country. Once you’ve had a houseboat vacation, make your decision from there.

Thomas Jepsen lists several factors to consider: “You have to consider that buying a houseboat is a major decision,” he says. “How long do you see yourself having the houseboat? Will you live in it permanently? Are you uprooting yourself from more convenient things like utilities, among others? In any case, there’s no right or wrong answer to this decision, but one that should match the house and the buyer’s lifestyle.” 

At Lake Homes Realty, we’re all about the lake lifestyle – whether it’s a home or a houseboat! We hope these tips are helpful.

Austin Lake Home Living: Scenic & Serene

Posted on Jeanne Delathouder
Photo courtesy of Dror Baldinger, FAIA Architectural Photography

This stunning home perches high above beautiful Lake Austin and epitomizes easy lake living for a couple seeking their lakeside dream home. Situated along the west bank on a steep 1.2-acre wooded lot, the dwelling was originally built in the 1950s as a rustic, hexagon-shaped waterfront cabin. In the 1970s, the structure was renovated with a small addition. Captured by the site’s exquisite location and scenic beauty, the new homeowners didn’t hesitate to purchase the property. In 2014, they called on Austin architect James LaRue of LaRue Architects and interior designer Laura Britt of Britt Design Group to assess the initial design concept and thoughtfully integrate a new modern aesthetic that would also pay homage to the home’s architectural heritage.

Modern Makeover

Photo courtesy of Dror Baldinger, FAIA Architectural Photography

Intrigued by the original construction of the building, the design team knew immediately they wanted to remove the 1970s addition yet keep the hexagon shape that was formerly the main living area. “The challenge was to intergrade a modern home design concept into the hexagon geometry while ensuring the final architecture became a cohesive building,” says LaRue. The site also had dramatic topography—environmental constraints due to its waterfront location and several large trees required to remain—so the design team had to address the heavily treed, steep lot that slopes down 120 feet from the back of the house to the shoreline. “The site constraints drive the entire design of this home,” says the architect, “and the finished result responds in a very beautiful way to those constraints and to its heritage.” The team collaborated with Classic Constructors during the build. 

Dogtrot Design

Photo courtesy of Dror Baldinger, FAIA Architectural Photography

LaRue’s initial design concept was to convert the hexagon living space into the master bedroom suite with expansive lake views. “We then connected the hexagon building with a long, narrow form—or dogtrot—running parallel to the shoreline,” he explains. “This design concept allowed us to address the steep nature of the site, preserve the large pecan trees, and allow every space to have views of the lake,” he sums. The exterior materials include expansive glass windows and doors, metal panels, and limestone.

Eclectic Energy

Photo courtesy of Dror Baldinger, FAIA Architectural Photography

Dappled with natural sunlight, the new hexagon master suite boasts spectacular lakefront views. “A hand-woven wool rug and sumptuous bed linens bring an element of softness to balance the refined rusticity of antique wooden pieces,” says Britt, who worked closely with LaRue to ensure her interior design concepts would complement the home’s modern architectural style.

Gracious Guest Space

Photo courtesy of Dror Baldinger, FAIA Architectural Photography

The new four-bedroom house is constructed in a long single-story L-shape with the private spaces anchored by the re-configured original structure on one end and a semi-detached guest suite on the far end of the horizontal design.

The spacious 4,100-square-foot Hill Country contemporary residence is now the owners’ primary dwelling. “The couple live an active lifestyle and love to travel but consider this their home base,” Britt explains. “They enjoy their living room space frequently, and their welcoming guest house is almost always in use.”

Effortless Ease: Indoor/Outdoor Access

Photo courtesy of Dror Baldinger, FAIA Architectural Photography

The newly designed house now has a strong connection to the outdoors, with large expanses of glass throughout. “The public spaces are aligned along the center of the building with views of the lake and joined together by the open dogtrot-style outdoor living space, which overlooks a beautiful pool as well as Lake Austin,” says LaRue. “The outdoor space has a generous roof overhead with a warm wood-clad ceiling that protects it from the scorching Texas heat and intense thunderstorms,” he notes. In addition, this all-seasons area features a bug screen, lounge furniture, and a grand fireplace that allows for cozy gatherings during the winter months.

Panoramic Punch

Photo courtesy of Dror Baldinger, FAIA Architectural Photography

“This home is all about panoramic views to the lake and expansive sky,” says Britt, “so the color palette features a generous dose of soft blues and greens. The living room showcases an expansive wall of glass, and an art piece commissioned by Austin artist Andrea Pramuk is specifically detailed with saturated blues and sea green hues that are also echoed in the ‘Tree of Life’ rug that anchors the room,” she adds. The serene blue and green shades immediately connect you to the water and sky beyond, and peach accents in the rug and pillows complement the cool blues.

“This home is a study of restraint in design—the color palette and textiles are tranquil,” says the designer. “There is a little bit of texture, but it’s sleek. The steel, stone, and woods are smooth, almost glassy—and there’s a sense of movement and texture in the lighting. The textiles and hand-woven wool rug bring an inviting nubby touch to the living room.”

The furniture is intentionally elevated and not heavily upholstered to keep the space visually open and avoid obstructing the views. The settee has an open notched back to allow the light in as well as the lake view. In the adjacent dining room, a custom-built steel and wood table was crafted from reclaimed wood from the original site.

Elevated Style

Photo courtesy of Dror Baldinger, FAIA Architectural Photography

Custom cabinetry throughout the kitchen is designed to feel like beautifully detailed furniture pieces. “Elevating the cabinetry on wooden legs creates physical and visual space between the floor and cabinets,” says Britt. “A glass-front refrigerator adds to the sleek appeal of this unique kitchen, and a custom armoire stores coffee-making equipment.”

Grand Elegance

Photo courtesy of Dror Baldinger, FAIA Architectural Photography

Thoughtfully planned lighting plays an essential role throughout this home and provides a sculptural counterpoint to the minimalist modern architecture. Natural finishes and a subtle palette reflect the homeowners’ style and complement the tranquil scenery outside.

“The clients have a wonderful collection of art objects and furnishings they’ve collected from their travels around the world,” says Britt. “Weaving their personal story into the fabric of the overall design was a fun challenge. One important element to their story is their involvement in winemaking—they own a vineyard in Argentina, personally select the blends, and even custom-design the wine labels,” she adds. The entryway to their home features a Steinway grand piano and an impressive wine collection.

Decked-Out Dock

Photo courtesy of Dror Baldinger, FAIA Architectural Photography

Designed by LaRue, the boathouse overlooks Lake Austin, offering yet another prime spot for these homeowners and their family and friends to take in the surrounding scenery. Perched high above the shoreline, the rooftop deck provides an ideal outdoor lounging area perfect for boat and bird watching.

Interested in the Lake Austin area? Visit Lake Homes Realty for more details and enjoy the lake life!

Lake-Friendly Dog Breeds

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of @Florin via Twenty20

For families with dogs, a lake home is a perfect way to ensure that both you and your furry friends have plenty of outdoor space. From adventuring down dog-friendly hiking trails to playing fetch in the water with lake toys, these canines are a bundle of fun at the lake. Just like us, dogs enjoy being in nature. However, some breeds are more likely to thrive on your lakefront property than others. So if you’re a lake homeowner considering getting a dog, check out these five lake-friendly dog breeds to consider.

American Water Spaniel

Photo courtesy of Vet Street

With traits of a golden retriever and a spaniel, the American water spaniel is an excellent hunter in water. At the perfect height for canoes, they’re well-equipped to join you on lakeside adventures. These dogs were first bred in Wisconsin during the 19th century from other breeds such as the English and Irish water spaniels. Although they are a state dog in Wisconsin, the breed itself is rare because hunting became less popular around the 20th century.

Boykin Spaniel

Photo courtesy of Hill’s Pet

This medium-sized spaniel is fun-loving, sociable, and easy to train. Bred in the Wateree River Swamp in South Carolina, they’re excellent at hunting wild turkey and waterfowl. Many dog owners describe them as a “dog that doesn’t rock the boat,” emphasizing their good size for riding in canoes. Besides their hunting capabilities, Boykin spaniels are known for their love of water. In fact, they’ll probably want to swim in the lake longer than you!

Chesapeake Bay Retriever

Photo courtesy of Gear Junkie

This lake-friendly dog breed embodies all the positive traits of a retriever — loyal, upbeat, and full of love. But the Chesapeake Bay retriever also comes with a bonus love of water. Their waterproof fur, strength, and endurance make them a perfect lakeside companion. A gun dog bred to run through the cold waters of Chesapeake Bay, they’re born for the lake lifestyle. While they can be easy to train, they may take more effort than other breeds. These midsized retrievers are known to have minds of their own. Overall, this breed is great for active families who enjoy lots of time outdoors.

Spanish Water Dog

Photo courtesy of American Kennel Club

With a wooly, curly coat and a high-energy personality, what’s not to love about the Spanish water dog? Unlike the other lake-friendly dog breeds on this list, this pup is a herder rather than a hunter by nature. Put simply, they’ll herd anything that moves, whether it’s a flock of geese or a group of guests at your lake house. They are very active; they love playing outside with humans, and their quick intelligence makes them easy to train. One of the most notable traits of the Spanish water dog is their love for water — a rare quality for a herding dog. As expert swimmers, they’ll love playing all day at the lake.

Poodle

Photo courtesy of carah_ from Pixabay

The standard poodle is known for being a show dog. But that doesn’t mean that these seemingly pampered pups prefer cushy, indoor environments. In fact, poodles are very lake-friendly dog breeds. Originally bred to be water retrievers in Germany, their name comes from the German word “pudel,” meaning “to splash in the water.” The traditional poodle fashion look (shaven with puffs of hair around the feet) is actually functional for hunting. The shaved fur allows them to swim faster, while the tufts of hair around the ankles protect critical joints. Friendly and easy to train, the standard poodle is an excellent breed for lake living. 

We hope you and your pup enjoy the great outdoors this season!

All You Need to Know about Algae Blooms

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of Great Lakes Now

Have you ever come across a lake topped with a layer of bright green film? If so, you’ve witnessed a body of water filled with algae blooms. While there’s nothing wrong with the blooms themselves, they can become insidious when they get out of control. These are known as Harmful Algae Blooms (HAB). As a lake homeowner, it’s essential to know about this phenomenon. Today, we’re covering the basis of algae blooms.

What Causes Algae Blooms?

Photo courtesy of Surf Rider Foundation

HABs happen when freshwater or saltwater colonies of algae grow out of control. The excess of these blooms produces toxins that can be harmful to marine life and humans. But what exactly causes these algae blooms to grow at alarming exponential rates? Bryan McKenzie, co-founder of Bumper Crop Times with experience constructing artificial ponds, says that it’s usually caused by five conditions: nutrients, temperature, light, turbidity, and stable water conditions. 

In lake water, phosphorus and nitrogen are the primary nutrients that algae consume. Bryan elaborates, “These nutrients can get into the water if the surrounding lawns, agricultural areas, riverbanks, or river beds erode. In addition, natural lakes and artificial ponds or reservoirs can bloom with algae if there is phosphate on sediments.” This produces an over-feeding effect, where the existing algae get too many nutrients and continue growing. Other conditions that facilitate this growth are temperatures above 77 degrees, more light, low turbidity of the water, and stable water with low flows. Unfortunately, climate change has fostered more conditions for harmful algae bloom growth as well.

What’s Harmful About Algae Blooms?

Since algae blooms are simply a type of aquatic plant, it may be baffling to understand why they’re harmful. But not all algae blooms are harmful. While small amounts of algae are benign, they are only toxic when they grow in large quantities. Bryan describes, “Algae blocks the light from penetrating the water surface and depletes oxygen concentration, which is crucial for fish and plants.” In a lake filled with excess algae blooms, the layer of green algae creates a barrier between the sun and the fish and plants that need sunlight. As the algae take nutrients for themselves, they continue to grow while the rest of the ecosystem suffers. 

Additionally, the algae’s death is harmful to the lake. “When algae die, the decomposing microbes consume the rest of the oxygen,” Bryan explains. “This kills fish and plants and completely devastates the pond. That’s a disaster for any water body.” In short, this green scum at the top of the lake is detrimental to freshwater and saltwater environments alike.

How Can I Prevent Algae Blooms at the Lake?

Photo courtesy of Simple Lawn Solutions

While many conditions that cause excess algae blooms are outside human control, there are certain precautions that lake homeowners can take to avoid an abundance of algae. First, you can use only phosphorus-free fertilizers and detergents on your land to prevent runoff that will feed algae. You can also devote energy to landscaping. For example, remove grass clippings from the lawn, always pick up pet waste from your property, and try xeriscaping strategies to improve water filtration in the ground. When it comes to the water’s edge, don’t build concrete banks, but rather, allow natural vegetation to grow near the lake’s edges. Finally, Bryan advises homeowners to “hire a professional to monitor water quality and cure it proactively if something goes wrong.” 

At Lake Homes, we care deeply about the well-being of our lakes. We hope this information helps you understand the dangers of algae blooms and maintain an environment that doesn’t foster their growth.

The Basics of Barefoot Skiing

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of Discover Boating

As a lake homeowner, you’re probably familiar with water skiing. One of many “behind the boat” sports involves being towed behind a boat on a body of water, using a set of skis to propel forward. On any given day at the lake, especially July 4th, you’re bound to find water skiers everywhere enjoying the sun. But, while water skiing is undoubtedly an impressive sport, have you heard of barefoot skiing? 

Instead of relying on skis, barefoot skiers use their feet to skim the water’s surface. To learn more about this unique sport, we spoke with Zenon Bilas, a barefoot water skiing champion and coach who trains new and experienced barefoot skiers across the globe. He discovered his passion for barefoot skiing after seeing it done in a 1977 ski show. The rest is history. Read on to learn more about this adventurous lake activity.

Barefoot Skiing Popularity

Photo courtesy of The Laker

In the 1980s, barefoot skiing had its peak popularity. While it began as a fun acrobatic trick, the enthusiasm quickly caught on. “In the beginning, it was just an act in a ski show,” Zenon elaborates, “but Mike Seipel made it so that anybody could learn.” Throughout this decade, adventurous lake lovers sought coaching for this popular sport. But similar to skateboarding, its fame has ebbed and flowed with participation and popularity through the years. In response, Zenon focuses on bringing this sport to a broader audience and emphasizes the joys and benefits of barefoot skiing.

What’s Great About Barefoot Skiing

Photo courtesy of The Town-Crier

The barefoot skiing professionals make it look easy. But in reality, it’s a very exact and technical sport that requires a high level of focus. “It’s not a daredevil sport,” Zenon says. “I see it as a Bruce Lee type of mind/body sport. Once you master focus, discipline, teaching, and knowledge, then you can do whatever you want out there.” Because of this, one of the main benefits of barefoot skiing is the sense of focus that it provides you. “It’s the basis for how I am in my philosophy and my thinking,” Zenon says. Above and beyond the sport, the concentration that barefoot skiing requires can transfer to other areas of your life. Plus, it’s a great workout and an excellent way to spend time in the sun.

How Can I Learn?

Photo courtesy of St. Louis Boat & Sportshow

In Zenon’s view, people should be utilizing their boats to their potential by doing sports! If you decide to give barefoot skiing a shot, it’s best to get a coach. “Trial and error is not a good way of learning,” he advises. “Being coached from the beginning is the best way to do it. Having a patient person next to you in the water can make the biggest difference in your skill development and confidence.” In fact, Zenon attributes his own development as a skier to his brother’s friend, who coached him through his first foray into barefoot skiing. The second part of the equation is driving. “The better the driver, the better the success will be for the person behind the boat,” he says. “It’s a collaboration.”
If you’d like to learn more about Zenon Bilas, be sure to visit his website: ZenonBilas.com

Mosquito Mythbusting: 5 Facts and Myths about Mosquitoes

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of Lake & Wetland Management

One part of the summertime lake lifestyle that’ll never change — dealing with mosquitoes. As lake lovers, we’ve all experienced the repercussions of forgetting to apply bug spray and coming home with several bites. Whether you choose a classic DEET spray or a natural lotion (as long as it’s EPA approved), there’s all different kinds of insect repellent remedies that will keep you bite-free this summer. In addition to protecting your body from bites, it’s also helpful to equip yourself with knowledge about these pesky insects. There’s a lot of myths about mosquitoes, and we’re here to clear the air. After all, the more you know, the better you’ll be prepared for the throes of mosquito season. That’s why today on the Lake Homes blog, we’re mythbusting mosquitoes.

Myth: Mosquitoes Don’t Cause Illnesses in the U.S.

Photo courtesy of Dr. Melvin Sanicas

Fact: Although not every mosquito carries diseases, infected mosquitoes can spread viruses such as Zika virus, Chikungunya virus, West Nile Virus, and malaria to humans. Although many mosquito-borne viruses aren’t a concern in the U.S., the number of mosquito infections here are on the rise. According to the CDC, West Nile virus is one of the most common mosquito-borne illnesses in the U.S. With West Nile virus, it’s typical to have no symptoms, and mosquitoes carry this disease in all areas of the U.S. with the exception of Alaska and Hawaii.

Myth: Mosquitoes are Attracted to Sweet Blood

Photo courtesy of Northwest

You may have joked after a day of getting bitten that mosquitoes must love the taste of your blood. Despite myths that those with O positive blood get bitten more, this topic needs further research. More likely, it has nothing to do with your blood, but rather your body. Specifically, they are attracted to carbon dioxide that we produce when we breathe, lactic acid that our bodies secrete when we sweat, and our body heat. So, the reason that you get bitten more while doing outdoor activities such as hiking or water skiing is because when your body is active, you’re breathing more heavily, your body temperature increases, and you produce more lactic acid. This, in turn, attracts mosquitoes. As such, it’s very important to remember bug spray when you’ll be active.

Myth: Citronella Candles are Effective

Photo courtesy of Today.com

Many people who don’t like the smell of bug spray believe that if they use citronella candles, they’ll be able to repel mosquitoes just as well as DEET. However, this is incorrect. Although citronella is a common ingredient in most bug sprays due to its strong smell which deters mosquitoes from human scents, the candle alone isn’t potent enough. Citronella candles are best used in enclosed spaces such as patios where the candle scent is more powerful. Otherwise, it’s essentially useless in mosquito prevention.

Myth: Certain Foods Will Repel or Attract Mosquitoes

Photo courtesy of Craft Beer

You may have heard rumors that eating foods like garlic will help repel mosquitoes. However, this myth about mosquitoes is untrue. One retired entomologist, Joseph M. Conlon, told CNN, “nothing that you eat affects mosquitoes all that much.” However, the only exception to this rule is with alcohol. Research studies suggest that alcohol consumption increases your likelihood in being bitten by mosquitoes. This may be because alcohol consumption increases your body temperature, which in turn attracts mosquitoes.

Myth: All Mosquitoes Bite Humans

Photo courtesy of Pest Strategies

Contrary to this myth about mosquitoes, not all mosquitoes bite humans; only female mosquitoes bite. This is because they require the nutrients in the blood to produce eggs. So while the females are feeding on blood, male mosquitoes only eat plant matter. 

We hope you’ve learned something from this myth-busting session! From our lake house to yours, please remember to wear bug spray this summer.

Waterproofing Your Books at the Lake

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of @Inspired_by_the_Seasons via Twenty20

On a laid-back summer day, we can all enjoy reading a book on our front porch or boat dock. But depending on your proximity to water, it can be challenging to determine the best way to protect your book from water damage. As we book lovers know, a drive-by jet ski that makes a splash or a few kids playing with water toys on the boat dock can do some accidental damage to a paperback. At Lake Homes, we’re here to help you live your best lake life. And if you’re a big reader (especially one who can’t seem to switch to audiobooks), this means waterproofing your novels. So check out these simple ways to keep your books safe from the water this summer!

Floating Book Table

Photo courtesy of Boston Design Guide

You’ve heard of floating drink holders, so why can’t there be an inflatable to hold your books? This floating book or tablet caddy is perfect for the pool, hot tub, or lake. Its lightweight frame makes it easy to transport, while the book stand comes with straps that keep your book securely in place. Keep in mind that when using this in the lake, it’s best to use it in shallow waters where you can stand. The last thing you want is for your book to float away with the fish!

Book Bag

Photo courtesy of The Green Head

If you’re looking for ultimate waterproofing for your books, look no further than this inflatable book bag from You Bumi. It works by retaining air inside along with the book so that you can create a stress-free reading experience. As for turning the pages, it comes with two small thumb holes so you can continue flipping like normal. This product is especially great if you’re planning on reading in a particularly water-prone area such as on a boat or even on an inflatable.

Waterproof Book Sleeve

Photo courtesy of Etsy

Besides the fun watermelon pattern, this waterproof book sleeve effectively protects your latest summer read from the elements. Made from foam and soft fleece, this product will fit easily in a tote bag or large purse, perfect for carrying from the dock to the house and back. In addition, with this sleeve, you can know when you’ve put your book down that you’ll pick it up again — free from water stains.

Pick a Waterproof Read

Photo courtesy of HuffPost

In recent years, Kickstarter has made an effort to create a line of waterproof books made explicitly for beaches, lakes, and pools. From this group, only a certain number of books are available: short stories from Mark Twain, W.B. Yeates, The Art of War by Sun Zi, and Shakespeare’s Macbeth. In addition to their waterproof features, these books are also tear-resistant and easy to clean. What could be better for a lake and book lover?

DIY Book Cover

Photo courtesy of WikiHow

Looking for the perfect summer DIY project? Creating your own waterproof book cover is simple and effective for protecting your latest novel from lake water. For this project, you only need two things — clear plastic vinyl and a pair of scissors. From there, you can show off the original book jacket while also keeping it safe. 

When it comes to waterproofing your books, the key is creating a resistant barrier between your book and the water. These are only a few ideas of how to do that. Regardless of what works for you, we hope you enjoy a summer of good books at the lake!

Best Shoes for Waterfront Living (Summer Edition)

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of Family Vacation Critic

Summer is in full swing, and the weather on the lake is perfect for showing off that new pedicure. To follow up on last year’s post on the best waterfront shoes for Winter and Spring, we’re showing off the best shoes for summer when you live on the lake. So, whether you’re planning on braving the summer heat or simply enjoying the lake views from your home, there’s a perfect piece of footwear for you.

For Hiking

Photo courtesy of Very Well Fit

For this popular year-round activity, closed-toed shoes are a must. But during summertime, how do you avoid getting overheated in heavy footwear? Introducing the Merell Moab 2 Vent Mid Hiking Boot. Designed for both men and women, these boots are highly rated on Amazon. While they are not water-resistant, they are specifically designed for summer weather with foot ventilation to allow air to escape. Ultra-comfortable, you also won’t worry about getting blisters while you’re on the trail!

For the Water

Photo courtesy of Wave Runner

Summertime always means it’s warm enough to go swimming in the lake. But what if you just want to wade in the lake water without injuring your feet on rocks? Check out these fun, simple, and brightly colored aqua shoes! The wave runner quick-drying shoes are lightweight, no-slip footwear perfect for immersing yourself in the lake. Plus, they come in lots of vibrant shades like bright red and neon yellow.

For Home

Photo courtesy of The Warming Store

If there’s a season that’s prime time for relaxation, it’s summer. So, why not make every day at your lake house feel like a spa day? Once you experience these spa slippers, you’ll want to live in them all summer long. Made of soft, plush material with memory foam and arch support, these shoes are designed with maximum comfort in mind. The open-toed form allows your feet to breathe in warmer weather, so it’s time to toss those closed-toed wintertime house slippers to the side. This fuzzy and stylish footwear also comes in 16 different colors, so honestly, you could get one for every day of the week!

For Fashion

Photo courtesy of 107.5 Kool FM

Remember those jelly sandals that you used to wear as a kid? Well, they’re back in style now and just in time for summer. From pop singer Katy Perry’s brand, these cute jelly sandals come in a variety of bright colors, and each strap features a cute symbol of summer. So whether it’s watermelon red or lemon yellow, you’ll be showcasing your summertime enthusiasm at the lake. Even better — these 90’s-inspired sandals are also scented, so say goodbye to stinky feet. These shoes prove that colorful footwear with fruity designs is not just for toddlers. 

We hope these brands of fine footwear get you in the spirit of summer! Now get out there and enjoy the lake.

The Best Lake Toys for Dogs in 2021

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of iStock.com/TeamDAF via be chewy

Summer is finally here! It’s time to open the boat dock closet and dust off all your favorite lake toys for swimming. Whether it’s an inflatable dart board or a massive float in the shape of a flamingo, these toys add an extra fun element to the summer lake experience. But of course — let’s not leave the pets behind! Your animals are ready to enjoy the season just as much as you are. If you’re looking for the best lake toys for dogs at your lake house, check out these recommendations!

Aqua Pup Pool Float

Photo courtesy of Frontgate

Although pups are famous for enjoying lake water, why should they doggy paddle if they don’t have to? This bright orange, bone shaped float is perfect for any medium-sized dog. It’s built to resist odors and mildew — plus the vibrant color is great for lake safety.

Floating Squeaky Ball

Photo courtesy of Dog-Eared

If your dog loves playing fetch indoors, they’ll love playing in the lake too! That’s exactly what these floating squeaky toys are for. With any dog toy, you’ll want to make sure it’s hardy enough for their teeth. As such, most brands such as this one from Calling All Dogs make them to be durable to withstand dogs biting down on them.

Ruffwear Hover Craft

Photo courtesy of Bark Post

For the pup who enjoys chasing frisbees more than balls, this Ruffwear Hover Craft is for you. Essentially a floating frisbee, this toy is perfect for the open water, where you can throw it as far and wide as you’d like. Since it can be used on land or water, it’s also a versatile toy!

Amphibious Shark Fin Toy

Photo courtesy of Petmate.com

Oh no, there’s a shark in the water! Actually, it’s just the amphibious shark fin toy. This fun, floating toy from Chuck It always sits upright in the water, resembling a fish fin. The bright green and orange colors make it especially visible in water, so your dog can go “hunting” any time of day.

Flying Fish Floating Dog Toy

Photo courtesy of Amazon

Another one for the dogs trying to reel in the catch of the day! Made from non-toxic materials and recycled rubber, these fake fish are cleared for your pet’s safety on the lake or in a pool. They come in a pack of multiple, brightly colored fish — perfect for a full day of staying active at the lake!

SwimWays Spring Float

Photo courtesy of Amazon

This portable, durable float from Swimways is perfect for your pet to relax on the lake. Although it’s specifically designed for small dogs, it can hold up to 65 pounds. A major plus, the fabric is paw-and-claw friendly so it won’t get destroyed by your pup after just one day of summer fun.

Flying Squirrel Dog Toy

Photo courtesy of Chewy

Does your dog love chasing squirrels, and you’re always pulling them away? Then your pet will absolutely love this chewable flying squirrel. Since it floats, this lake toy can be used in the water or in your backyard. Complete with glow-in-the-dark corners, you can play fetch on cool summer evenings! 

We hope you and your pampered pooch enjoy the lake this summer!