Tag: lake life

Stargazing: A Beginners Guide

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

stargazing on the lakeWith stargazing you can discover an amazing range of objects in the night sky, from our Moon and planets, to far away galaxies.

A relaxing past time, stargazing can be enjoyed by oneself or with friends and family.

Getting started is easy; if you are able to follow a map, then you will be able to find your way around a night sky.

To begin, you will need a good sense of a star chart. The chart will offer information on where to find the brightest stars and where popular constellations are located at specific times and places.

You can download and print charts from SkyMaps.com or download an app for your smart phone.

Steps to Begin

  • Find a good location that is isolated from the street and any house lights. Stray lights will make it a bit harder for you to see the fainter stars. Also, for this reason, avoid nights that have a full moon or a moon that has too much of a haze. Many lakes are located far from big cities, which cuts down on light pollution.
  • Once you are outside, give your eyes five to 10 minutes to adjust to the dark. Use a red LED flashlight or even a white flashlight covered with a piece of red plastic. The red light will help preserve the sensitivity of your eyes, or “night vision” for viewing objects in the night.
  • Pick a direction in which to begin looking. Rotate your chart so that the direction is at the bottom. Raise the chart over your head. The directions on your chart will correspond to the directions of the sky.
  • Do not try to take on the whole sky at one time. Choose a quarter of your map, preferably one that has many bright starts or a large constellation like Ursa Major or Orion. Look up at that part of the sky that corresponds with the map. Make a connection with what you are seeing in the sky with what you see on your map.
  • Learn a few stars at a time. Once you have identified a few stars and the constellations, move on to the next few.
  • If you end up seeing an out-of-place star near the ecliptic, it is probably a plantet. Since planets move around the sky almost on a daily basis, you will nee to consult a website or a smartphone app to figure it out.

Perfect Magazine Subscriptions for Your Lake Home

Posted on Staff

If you have a lake home or a vacation home, then you will need some appropriate reading material. Magazines that are theme based offer great ideas, interesting articles, how-to articles, and so much more.

Here is a list of different magazines that will offer you amazing content perfect for your getaway:

couple reading a magazineSouthern Living Magazine

Southern Living is a magazine that concentrates on all aspects of the southern life. It includes recipes, places to visit, people, and so much more.

The subscription is very fairly priced and will offer you hours of reading material.

They have even done an article title “The Best Lakes Across the South,” so check it out!

Ideal Living

For those with thoughts of retirement on the horizon, look no further than Ideal Living. This lifestyle mag focuses solely on destinations tailored specifically for those looking to live an almost resort-like life after retiring.

They often feature many lakes throughout the United States, as well as mountain homes and beach locations.

National Geographic Travel Magazine

This magazine offers great information on different locations found all over the world from lakes to mountains. It offers interesting information on local and exotic locations.

Most people who love lake life also love nature and the great outdoors. National Geographic provides just that!

Cottage Journal Magazine

Cottage Journal Magazine is inspired by seasonal homes and gardens that offer fresh styles and beautiful photography. You can find great articles that will give you great ideas for your lake home. It offers designs and creative ways to offer great ways to relax in your home.

Cabin Life

Similar to the Cottage Journal, Cabin Life is another great read focused on cabin living, which often times goes hand to hand with lake living!

Go Local

If you would like to have more local information, many lakes have regional or even lake specific publications that you can subscribe to. It will offer information about your area, as well as surrounding areas, as well as current events. Some great examples include:

Though many of these can resemble newspapers more so than magazines, they are an excellent source of information to have sent directly to your home!

Portrait of Eli Kirkley

 

Eli Kirkley is Director of Communications at Lake Homes Realty

 

 

 

Lake Fun: How to Pack the Perfect Picnic

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

Picnic basketPicnics are great inexpensive ways to get out and enjoy nature, particularly at the lake, but there are preparations that must be made! From cleanup to non-perishable foods, there are some guidelines to help you along. Here are ways to ensure that your picnic will be perfect, no matter if it is for a family outing or for a romantic lunch for two.

Beverages and Foods

What is a picnic without foods and beverages? Here are tips to keep your picnic on point and to ensure its perfection.

Types of Foods

Picnic FoodIt is best to pack foods that do not have to be refrigerated. Foods that you can pack can include fruit, sandwiches, chips, and other items that do not require cold to be preserved.

However, if you are packing anything that includes dairy, ensure that you are packing it with ice.

Containers

Make sure that you are using re-sealable bags or containers with lids.  If you do not, then the food could spill inside the basket, which can cause an interruption in the picnic to clean up.

Containers with lids also provide an easy way to transport leftover food back home with you. There are also containers that you can use that will have a place for ice inside the same container in order to keep your foods fresh.

Drinks

Of course you will need to plan on having drinks for the picnic. It is best to bring a cooler stocked with bottled or canned drinks that do not require cups.

Adding in cups will require clean ice and cups. This will produce more waste and ultimately more items to carry. Bottled water, soda, or juice is best when planning the perfect picnic.

Condiments

There are foods that call for condiments. To help make your haul weigh less, you can pack mini bottles of mustard and ketchup, or use mini packets like you see at fast food restaurants. This will ensure that you are not lugging big bottles. Using packets will make clean up much less work as well.

Another idea is to take everyone’s order before you make the meal and apply the condiments to the sandwiches for each person as it is made.

Picnic Tableware

Eating on the grass or an old picnic table can take away from the perfection of your picnic. Here are ways to ensure a peaceful and clean environment to eat outside and enjoy your company.

Utensils

Although you will be using paper plates and cups, it is best to you reusable utensils. To keep clean up easy and fast, bring a freezer bag to place dirty utensils in after the picnic is over.

Napkins

Napkins are a must for personal clean up and messes. Make sure to pack enough per person and a handful for other uses.

Cleanup

Cleanup items are very important. You cannot just leave things behind. Here is a list of items you will need for your picnic.

  • Trash Bag
  • Moist Towlettes
  • Napkins
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Paper Towels

In order to have a perfect picnic, you will have to plan it out. Make sure that you have adequate amounts of food and other items. Make sure that you use a tote that will not fall apart and leave your picnic in the grass. Pack a blanket or a tablecloth and enjoy the day out at the lake!

Keep Your Family Safe, Comfortable, and Active At The Lake

Posted on John Sims

It’s the time of year when outdoor activities ramp up and those enjoying the lake lifestyle lead the way in heading outside.  Taking care of the basics will ensure your family is prepared for all the fun that waits while avoiding some very common, and preventable, family fun killers.

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Drink Water.  Depending on whom you ask, water constitutes 65% to 75% of your child’s body while an adult body contains approximately 65% water…not soda, Kool-Aid or sports drinks. Dehydration can cause headaches, fatigue, crankiness, and can even affect concentration.

If you feel thirsty, you’re probably already starting to dehydrate. So make sure you drink water regularly.  The recommended daily amount of water varies by age from 5 glasses for your five year old to 10 for pre-teens and up.

Food is Awesome

Don’t forget the snacks. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics Handbook, Children should eat three main meals per day and, depending on age, eat 1 to 2 in between meals or healthy snacks.

Two are recommended for younger children while older children may require only a mid afternoon snack. The immediate effect of going too long between meals is a drop in blood sugar levels causing irritability, lack of energy, even confusion.

None of these effects go well with family fun at the lake so enjoy a good meal before heading out and keep those healthy snacks handy.

Prepare for the Power of the Sun

Nothing interferes with family fun like the negative effects of too much sun. Whether it’s the inability to participate in outdoor fun or a child (and parent’s) inability to sleep with sunburn, the sun can be a showstopper.

Use sunscreen with a minimum Sun Protection Factor of 30 (SPF 30) to block both UVA and UVB rays. The higher the SPF number, the better the protection. UVA causes premature aging and suppression of the immune system, increasing the risk of skin cancer.

UVB rays cause sunburn. The intensity of UVB rays varies according to your location, the season, and time of day. 10am to 4pm are peak hours for both UVB rays and family fun so keep the sunscreen handy and apply often.

Clothing is an often-overlooked way of protecting your family from the sun’s harmful rays. All clothing provides some measure of UV protection.

However, clothing with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) is specifically designed to protect you and your loved ones.

Depending on your skin type, clothing with a UPF rating of 15 (Good) to 50+ (Excellent) may be required. Those with the most need for UPF rated clothing are children, people with fair skin, and anyone spending an extended period of time on reflective surfaces such as water.

Despite our best efforts, emergencies sometimes happen. Being prepared is key no matter how mild or serious the situation. Immediate access to emergency contact information is a stress reducer and lifesaver.

Prepare Your Smart Phone

Whether you’re a resident, frequent visitor, or enjoying the lake for the first time, programming local emergency numbers and medical providers in your phone saves time when you don’t have time to waste. Protecting your smart phone and all it’s information from water damage will ensure you have the information if needed.

Anything from a water protective case to a well-sealed storage bag will do. Your phone doesn’t float so consider throwing an empty water bottle in the storage bag or attach a float to the case for buoyancy.

If pets are along for the fun, don’t forget to include a local vet in your contacts list.

Keeping your family safe and healthy will ensure your time together is fun for all. It only takes a little thought and preparation to ensure everyone is energized and equipped to go out and make those great family memories that last a lifetime. That’s what the lake lifestyle is all about.

10 Energy Saving Tips for the Hot Summer Months

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

10 Energy Saving Tips for the Hot Summer MonthsSummer is an amazing time of year with boating, hiking, camping, and other amazing outdoor activities all in full swing. But face it; summer can be quite expensive due to the air conditioner.

Here are 10 energy saving tips to keep your power bill from breaking the bank this summer.

Replace the Unit

If you are living in a home that is 20 years or older, then you may need to consider replacing your air conditioning unit. Look for units that will cost less to run and will have energy approved standards stamped on them. This will make a large difference in the energy bill.

Alternate Methods for Meals

Turning on the oven or the stove can cause a battle between the air conditioner and the heat from the stove or oven. Consider grilling outside and enjoying your lake views, or using a microwave during these hot months. This will help keep your unit from running non-stop.

Automate the Thermostat

If you still use a manual thermostat, consider replacing it with an automatic one that you can program to keep the home warmer when you are not home. You can also program it to be cooler when the family is home.

Keep the Sun Out

Cover your windows to keep the sun from coming in and warming up the air. Use white or light colored curtains or blinds in order to reflect the heat instead of absorbing it.

Give the Unit a Break

Using a ceiling fan to move the air around inside the home instead of using the air conditioner will give it a break and save you money on your energy bill.

Cooler Showers

Instead of increasing the temperature of the home from a hot shower, take a cold one to cool yourself down. You will lower your body temperature, lower energy use from the hot water heater, as well as avoid steaming up the house.

Service the Unit Regularly

Ensure that the filter is changed on a regular bases. If the unit or the filter is dirty, the air conditioner will work harder to cool your home. This means that it will use more energy.

Check Your Ductwork

Ensure that the AC ductwork is sealed properly. Your duct runs throughout the home and if there is leak, you may be cooling places that do not need, like the attic.

Play Outside

Spend more time outside. Go jump in the lake or have a picnic.

If you spend less time in the home that means you can raise the temperature since no one is indoors. This ultimately means less energy being used.

Shut Parts Out

Have a spare bedroom or office that is rarely used? When this happens, shut off the vents or cut off those rooms with a drape. Close the vents in order to direct the cool air to the areas that are lived in.

These are just a few of the ways you can save on cooling costs this summer at the lake!

 

 

Forget the Fancy Bass Boats, Get a Pontoon Boat!

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

You will never find a better boat to relax on. If you combine the floor plan and the amazingly luxurious seating, it is almost like having a living room on the water. A pontoon that measures 25 feet is able to carry 15 people, and at times even more very comfortably.

Pontoon Boat
Pontoon Boat

The same size of other boats of different styles does not include the same amount of space for the passengers. You would have to squeeze by each other when trying to move. It is more like riding in a car. With pontoon boats, you have floor space to walk, barbeque, and host parties.

If you are out for some sun, you can leave the top off, or if you are one that does not like to be in direct sunlight, leave the top on. The boat is extremely versatile when having fun out on the lake.

There are numerous models that include great features like a galley, live well, recliners, coolers, and a table to eat at or play cards on. They also include a ladder from the water to the floor. This way you can dive into the water and climb back up when it is time to rest.

Newer models also include stereo systems that offer external audio jacks, which allow the hook up of an mp3 player or iPod. Some even have USB ports.

There is a lot of space that will enable you to store water toys and other personal items. You can even purchase a camping enclosure to allow you to spend the night out on the water. There is even models that offer portable toilet with a privacy wall. Here are events that you can host on a pontoon boat:

With a pontoon boat, the options are endless. Imagine being able to spend an entire day that wraps up swimming, picnics, barbeque, music, and more all in one outing. The fun is overwhelming and the memories will last a lifetime.

Measurements Versus Passengers

If you are unsure of what size pontoon boat you will need, here is a guide to help you. Remember to include the typical people you take on your outings, for example; your kids. Then make sure there is extra room for other family members or friends.

  • 2-6 People: 18-20 Feet
  • 6-10 People: 22-24 Feet
  • 10 or more People: 24 Feet or Larger

Activities

Here is a list of activities you can plan for you outings. They will depend on what type of outing or event you will be hosting and how many people will be passengers on the boat.

  • Swimming
  • Fishing
  • Cards
  • Barbeques
  • Cocktails
  • Skiing
  • Tubing
  • Camping

No matter how many people you have with you, you will be sure to have fun. Ensure that you purchase a pontoon boat that will accommodate your entire family, plus a few more to make sure you can hold small get-togethers whenever you like.

 

7 Reasons People Love Lake Living

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

There are two kinds of people: one that wants to live on a lake and the second is those who do. If you are wondering why lake living is so wonderful, then keep on reading. By the end of this list, you’ll wish your home was located next to a lake too.

1. Lake Fun

Lake Fun: Swimming

You will never run out of things to do! Lake living has its perks, and water activities are definitely on the top of the list. The lake will provide you with an avenue to have fun or to entertain the best events throughout the year. Here are just some of the activities you can do when owning a lake property:

  • Swimming
  • Kayaking
  • Sailing
  • Fishing
  • Boating

2. Relaxation

Woman relaxing on boat enjoying the view

There are studies that support the claim that water provides relaxation. Of course, it is quite obvious that it does. Remember those days when you visited the lake, all those comforting feelings and how you felt so happy?

The lake can provide this on a daily basis when you actually live on the lake. After a long day’s work, coming home to see the peaceful and serene visuals the lake offers instantly relaxes the homeowner. Imagine sitting on the patio and just soaking in the sun peering at peacefulness.

3. Privacy

Homes that are located on lots by the lake are typically more isolated from the public. If you are further from or have greenery blocking your neighbors; this means that you have more privacy.

You also have matured trees and nature surrounding your home that acts as a natural privacy “fence” that offers shielding from roads, neighbors, and people passing by.

4. Traffic

Autumnal road with colorful trees

Traffic can be annoying, especially when you live on a busy road or near a highway.

The traffic noises are intrusive and if you have animals or children, it can be quite dangerous. Say goodbye to all those semi-trucks, construction vehicles, and public buses.

5. Wildlife

Duck with baby ducklings following

All life needs water to sustain themselves. You live on a lake, so all of those beautiful and majestic animals share in your home.

You will see geese, ducks, deer, and so many other creatures of the wild.

6. Entertaining

Fourth of July at the lake party

You can host cookouts, birthday parties, annual summer parties, and so much more at your lake house.

You can even throw a bonfire party when the seasons begin to change that involves an overnight get-together where your guests can swim, fish, and roast marshmallows.

7. Community

Community of lake homeowners paddleboarding together

In this area, people tend to build very strong bonds with each other. You have a common bond: the love for the outdoors. It is extremely easy to get to know your neighbors when you spend time on your dock. You will pass by each other on your boats or go paddleboarding together. It is not like a typical neighborhood where you will just wave to each other whenever you get your mail.

Living on the lake is an amazing lifestyle. It is not just a home location. You will love your community and everything a lake has to offer. Choosing to live on a lake is a choice that is easy to make, and there are lakes to fit every desired lifestyle. If you think living on a lake may be the right choice for you, take a look at our homes for sale across the nation.

Lake Living: Simple Picnic Recipes

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

Picnics are wonderful when planned well; the selection of the food that you want to take will set the mood for the trip. Here are some ideas that will help you enjoy your outdoor meals. Try out these picnic recipes at the lake as the warm weather approaches!

At the Lake

PicnicThere is nothing better than a warm and sunny day at the lake with your friends and family. Your selection for food should be something that stays cool all day. You can have hot meals too, but it’s better to have some cold sandwiches just in case.

Let’s help you select the perfect lakeside meal.

The easiest way to plan a picnic is to utilize both sides and main dishes that are best served cold so that everything can be stored in a cooler. For side dishes and snacks, you may want to consider the following:

  • Watermelon (thin slices)
  • Sliced cucumbers or tomatoes
  • Oranges and Apples
  • A gallon of your favorite beverage

For the cold entree:

Spicy Cold Chicken Sandwich

Serves 4

Ingredients

Dice a 2 pounds of chicken and add two teaspoons of pepper and one tablespoon of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, a generous amount of olive oil and mix together. Have bread, cheese, and mayo available to make 10 sandwiches.

Directions

  • Heat your oven to 400° F.
  • Put chicken in the oven and roast it for 45 minutes
  • Let the chicken cool
  • Pre-make sandwiches for the picnic

Finger Food Plate

Picnic foodIf you are more inclined to create a collection of snack foods for your picnic, you may want to try the following:

  • Oven Roasted Corn – Bake in the husk at 400 for 30 minutes. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Great, even when chilled.
  • Create a spread of cheeses and match with crackers
  • Apples, pears, grapes, strawberries, blueberries and Kiwis
  • Lots of chocolates

Be Creative

Just about any meal you can imagine can be made into the perfect picnic, just prepare it in a way that can be kept cool for a few hours. With spring just around the corner, use these picnic recipes as jumping points for great meals on the go!

How to Grow an Herb Garden in Your Kitchen

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

Herb gardenThere are many reasons why people chose to grow kitchen herb garden. They produce organic and healthy harvests and are cheap as well. They are easy to grow and all they need is sunlight and warmth. In case your kitchen lacks direct sunlight, you might place your herb in other rooms as well. Now, we’re going to give you a brief explanation on how to start your own kitchen herb garden.

The first step of growing kitchen herbs is deciding what plants we want to grow. The answer is simple; start with whatever you prefer to eat. Search on internet to find out what seeds or seedlings produce your favorite dish, and buy them at your local gardener.

The second step is to choose whether you need seeds or seedlings. You can buy seed packets, or buy herb seedling from local shops. If your choice is seedlings, make sure that the plant is not rootbound by checking the plant’s bottom.

Third step is to choose the seeds/seedlings that you want to buy. The most used seeds are Basil, Chives, Cilantro, Mint, Oregano, Parsley, etc. Ask your local gardener or look up online which one would be a better choice to produce the harvests you desire.

What you’ll need:

Soil: Mix soil, moss, and perlite to produce a high quality soil for your herb garden. You can also buy this mixed soil in most garden stores for a reasonable price.

Herb containerContainers: You will need lots of containers to put your herbs in. Look in your house if you have some unused containers. If not, check the garden stores, they will definitely have them. When you find them, create drainage holes in its sides before planting seeds/seedling.

Sunlight: The most important factor in growing herb garden is providing enough sunlight for them to be able to grow. They must be exposed to sun between four to six hours every day. Less light will most likely prevent growth.

Now that you have everything that you need, let’s get started.

  • Place seeds in water for about two to four hours before planting them in soil. This will fill them with water they will struggle to find when they initially get planted.
  • Fill all containers with soil up to one inch below the rim. Plant seeds approximately one fourth of inch below the top of the soil. Putting them lower will most likely prevent them from ever reaching the surface whereas putting them higher will most likely decrease the amount of nutrients they can take.
  • Place the container in a place out of direct sun light until it starts to grow and water it often. Note however, that different plants require different amounts of water per day.
  • When you see the herb growing out, move the container to an area with sunlight exposure between four to six hours a day. Continue to water them accordingly.
  • Large numbers of seeds growing in one container is not a good thing; it is actually dangerous for them. They will all feed from the same soil and will most likely lack nutrition. Thus, if several seeds grow, remove a few of them to allow the other seeds to grow. Be careful while you are removing the seeds, you might accidentally damage other seeds as well.
  • If planting seedlings, bury the roots in the soil and put it immediately in the sunny area.
  • When herbs are grown, harvest them. Leave the sprigs of every herb so they will grow back again so you will have herbs in the future as well.

By following these steps, you will create a kitchen herb garden and start growing your own healthy food.