Tag: lake living

2021 Interior Design Trends for Your Lake Home

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of Martha O’Hara Interiors.

Since the start of the pandemic in March, we’ve been forced to spend more time indoors. As a result of lockdowns and distancing, the importance of personal space has become crucial. Now, more people are investing in lake houses, hoping for much-needed outdoor space and a remedy for that familiar “cooped up” feeling.

Due to spending ample time at home, many of us are paying more attention to interior design. After all, if you’re going to spend all day working from home, you might as well enjoy the decor! If you’re looking to re-evaluate your lake home’s feng shui, we’ve got some tips for you.

We spoke with interior designer Karen Parziale, the lead designer of The Real Estate Staging Studio in New York, to learn more. Recently, she’s been redesigning her family’s home on Lake Paradise, and she has advice on the latest interior design trends for lake lovers. 

Biophilic Design

Photo courtesy of Hirouyki Oki via Arch Daily.

A combination of the root words “bio” (life) and “philic” (love of), this concept of biophilic design refers to embracing nature in your interior decor. This concept does not just refer to pictures or representations of nature, but rather incorporating actual pieces from the outdoors inside of your home.

Although the biophilic design trend has been popular since the ’70s and is especially trending this year, it dates back to ancient times. The hanging gardens of Babylon are perhaps the first depiction of biophilic design in action.

In your lake home, one manifestation of biophilic design might be adding live plants inside your home. And not just potted desk plants. Karen says that it’s trending for plants to be the “big focal point of the room.” She adds, “from a feng shui perspective, the lake has water and earth energy already. Incorporating natural elements like plants, distressed wood, and twigs into your home design helps with balance. You want to have a mix of everything.” 

Green Design

Photography by Michael Moran via InteriorDesign.net.

It’s always great when interior design trends align with sustainability. Green design has been trending for many years, but it’s becoming prevalent now and will continue in 2021. Like biophilic design, green design is about connecting with nature. However, while biophilic design is more about the connection itself, green design focuses on environmental well-being more broadly. “It’s all about a healthier home,” Karen explains. “This trend involves being intentional about using eco-friendly materials in construction.”

This popular notion of ‘going green’ applies to both interior decorating and landscaping designs. It’s becoming trendy to opt for ground covers over grass to conserve water and choosing furniture that uses recycled materials. In other words, what’s in style is also good for the environment — win-win! 

Sense of Warmth

Photo courtesy of Homebunch.com.

Lake houses are not meant to be cold, detached environments. They’re a place of connection with friends and family. In the world of interior design trends, it’s becoming popular to reflect this sense of warmth into the design intentionally.

Karen specifies that a home’s warm feel should not be conveyed through a country aesthetic. “The plaid patterns and ‘deer-on-the-wall’ look is over,” she says. “Instead, incorporate congruous, earthy tones in a sophisticated way. You also want it to be warm without being modern and glitzy.” In keeping with a sense of warmth, open-concept spaces are trending. The idea of removing walls and borders and installing big, expansive windows evokes a laid-back, welcoming feel consistent with the lake lifestyle. 

Overall, the biggest interior design trends for 2021 are all about the incorporation of nature and sustainability. In keeping with this idea, it’s no coincidence that Pantone’s color trend report for Spring 2021 names “a range of shades inspired by the beauty of nature” as colors to watch out for next year.

The theme of nature is also timely, given what we’re all craving during the pandemic. “With COVID, people are realizing they’re tired of living in little spaces,” Karen comments. “They want to be outside more and have outdoor space.” She explains that her business has become busier recently, as she’s designing these outdoor spaces and helping people connect with nature.

Whether it’s through using recycled wood, creating an open concept living room, or replacing plaid patterns with warm tones, we hope you can incorporate these trends into your decor. After all, this connection with nature is what lake living is all about. 

The Ultimate Gift Guide for Lake Dwellers

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of hipandhumblestyle via Instagram.

With the holiday season fast approaching, you’re probably thinking about gifts for your friends and family. And if you’re visiting our website, there’s a good chance you live on the lake or know someone who does. These odds are significantly higher during the pandemic when those with vacation homes on the lake live there full time. To help you decide on a gift for your lake-loving friends (or help you create a wish list if you live on the lake), we’ve created this ultimate gift guide. Check out our top 10 picks of gifts that lake dwellers will love!

A High-Quality Thermos

Photo courtesy of Popular Mechanics.

Although the lake lifestyle is typically relaxed, those with lake homes are often on-the-go. Excursions like boating, hiking, and fishing, can easily draw us off our property for an entire afternoon. To fit with this active life, any lake lover will appreciate a high-quality thermos like this Mountain Vacuum Coffee System. Nothing’s better than enjoying a cozy beverage while enjoying fun activities on the lake.

A Durable Cheese Board

Because a lake house is a second home, its kitchen is not always as well-stocked as a primary residence. As such, useful kitchen items could be part of this ultimate gift guide. In particular, a cheese board is perfect for hosting a holiday event like Thanksgiving or simply enjoying an afternoon treat for yourself. 

A Personalized Towel Set

Personalized Towel Set by CanaryRoadHome via Etsy.

Most often, lake homeowners invest in quality towels for their primary residence and skimp on their lake house’s towels. Help them spruce up their kitchen or bath with this ultimate gift. Whether for the bath or kitchen, a personalized towel will make everyone feel right at home at the lake.

Nature-Scented Candles

Photo courtesy of Cool Material.

Bringing the outdoors in is a popular trend in lake house designs. One way to accomplish this is through smell. Even when bad weather forces you inside, it’s great to be immersed in the scents of the outdoors. Candles also add an element of hygge to a lake house, evoking a sense of coziness for residents and guests. 

A Pair of Binoculars

Photo courtesy of National Park Service.

According to the U.S. Fishing and Wildlife Service, over 45 million Americans engage in bird watching as a hobby. Many of these aviation enthusiasts are also lake homeowners. These bird-loving friends will appreciate a high-quality set of binoculars to view and identify different bird species up close. 

A Watercolor Set

Photo courtesy of Jerry’s Artarama.

During the pandemic, many people are taking up new hobbies like painting and drawing. If you know a lake-lover with artistic potential, a watercolor set is an ultimate gift. Especially for new painters, watercolor is perfect for easing into the craft. Plus, who wouldn’t want to paint a gorgeous lake scene outside their back door? 

A Magazine Subscription

Photo courtesy of Lakelifemagazine.com.

If your lake-dwelling friends aren’t already receiving relevant magazines like Lake Living, consider getting them a subscription. This way, they can stay up-to-date with the latest trends, advice, and articles about the lake lifestyle. Check out these top subscriptions. 

Polarized Sunglasses

Photo courtesy of smartbuyglasses.com.

If your friends enjoy fishing or boating, they’ll jump for joy when unwrapping a nice pair of polarized sunglasses. Often, these manufacturers design polarized lenses for outdoor sports. Brands like Rheos and Unsinkable Polarized are created to float in the water. What could be more tailored to lake living? 

A Comfortable Beanie

Photo courtesy of Tentree.com.

Especially during the winter, your lake-dwelling friends will appreciate this ultimate gift — a comfortable hat. In particular, a beanie is multipurpose. You can dress it up when seeing friends, pair it with hiking gear for outdoor activities, or wear it with pajamas on your front porch. For inspiration, check out some of the top beanies for 2020.

An All-Inclusive Picnic Basket

Photo courtesy of Foodal.com.

As lake lovers, we enjoy having a meal outdoors, whether it’s a park, backyard, or hiking trail. Consider giving them an all-inclusive picnic basket to bring a little luxury to your friend’s next picnic. It doesn’t have to be from Williams-Sonoma, although they have an excellent option. There are plenty of picnic basket sets from which to choose! 

A Cocktail Shaker Set

Photo courtesy of Westelm.com.

At the end of a long day exploring the great outdoors, we love to wind down with a homemade beverage. If your lake-dwelling friends enjoy a whiskey sour or gin and tonic as their drink of choice, they’ll appreciate a cocktail shaker set. Who says you can’t be your own bartender at the lake?

Sky Phenomenon to View from Your Lake House

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of Popular Science.

There’s something magical about the night sky. Valerie Stimeck, the author of the book Dark Skies, refers to the stars as “one of the few unifying features of human history.” 

Unfortunately, modern skies, shrouded in city lights, don’t allow for proper stargazing. It’s reported that 90% of the United States population lives with significant light pollution. Given the pervasiveness of artificial lights, you’re probably missing out on more stars than you realize. 

If your lake house is in a rural area, you might be part of the lucky 10%. On the next clear night, venture to your boat dock and see if you can spot these five sky phenomena from your lake house. 

Constellations

Photo courtesy of Hubpages.com.

Constellations are perhaps the most famous sky phenomenon — and they have been for a long time. Of the 88 constellations recognized by astronomers today, 48 of them date back to the Ancient Greek and Babylonian times. Each night since the dawn of time, these patterns of stars have returned to their places, and their predictability is part of why stargazers love them. 

The prominence of constellations differs based on seasonality. During the summer, the Big Dipper is easiest to spot in the Northern Hemisphere. As fall approaches, be on the lookout for Pegasus and Andromeda. Need help finding constellations in the night sky? An app can help with that. With Sky Guide, point your phone to the sky above, and it will outline constellations for you.

Planets

Photo courtesy of Sky & Telescope.

Constellations are perhaps the most famous sky phenomenon — and they have been for a long time. Of the 88 constellations recognized by astronomers today, 48 of them date back to the Ancient Greek and Babylonian times. Each night since the dawn of time, these patterns of stars have returned to their places, and their predictability is part of why stargazers love them. 

However, their prominence differs based on seasonality. During the summer, the Big Dipper is easiest to spot in the Northern Hemisphere. As fall approaches, be on the lookout for Pegasus and Andromeda. Need help finding constellations in the night sky? An app can help with that. With Sky Guide, simply point your phone to the sky above, and it will outline constellations for you.

Milky Way

Photo courtesy of Dan’s Camera.

At one point in time, the Milky Way was always visible on every moonless night. However, due to light pollution, its appearance isn’t as consistent. It’s brightest in the southern hemisphere of the modern sky, but you can still view this sky phenomenon from your lake house. You’ll see dust lanes, nebulas, and star clusters within the constellation Sagittarius, making up the brightest part of the galaxy. Between June and August, our galaxy appears most brilliant, while December through February is when it’s invisible and too close to the sun. Right now, it’s a perfect time of year to look for the Milky Way on a clear night!

Comets

Photo courtesy of @alisonleedham via Twenty20.

According to NASA, comets are “cosmic snowballs of frozen gasses.” As they travel close to the sun, they spew gas and dust, forming a tail that stretches millions of miles. On rare occasions, you may be lucky enough to spot a comet at your lake house. Typically, they appear just around sunrise or sunset. 

Although comets are rare to witness, some reliably appear in the night sky. You may have recently heard of Comet Neowise, which came closest to the Earth in late July 2020. Famously, Halley’s Comet reappears every 75 years, so it’s possible to see it twice in one average lifetime. Mark Twain was born in a year when Halley’s Comet was visible, and he died the year it was visible again. Other well-known comets include Comet Hale-Bopp and Comet Encke. Regardless of which comet you’ve set out to see, owning a lake home in a less light-polluted area increases your chances of witnessing this sky phenomenon.

Northern Lights

Photo courtesy of SUOMI PHOTOGRAPHY via Pexels

This one is for lake homeowners in the northern U.S. You likely won’t see the Northern Lights directly from your patio, but many of our markets with listings are close to parks where this sky phenomenon is visible. For instance, stargazers have witnessed the aurora borealis in the Panhandle National Forest in Idaho, Acadia National Park in Maine, and Headlands International Dark Sky Park in Michigan. If you’re lucky enough to witness this beautiful sky phenomenon, in which earth’s gases collide with sun particles, your photos won’t do justice to its magnificence.

If you can’t see every sky phenomenon at your lake house, no need to worry. There are plenty of ways to tackle light pollution at your own home to increase visibility. So grab a pair of binoculars and start stargazing! 

Low Outdoor Seating: Ideas for Fire Pits

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of Luxury Home Magazine Charlotte via Instagram.

Have you heard the phrase “form follows function?” This famous architectural philosophy, coined by skyscraper inventor Louis Henry Sullivan, means that a building or object’s shape reflects its intended purpose. 

This principle certainly applies to outdoor furniture; an outdoor chair’s height depends on its designated function. For instance, high counter stools are for entertaining because hosts can chat with their seated guests at eye level. By contrast, lounge chairs’ low height and reclining backs facilitate ultimate relaxation.

However, seating for fire pits is unique. Lower than a dining chair but higher than a lounge, this low outdoor seating should cater to casual conversation among guests.

For lake homeowners with fire pits, there’s a myriad of types of chairs to pick! From benches to Adirondacks, these differing forms all reflect the same function — enjoying a fireside chat with your friends and family. 

Adirondack Chairs

Photo courtesy of Polywood.

Named for the mountainous region in New York, Adirondack chairs are simply a classic. The classic wooden frames and reclining backs are designed for relaxation. Further, their low height makes them perfect for fire pit seating.

One brand specializing in Adirondack chairs is Polywood, a leading manufacturer in sustainable furniture. Their goal is to incorporate 1 million pounds of ocean-bound plastic into furniture by 2021. If you’re seeking a timeless, simple look, an Adirondack chair is unbeatable.

Sectional Sofas

Photo courtesy of Brown Jordan.

For square and rectangular fire pits, sectional sofas are an ideal low outdoor seating choice. As an angular piece of furniture, their form naturally matches a fire pit’s edges. This form matching creates a seamless, congruous design.

The good news is that it’s possible to find sectional sofas at any price point. For the best of the best, look to Brown Jordan, a renowned luxury outdoor furniture provider. Their selection of outdoor sectional sofas is built to last. 

Swings

Photo courtesy of Little White House Blog/Remodelaholic via Country Living Magazine.

Who says that swings are reserved for front porches? Low-hanging outdoor swings add a laid-back flare to any fire pit. If you’re good with woodworking, you can create a DIY hexagonal swing set for your backyard.

If woodworking is not your thing, there’s plenty of other swing options. These wicker egg chairs from Belham are great for social distancing, as they only accommodate one guest per swing. On a cool fall evening, it’ll be easy to drift to sleep with the rocking motion of these swings. 

Euro Chairs

Photo courtesy of Summer Classics.

For outdoor fire pits, picking the right chair height is ideal. Dining chairs are too high, but lounge chairs are too low. Enter the euro chair — a “chat height” designed for having casual conversations and roasting smores around the fire.

While many brands carry euro chairs as a low outdoor seating option, Summer Classics has a particularly strong collection. This luxury brand of outdoor furniture specializes in durable, high-quality pieces built to last. Add a few plush cushions for maximum comfort. 

Benches

Photo courtesy of Hayneedle.

If you don’t mind backless furniture, curved benches are a great option for low outdoor seating around a fire pit. Multiple benches create a design where each guest can have their own space, and the flat planed seat doubles as a drink holder.

Bench style seating has become a popular trend in recent years. They’re effortlessly stylish, they blend well with nature, and they’re easy to build. If you’d rather not build your own, Wayfair has plenty of options in multiple price ranges. 

Regardless of the specific kind of low outdoor seating furniture, your guests will love gathering around the outdoor fire pit at your lake home. For more backyard landscaping ideas, check out our blog at Lakehomes.com! 

Tellico Village: A Retirement Paradise in Tennessee

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Lakeside Realty via Tellico Village – VisitLoudonCounty.com.

If you’re looking to retire on the lake, there’s likely a thousand questions running through your mind. Is this lake close enough to a hospital? Is the community close-knit? On many lakes, you may have to compromise one value for another. However, Tellico Village, a 5,000-acre resort for seniors on Tellico Lake, might have it all. 

With several high-quality amenities, including its status as a top waterfront and golfing community in the southeast, it’s a fantastic place to live. The thriving community with three recreation centers, peaceful landscape, and proximity to Knoxville make it especially ideal for retirees. To learn more about what makes Tellico Village special, we talked with Lake Homes Realty agent Karen Packett and retirees currently living in the neighborhood. According to these lake residents, here’s what makes Tellico Village a retirement paradise. 

Relaxing Environment

Smoky Mountains – TellicoVillage.org.

Situated at the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, Tellico Village is surrounded by stunning views. The adjacent forests are largely uninterrupted, leaving tranquil hiking paths for residents. Dave Morse, Tellico Village resident, and retiree, says a peaceful location was his top priority in picking a lake. “It’s an absolutely beautiful area, and sitting here and looking at the lake is wonderful. I have my boat that I’ll be parking right here and go for a ride anytime I want.” Besides natural beauty, the laid-back golfing lifestyle draws lots of residents to the community. With three premium golf courses and fun golf leagues for residents to join, this sport is a crucial part of the relaxed lifestyle at Tellico Village.

Inexpensive Costs

Photo courtesy of Crowne Plaza Knoxville.

Mark Richer, another Tellico Village resident, and retiree, says that a primary selling point for him is Tennessee’s lack of state income tax. Further, property taxes are 50% lower than his previous home state. These factors provide him with financial security so he can focus energy on golfing and boating. Karen Packett adds that within Tennessee, “Loudon and Monroe counties have some of the lowest property taxes in the eastern area.” These stunningly low costs make Tellico Village highly affordable.

Warm Weather

Photo courtesy of TellicoVillage.org.

East Tennessee has a mild, four seasons climate. Specifically, around the upcoming fall season, Tellico Village residents can enjoy the foliage while enjoying the crisp air. Winters are short, and temperatures rarely drop below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Mark Richer says that he moved to Tennessee from the Lake Michigan area for warmer weather and less snow. In retirement, he has more time to enjoy the mild climate and explore the lake. “Here, the lake is so big that you’d have to work hard to see the same thing twice,” he says, “I’m looking forward to driving my boat to Tennessee football games.” Mark and other Tellico Village residents have more months out of the year for quality lake time with the local warmer weather.

Social Life

Photo courtesy of TellicoVillage.org.

There are about a thousand ways to get involved at Tellico Village. Residents can choose from over 200 clubs, ranging from quilting to motorcycle riding, and get to know other retirees. If you’ve just moved in, the “New Villagers Club” facilitates social connections between new residents. Given the village’s active lifestyle, it’s no wonder that Ideal Living Magazine gave Tellico Village the award of 2016’s “Best Social Calendars.” 

Not only do residents rave about the myriad of clubs, but also about the friendships they’ve made. “The residents are truly some of the friendliest, nicest, and caring people I know,” says Karen Packett. “There is a wonderful diversity of income and race in Tellico Village. No one pays much attention to what you did before retirement; they just want to know how you want to have fun!” 

Urban Proximity

World’s Fair Park, Knoxville, TN – TNVacation.com.

Tellico Village is truly the best of both worlds — remote enough for natural landscapes, but close enough to an urban area for city amenities. The village is less than a 45-minute drive from the Knoxville Airport, Downtown Metro Knoxville, and Turkey Creek, an upscale shopping area. The area is also home to the University of Tennessee. Football fans living at Tellico Village can easily travel to college sporting events. The proximity of the university provides superior healthcare as well. Residents who need ongoing medical care can find providers at UT Medical Center; a top-ranked hospital. Overall, Knoxville has a fun downtown scene with restaurants, antique shopping, and an art museum. What’s not to love? 

At Lake Homes Realty, you’ll find agents with local expertise and national connections. Talk with one of our knowledgeable local agents like Karen Packett, to find your dream retirement location on the lake! 

Top Lake Movies by Genre

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of Bohotribex – Instagram.

Here at Lake Homes Realty, we love movies about lakes. Just look at two of our previous blog posts, Lake Movies You Must See and Top Five Movies Set on the Lake, for proof. However, we recognize that everyone has different tastes when it comes to movies. Some shy away from horror and enjoy a feel-good romantic comedy, while others hate cheesy love stories and seek an adrenaline rush at the theater. Whatever your genre preference, we have a lake-related film recommendation for you. Check out our picks below!

Horror/Thriller

Let’s start with a classic. The first Friday the 13th (1980) film sparked an 11-movie franchise about Jason Voorhees, the iconic hockey-mask-wearing villain seeking revenge on camp counselors. The location, “Camp Crystal Lake,” was actually filmed at Camp No-Be-Bo-Sco, an active boy scout camp in Hardwick, NJ. Another classic is Hunt for Red October (1990). Filmed on Lake James in North Carolina, this high stakes thriller features Alec Baldwin as a CIA agent and Sean Connery as a Soviet submarine captain during the Cold War. If you don’t like action films, but you enjoy an element of mystery, check out House by the Lake (2017). Its plot features a family who is concerned about their daughter’s strange behavior, so they bring her to a lake house on Big Bear Lake, California ,to reconnect. As in most horror films — the eerie lake house is not as safe as they believe.

Romance

There are few settings more romantic than a cozy lake cottage, and we have the films to prove it. First, The Lake House (2006) takes place outside Chicago on Maple Lake. In this remake of the South Korean film II Mare, two tenants of the same glass lake house (Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock) are living two years apart. In a magical twist, they communicate through a mailbox that transports their letters through time. For another forbidden love story, check out The Best of Me (2014). Based on the Nicholas Sparks book, it chronicles Amanda (Michelle Monoghan) and Dawson (James Marsden), who fall in love as teenagers and reunite 20 years later. Their romantic reunion was filmed on Magnolia Plantation, LA, which has a private lake. For a slower-paced romance, the award-winning On Golden Pond (1981) is the movie for you. Its New England backdrop is the idyllic Squam Lake, NH. Although the movie is technically a family drama, the enduring love story between Norman (Henry Fonda) and Ethel (Katherine Hepburn) is central, proving that romantic premises in movies are not reserved for the young.

Drama

Both a sequel and a prequel to the highly acclaimed movie The Godfather, The Godfather Part II (1974) traces Vito (Robert DeNiro’s) life story of starting the Corleone crime family, as well as his son Michael (Al Pacino’s) continuation of the family business. Michael’s home in the film is a beautiful estate on Lake Tahoe. If you’re seeking less crime drama and more personal, soul-searching drama, Wild (2014) is a great choice. Based on a true story, Wild is about a young woman named Cheryl (Reese Witherspoon) who hikes the arduous Pacific Crest Trail to piece her life back together. It was filmed near Crater Lake, Oregon, which is the deepest lake in the U.S. Finally, Lakeboat (2000) combines the seriousness of a drama with a conversational, indie delivery. Dale, a Harvard student, gets a summer job as a night cook aboard a bulk carrier vessel for lake boats on Lake Michigan (though it is filmed at Lake Ontario). The movie lacks a particular plot and chronicles Dale’s relationships with the crew members. 

Comedy

Nothing beats a good laugh – except maybe a laugh on the lake. This laughter is precisely the premise of Cheaper by the Dozen 2 (2005). Tom Baker (Steve Martin’s) scrappy, yet lovable family of 12 go to their family’s lake house for vacation and enter into a rivalry with the ostentatious Murdoch family. Set in Wisconsin, it was filmed on Stony Lake, Ontario. For more slapstick comedy, Grown Ups (2013) is about a group of childhood friends who reunite after 30 years at a lake house on Chebacco Lake, MA. Featuring legendary comedians like Adam Sandler and Maya Rudolph from Saturday Night Live, they learn that they still haven’t grown up after all this time. For less physical comedy and more subtle humor, an evergreen choice is The Parent Trap (1998). It features several scenes filmed on Lake Gregory, California– including the iconic moment when the twins leave their father’s young fiance, Meredith, floating on the lake. 

Whether you prefer to laugh, cry, or scream while watching a movie, there’s a lake-related film for you. Grab some popcorn and enjoy! 

How to Attract Birds to Your Lake House

Posted on Camille Smith

Despite its reputation as a boring pastime, bird watching is anything but dull. It’s a popular hobby that over 45 million Americans engage in, according to the U.S. Fishing and Wildlife Service. Bird watching is especially thrilling if you own a lake home. “At the lake, you have a greater range of potential bird species to interact with,” says Dr. Julian Avery, a conservation biologist at Penn State University. “I get excited thinking about different species (waterfowl, sandpipers, and sparrows) that might show up around a lake that would not enter urban areas.” Besides the joy of high-flying guests, tangible benefits to attracting birds include pest control and pollination. Ultimately, it’s worth the extra effort to attract birds to your lake house. Here are some foolproof strategies for bringing in more winged guests this season!

Choose the Right Seed

Birds are not hard to please. Just like humans, birds must fulfill their basic needs to survive. If you can provide food, water, and shelter, they’ll start congregating around your lake home. Food is an excellent place to start. Since different birds prefer different seeds, the question of how to choose the best bird seed depends on the types of birds you’d like to attract. If you want to bring in multiple species, diversify your seed types. “Make sure you use a variety of foods and clean regularly,” Dr. Avery advises, “As you increase the number of seed types, you should see an increase in species variety.” When choosing a feeder, remember to follow guidelines ,so your birdseed doesn’t attract predators.

Set up a Bird Bath

Birdbaths are not just for decor. While these shallow stone basins are a charming look for your outdoor space, they’re also a major bird magnet. For birds, these baths serve a dual purpose– drinking and preening. Just keep in mind that you must maintain it regularly. Scott, a bird enthusiast ,and blogger, writes on his website Bird Watching HQ: “Birds love having fresh water so much that typically within a few days, they have made the water in your bath pretty gross. This means that you will have to commit to changing the water every few days and cleaning with a scrub brush every few weeks.” In the winter, purchasing a heated birdbath will attract birds to your lake house. When most of their water supply is frozen, they’ll quickly gravitate towards the warm water.

Litter Some Leaves

Not all birds rely on feeders. Species like starlings, doves, and quails typically search for their next meal on the ground. To attract these birds, try raking fallen leaves underneath your shrubs to create mulch. Dr. Stephen Kress, the National Audubon Society’s vice president for Bird Conservation, told All About Birds how this strategy works. According to Dr. Kress, earthworms, roly-poly bugs, insects, and spiders will thrive in this pile of leaves, providing a delicious dinner for ground-feeding birds. “In general,” he says, “overly tidy gardeners are poor bird gardeners!”

Provide Shelter

Whether it’s snowing outside or blistering hot, birds need protection from extreme weather conditions. This need for cover will drive them away from a barren yard and closer to one filled with trees and shrubs at varying heights. “Having some vegetation and cover will enhance your feeding and viewing opportunities,” Dr. Avery says. “We tend to clear the shoreline of vegetation, but this makes it less likely you will have wildlife on your property. Waterfowl will not nest unless there is some cover, and you have a unique opportunity to help these species raise young in your backyard!” When choosing plants, be sure to pick ones native to your hardiness zone as they’ll attract native insects that birds eat. Evergreen plants are also good choices that provide shelter for birds year-round.

Put these tips into action, and your backyard will become a bird sanctuary in no time! Bird watching provides hours of enjoyment for its practitioners. 

Things to Consider When Choosing a Lake for Retirement

Posted on Camille Smith

As we’ve said before, there are countless benefits to retiring on the lake. We won’t rehash that. But how do you know which lake to pick? Last year’s list of best retirement lakes is an excellent place to start, but there’s more to the puzzle. It’s not about specific lake areas, but rather criteria that’s important to you. To simplify the process, we’ve compiled five factors that many retirees find essential in a lake for retirement. We hope this helps your search process!

Peaceful Lifestyle

Photo courtesy of Getty Images via wealthmanagement.com.

After 40 plus years of working, you’re no stranger to stress, but retirement should minimize your stress. The lake lifestyle is all about a slower pace, enjoying the outdoors, and stopping to smell the roses. For Lake of the Ozarks retiree Ray Bixler, the sense of lakeside peace is crucial in choosing a lake for retirement. Growing up on the lake, he told Boatus.com, “I left the lake several times, boating on the Mississippi, then the Florida Keys, but as I approached 60, I knew where my heart wanted me to be.” This sense of serenity is even backed by science — studies suggest that even 20-30 minutes outdoors reduces cortisol levels. Especially as an older adult, protecting your mental health and lowering your stress levels is paramount to good overall health. 

Affordability

Photo courtesy of kiplinger.com.

It’s important to financially prepare for retirement. By being frugal and preparing for future expenses, you can maximize your retirement lifestyle. For instance, many retirees choose states like Tennessee or Texas with no state income tax to save money on their home. Instead, they may spend that money on retirement experiences like traveling or adopting new hobbies. If you’re adventurous, you may take after Joe and Karen Stermitz who sold their house to travel the world and pursue an affordable, exciting retirement. Retirement should be as stress-free as possible, and picking a lake home that won’t drain your savings will reduce your worries. Check out these affordable lake areas to start.

Access to Healthcare

Photo courtesy of Julia Kuo via The New York Times.

Access to good-quality healthcare is a concern for all retirees, but especially those living in rural areas. If you’re retiring on the lake, it’s essential to plan for potential health concerns. Dave Morse, a resident of Tellico Lake, enjoys owning a rural lake home close to the urban Knoxville, Tennessee. When he had cancer four years ago, he received high-quality treatment at the University of Tennessee Cancer Institute while maintaining his lake lifestyle. As for emergency services, it’s necessary for those who live on the lake to plan ahead. To prepare for events that require a fast response like cardiac arrests, Dr. Charlotte Yeh told the New York Times that those planning to retire in a remote location, like a lake home, should take first aid and CPR classes. 

Enjoyable Climate

Before retirement, you probably spent more time indoors than outdoors. Now that you’ve got time to enjoy your backyard, choose a destination where the climate is appealing. It’s all up to your personal preference. Some retirees love looking out on a frozen pond, watching the snow falling outside. Others feel the opposite. Paulette and Herve Chassin, retirees and residents of Lake Keowee, love that the local climate allows them to pursue their love of sailing. Considering that AARP’s list of best sunny places to retire includes Asheville NC, Sarasota FL, and San Diego, CA, the Chassins are not alone in seeking a warm-weather lake for retirement! 

Nearby Community

Photo courtesy of Twin Lakes Community.

According to the National Poll on Healthy Aging, loneliness is prevalent among older adults. Although lake homes are great for privacy and natural beauty, they can add to this isolation. To remedy this, look for a retirement lake with social opportunities. “We have made numerous friends while here, as there are many entertainment options from spectacular downtown Greenville to the Brooks Center at Clemson University,” the Chassins say of their community. For a built-in social group, you can select a lake home in a retirement community like Tellico Village on Tellico Lake or White Bluff Resort on Lake Whitney. These two neighborhoods have plenty of social groups for retired residents, making them feel right at home. 

Covering over 3,000 in the United States, LakeHomes.com makes finding your lake for retirement easy! 

The Best Lake Toys for 2020

Posted on Camille Smith

Summer at the lake means more time on the water. You can waste away the days enjoying homemade treats on your boat dock, listening to relaxing music, and jumping in the lake. If you’re feeling energetic and excited for an afternoon full of games, there’s plenty of lake toys to choose from. Check out the best lake toys of 2020 to bring more summer fun to your lake home!

Hammacher Schlemmer Inflatable Dartboard

Of all the lake toys out there, this one’s right on target. Get competitive in a pool, shallow slough, or boat dock with this inflatable dartboard. Though it reaches 6 feet tall, it also stays grounded with a water-filled base. Who needs a game of darts in a crowded bar when you can enjoy space and sunshine? 

Floating Bluetooth Speaker

COWIN Floating Bluetooth Speaker

When you’re in the water, and the speaker’s on the boat dock, the music can become muffled and inaudible. With this portable, waterproof Bluetooth speaker, you can bring the fun to the water. The clear sound enhanced bass, and loud volume makes for the perfect lake or pool party.

Inflatable Iceberg

Rave Sports Inflatable Iceberg.

Ever wanted to climb Mount Everest without leaving your lake home? Now, you can! This inflatable iceberg is one of the more adventurous lake toys. Towering 14 feet, it features a climbing wall on one side and a slide on the other for maximum fun.

Floating Golf Green

4’x6′ Floating Golf Green

Can you score a hole-in-one? To every golfer who lives on the lake, this one’s for you. Assemble this floating golf green in the pool or lake and test out your skills. Add an extra tee box and floating golf balls for a more comprehensive course. 

Yamaha Sea Scooter

Yamaha Seascooter

This recreational underwater scooter is excellent for the curious lake explorer. At speeds of 2.5 miles per hour, you can chase fish in shallow waters and take photos with the integrated camera. Since it’s designed for an ocean or salt lake, keep in mind it may have less buoyancy in a freshwater lake.

Rubber Dockie

Rubber Dockie Floating Mat

When choosing among lake toys, sometimes simplicity is the best option. These bold colored rubber dockies are highly visible for safety, tear-proof, and scratch and slip-resistant. Perfect for playing sports, lounging, or just messing around on the lake. 

Giant Shootball Basketball Toy

Swimline Giant Shootball Basketball Toy

For water sports, this lake toy is a slam dunk. Swimline’s inflatable basketball net comes with three balls and multiple ports so you can challenge friends and family. Points are designated on each side so you can keep score! 

Airhead Poparazzi 3 Person Tube

Sportstuff Airhead Poparazzi Inflatable Triple Rider

Hold on tight! SportsStuff’s rider towable tube is designed to be pulled behind a boat. The EVA padding ensures a comfortable ride, and the tough nylon cover guarantees durability. With the upper deck, one of the three riders can stand up for a more thrilling ride.

Inflatable Water Trampoline

Wotryit 10′ Inflatable Water Trampoline

Get airborne with this inflatable trampoline designed for the lake! Despite its large size, the multiple inflation vales make it easy to set up, so you can start bouncing immediately. It’s also safe and made from environmentally friendly materials. Try out your best dive into the water! 

Foam Water Shooters

NZQXJXZ Foam Water Shooters

Lightweight and easy to use, these foam water shooters are perfect for parents, kids, and friends. With a shooting distance of 31 feet, you can easily surprise your opponent. Use in the lake, on your dock, in the yard — wherever you’re ready to start a friendly water war! 

We hope you love these lake toys this summer!