Tag: lake living

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.

Tiny Home Living, Is it For You?

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

One of the latest ways of alternative living is residing in a tiny home. This movement has started a few short years ago and does not seem to be slowing down.

tiny home living at the lakeIt doesn’t seem like a fad, but a popular alternative way of life. Thousands of people are opting for a mortgage free life to ease the pain of the current economy.

Why are tiny houses so popular?

Can you imagine living free of rent, with no mortgage, and tiny utility bills? Those who seek out tiny houses are searching for just that. They offer a way to live limited monthly bills.

Economic and the environmental changes can force us to re-evaluate our way of life. As it turns out, there are many people who have opted for this cheap way of life in order to sustain their family or themselves.

What are tiny homes?

Tiny homes offer a simple way of life with a beautiful small home, yet has everything that you need to live. Traditionally, these small homes are measured to be around 8 X 16 feet. They normally contain a sleeping loft, living area, a bathroom, and a kitchen.

They can be constructed to fit a trailer so that they are able to be moved very easily. They offer individuals the chance at homeownership without having to purchase large lots of land for them to reside on. For some, tiny living allows them to live off the grid, since the tiny homes are able to generate their own electricity, as well as water.

Some aspects of living in a tiny home are very different than a normal home. Storage is very limited and belongings are restricted to almost the bare minimum.

How do you purchase a tiny home?

There are different companies that will offer you custom built tiny homes or you can build your own with typical construction materials or with a kit.

There are other companies that offer you a shell, which comes ready to travel on the trailer, with a roof, windows, and the door. You are responsible for building the inside how you would like it.

Where can you park your tiny home?

Parking will ultimately be dependent on how your home is registered. Most tiny homes are registered as RVs. This means that you can park your tiny home on RV lots and other places that are RV friendly.

However, there are some tiny homes that are classified as a mobile home. In this case you will be able to park your tiny home wherever mobile homes are welcome.

Tiny homes can be a perfect fit for someone who wants to spend all their time at the lake out on the lake. They provide a place to clean up, sleep and eat to recharge then head back out on the water.

Tiny homes may not be for everyone, but it doesn’t look like this movement is going anywhere anytime soon!

 

Never Been to a Lighted Boat Parade? Here’s Your Chance!

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

Are you looking for something amazingly fun to do on June 20, 2015? Look no further; you can add the Summer Lights on Logan Martin Lake Boat Parade to your calendar. This first ever Summer Lights Parade will begin at the Woods Surfside Marina at 8:00PM and then finish at the Pell City Lakeside Park. Judging will be located by the Coosa Queen Riverboat.

There are many companies and other venues that are participating; here is a short list of many of those involved:

  • summer lights on logan martin94.9 The River
  • Coosa Queen Riverboat
  • Woods Surfside Marina
  • Cropwell KO’s Paint and Body Shop
  • Extreme Printing and Signs
  • Realty Executives: Nancy Locklar
  • 9 The River

The entry fees are $10, which is meant to be as a donation. All of the proceeds will go to the Pell City Police Foundation.  There will be a contest of the best-decorated boat, as well as a dock contest.

This is considered to be the first of an annual event that will provide fun for all ages. Make sure to attend this great event this weekend!

 

 

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.

 

Why It’s Great Living on a Lake With Boating Restrictions

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

Although there are many people who enjoy the active lake scene, there are others who enjoy a lake that is peaceful. There are benefits to living on a lake with boating restrictions.

You definitely should not let boating restrictions make you turn away from a beautiful home on a relaxing lake.

Lower Noise Levels

Different lakes have different restrictions. Just because the lake has a restriction, does not mean that boats are not allowed to be on the lake. It may mean that the motor cannot go over a certain size.

Restrictions help keep the noise to a minimum. It will help to not disturb those who live on the lake or those who are fishing at the banks.

Safer Conditions

There are many accidents that happen due to boating. Swimming in the same waters where boats are zooming by can prove to be a dangerous situation.

Every year there are different accidents that cause injuries or worse. Living on a lake that has restrictions will keep swimmers and children safe from bad accidents from those who speed around the lake.

For those lakes that do not restrict to the point of boats not being allowed on the lake, they do have restrictions on other aspects to include safety. For example, some lakes have a restriction on how fast a boat is able to go. Others have extra water patrols, and some even have lighting requirements to ensure the boat is lit properly for visibility.

No Wake Zone

No wake zoneThis zone is put into place in areas like docks, marinas, bridges, and residential areas. The zone keeps the area safe for everyone.

These zones are enforced to protect people and property. They help prevent flooding from high waves, help with shoreline erosion, and prevent boat and dock damage.

No Environmental Damages

There are lakes that have strict regulations about pollution and sanitation. This is to help prevent damage to the local environment. Some lakes have restrictions on the type of engine due to exhaust fumes and oil leakage.

Others have restrictions on the way you dispose of waste, so the water is protected. There can also be restrictions for the way you launch your boat to prevent shoreline erosion.

Canoeing and Kayaking

If you enjoy paddling then a restrictive lake is ideal for you. You will be able to enjoy calm waters without the worry of boats and their associated wakes. Instead of being turned off by lake restrictions, you should be aware of the large benefits that restrictions have to offer. Typically restrictions do not seriously impact the way the water is used, they just help protect the community and the environment.

Restrictions keep you and your property safe and should not deter you from purchasing your dream lake home!

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

Lake house surrounded by trees for privacy
Photo courtesy of Birmingham Home and Garden.

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.

How to Accent Lake Views Using Indoor Design

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

home interiorIf you own a home with a beautiful view of the lake, then decorating your home to match the area is a great way to add to the ambiance. There are different themes you can use to offer a beautiful scene for your lakeside home.

These room themes can help accent your lake views using indoor design!

With each theme you choose, there are certain items that can be purchased.

  • Wall Décor
  • Trinkets
  • Throw Pillows
  • Quilt
  • Rugs
  • Picture Frames
  • Furniture Color

Fishing Theme

If you are an avid fisher, then this theme is perfect. From fishing theme throws and pillows, to a large stuffed bass on the wall, you can add to the view of your lake. A great idea to add to this theme is to find old fishing poles onto the wall for an added sense of being on the water.

Another wonderful idea is to use canoe paddles for wall decoration. To add to the warmth of this theme, use a quilt to put over the back of your sofa and other fishing related items.

  • Old Fishing Poles
  • Fish Netting
  • Stuffed Fish on Plaque
  • Paddles
  • Painting of Fishing Boats
  • Anchors

Underwater Theme

The underwater theme is a simple theme that will add to the view of your lake. Keep the theme to any aspect of being under the water like fish and underwater plants. Although this theme incorporates parts of the other themes, the main aspect of this theme is shades of blue and sparkling pieces.

  • Blue Throws
  • Blue Pillows
  • Water Scene Painting
  • Trinkets of Fish or Water Animals

Sea Side Theme

underwater home interiorIf you love the sun and the beach, then decorating your home with a seaside theme would be great to add to the view of the lake. There is decor you can purchase to add to it like visions of dolphins, crabs, and more.

This includes orange colored items, as well as yellow, blue, and other colors that offer a sense of being on the beach. It will allow you to feel refreshed and relaxed, all while looking through your window and the open water. There are different ideas that will help you add to this theme.

  • Paintings of the Beach
  • Decorative Bottle of Sand
  • Trinket of Children Building a Sand Castle
  • Star Fish Wall Decor
  • Fish Netting
  • Coral
  • Sea Horses

At times finding water related items can be difficult. One great way to add to the theme you choose is to visit a fabric store. They have a lot of different patterns that will match your theme. You are able to hand make pillows and cushion covers to ensure that your furniture matches the theme.

The one aspect to remember when redecorating is that if the item does not have a specific theme, at least make sure it is of the same color as the rest of the furniture or décor.

Small do-it-yourself projects can be fun and offer pieces to display. Adding to the view of your lake will help you take advantage of the great view that you have at your disposal. It will also give your friends and family a comfortable and relaxing area to bond and spend time with one another!

Great Closing Gifts for Closing on a Lake Home

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

GiftThe previous owner can thank the new owner by providing him with a closing gift as a sign of respect for the transaction done. In this article we will provide some great examples for closing gifts for closing on a lake home.

Spiritual gifts

Give a book that is all about love, joy, happiness, and belief as a gift to the new owner to congratulate them on a new start in an interesting way.

Dog and cat gifts

Families love their four legged animals and a gift for them would be appreciated deeply from all family members, in which the dog is included as well. You can buy dog and cat gift stacks with high quality products, cookies, doughnuts, and everything that pets will love.

Respecting new owner’s dog means you respect them as well. That is why this closing gift is highly recommended.

Patriotic gift

American FlagEvery American homeowner should have an American Flag in their home. That makes it a perfect closing and housewarming gift. Make sure the quality of the flag is high.

This gift is wonderful because everyone seldom thinks about buying it. The price is not high either; less than $50.

House portrait

If you really want to impress your client with a custom and great closing gift, provide them with a painting of the house where they are moving in.

Sign your name in the portrait and now it becomes a marketing piece. It is really impressive and amazes the clients every time. There are some websites where you can buy these portraits such as “CuteHousePortraits.Com”.

Night out

Rather than providing a materialistic gift, why not go out for a dinner and enjoy the night?

Make all the reservations for your dinner. Arrange limousine to pick you and your client up. Lastly, ask the restaurant staff to send a thank you letter to the client in your name. It would be truly memorable.

New experience

Similar to the last one, this is not materialistic but an activity. What if your client has everything and you do not know what to give to them?

How about for a new experience for which they will talk about years after? Choose a guided fishing trip on the lake or a sunset cruise on a sailboat.

Not only will it be an enjoyable outing, it will also help the homeowner to learn more about the lake that they will be living on!

Closing gifts are like the concluding remarks of an essay. If done properly and effectively, you will impress your audience, who in this case would be the client. It is the last thing they will see or hear from you so put some effort into it and you are almost guaranteed future referrals.