lazing in the sun

Abbeys summer coat gradually coming in, the weather keeps going warm then cold again so don't think the horses know what to do..
not been doing a lot of riding, just 20 mins a day up and down the drive bareback,  as I've been saving up to get my saddle adjusted to fit better.. she has widened (got fatter.. lol) so I won't use it till its been sorted.

Organising Your Backyard for Summer, guest post by Kaitlin Krull

Organising Your Backyard for Summer
Kaitlin Krull

After the snow has melted away and your garden is finally showing signs of life again, it’s time to enjoy your outdoor space. But before you send out invites for tea parties and bonfires, you and your garden need to get your acts together. Check out some of these tips for organizing your backyard to help you have the best summer ever.

Come dine with me
Your home isn’t ready for summertime entertaining until you’ve created an outdoor dining space. Less is definitely more when it comes to eating outside, so give your garden patio or decking a rustic theme with wooden furniture and repurposed jugs and jars for storage. Hang some fairy lights above the table for the late nights spent with friends and loved ones and you’re all set. Bring on the Pimms!

via Apartment Therapy

Party games
Equip your outdoor space with lawn games for your next garden party and you will definitely win entertainer of the summer. Bowls, croquet, and badminton aren’t just for the elite and stuck up; it’s all about having fun! Even a net and football can turn the calmest of get togethers into an energetic, competitive time. Just make sure no one takes it too far and you’re all still friends at the end of the party.

via Country Living

Fan the flame

If your garden space allows it, why not create a fire pit to keep the outdoor party going on those warm summer evenings. Homemade pits have the most rustic appeal, but if needs must, feel free to use a chiminea or metal/stone fire pit instead. Leave some folding chairs or waterproof cushions nearby for impromptu s’mores roasting and ghost stories around the fire.

via DaisyMaeBelle

Let kids be kids

If you have children, most of your outdoor time this summer will undoubtedly be spent chasing them around with a bottle of suncream and playing endless games of hide and seek. Give the kids their own space in the garden with a play house, swing and slides, or some sand and sidewalk chalk. If you’re very, very brave, you could even give them a mud kitchen. Just make sure the hose is handy after playtime.

via Life in the Dub Lane

A touch of green
It may sound redundant, but by adding some plants to your garden, you will see an instant lift in your outdoor space. Besides keeping your existing greenery trimmed and pruned, having some organised gardening projects on display will encourage you and your family to spend more time outdoors and will undoubtedly look great when guests come over. Choose easily maintained plants and flowers so everyone can participate in the gardening.

via Kelly Moore

Maintenance
By cleaning up after every party and play session, you will be able to spend your time enjoying the warmer days and can make the most of your summer. Use these tips and your imagination to get your garden ready for summer. You will not be disappointed! Now, if only the weather would cooperate with your plans.

For more tips and tricks, head to Modernize.com