Every Friday the highways leading out of large urban areas are very busy with folks leaving town seeking a weekend of rest or recreation. On Sunday the process is repeated with traffic flowing in the opposite direction as they make the journey home. High traffic volume and higher gasoline prices have made this weekend commute a very expensive and aggravating experience. However it was worth it because on Saturday you got to mow the cottage grass, fix the rotten handrail and secure the dock. Then Sunday morning before packing up to go home you had time to get rid of that wasp nest and investigate the terrible smell coming from under the front step. Congratulations, you have now earned five days of rest before next weekend’s trip to the cottage!
A growing trend is people creating their weekend oasis in the backyard and getting away from the expense and hassle of cottage life. Pools can be far more than holes in the ground filled with water. Including a cabana, terraced patios and a modern BBQ creates an entertainment center for hosting family and friends. A quiet shade area with a fish pond is perfect for relaxing with your favourite book. Add a badminton net or basketball hoop and you have activities to keep those athletes busy. Gardens, flowers, trees, shrubs and landscape accents can all be used to add your personal flair to the oasis. Sound expensive? Not to worry, because once you stop that costly cottage routine many things will become affordable. An added bonus is that your oasis is part of your principle residence and not taxable should the time come to sell.
Go to Meadow Valley Garden and Gift center at www.meadowvalley.ca for all the gardening supplies and expert advice you will need to create your urban escape.