Brinx’s Backyard Blog – February 23: Get Ready for Summer: Pools, Patios, & Playtime

Woof! Brinx here for the last February check-in!

I’ve been rolling in the last of the snow and inspecting the yard for any surprises winter left behind. Kansas winters are unpredictable, but this is the perfect time to start thinking about how your backyard will shine this summer.

Pools, patios, and play areas should be on your radar. Now’s the time to research materials, layouts, and features. Imagine a pool with a baja shelf, a fire pit just off the patio, and me lounging nearby, tail wagging as you sip a cold drink—it’s motivation to start planning.

Don’t forget about furniture and shade structures. A pergola, cabana, or retractable awning can make your outdoor living space usable from spring through fall. Inspect existing structures for winter wear and plan upgrades if needed. I usually supervise this by lying on the deck and “testing” comfort levels—it’s a serious job.

For the gardeners, February is ideal for ordering plants and trees for spring delivery. Think ahead about bloom timing, color palettes, and functional design. I like to “help” by sniffing the catalog, making sure nothing smells suspicious—quality control is important, after all.

Lighting and ambiance are often overlooked but make a huge difference. Plan for landscape lighting, pathway lights, and cozy seating areas. Imagine summer evenings with soft lights and the gentle hum of conversation—plus me patrolling the perimeter, naturally keeping everyone safe and happy.

Finally, enjoy these planning sessions! The more thought you put in now, the smoother and more enjoyable summer will be. Winter may still be holding on in Kansas, but your backyard dreams don’t have to wait. Let’s get ready for sunshine, fun, and maybe a few supervised snowball fights before the real heat hits!