One of the most enjoyable nuances, of course, is that we have an extended summer season most years, which creeps into June and lasts long through September and often into early October.

 That means that you and I have the luxury of spending more time outdoors in our own little green space than most others throughout the world, enjoying the elongated summer period.

 And if you have your own backyard garden, then you know that one of the wonders that comes along with that is that it can be easily turned into a grand, outdoor, summertime living space.

 If you're so inclined, the rewards can be great - surrounding yourself in nature can be a great way to relax and forget about the stresses of everyday life. Having a getaway in a properly shaded area can also provide a respite from the summer heat, all while keeping the bugs off.

 It really can be the best of both worlds.

 For those who have the space and are really serious about making their garden space an outdoor living room, there are plenty of additions they can make to give the space that homey intermix between comfort and nature.

 Adding a stand-alone deck, for instance, makes for a great place to entertain any guests who might drop by this summer.

 And your deck need not be used only seasonally. Throwing in a portable fire pit for marshmallow roasting and extra-wide, bench-style seating can create a great environment in which your family can snuggle up together under a blanket in the cooler months.

 Whether you have a new deck or an old one, an integral part of it could be the inclusion of an amenity-rich outdoor kitchen.

 And don't get caught up thinking one dimensionally and, solely, about your barbecuing grill.

 We're talking well beyond the simple grill and sink here - we're talking fully equipped, designed to keep you from running back and forth between the barbecue and the indoor kitchen counter.

 After all, why not have a place where you can not only grow but also grill your vegetables all in one spot? You could literally take peppers directly from your garden to your grill!

 This kind of outdoor kitchen can have just as many options as your interior one, and maybe even more, since you'll no longer be bound by the restrictions of plumbing and walls or doors.

 And remember - if you're intending to do a lot of cooking outdoors, and storing some of your cookware and utensils outside during the fall months, you'll want to invest in durable, mould resistant, weather- and animal-proof cabinets.

 No outdoor space would be complete without a little backyard furniture to add to the environment.

 There is no shortage of outdoor options available at many fine retailers right here in Lunenburg County.

 Patio sets are now designed to be more weather resistant than ever or, if it suits your tastes, a couple of well-placed benches can offer the park-like feel and the comfort of something sturdy on which to situate your posterior.

 An outdoor clock, a trellis or a thermometer can also add a little charm and make your space that much more inviting.

 If you're looking to settle into a chair our outdoor couch in your backyard paradise and enjoy a good book, but you'd like to add a little soft musical ambiance, there are clever ways to hide speaker sources in your yard.

 Surround-sound systems can appear to be anything from rocks to terra-cotta pots, ensuring that your truly unique speakers will blend in with nature.

 You can also add some light to your backyard living room with ease by incorporating some solar-powered lights.

 Whatever you choose, there are all kinds of options, elaborate or simple, to make your outdoor space your very own.

 So, figure out what your needs and wants are and then get to work crafting a plan and space to make that happen - and do it before the summer season slips away!