The warm nights of summer have faded (along with the bugs), and the coolness of fall has arrived. As winter creeps in, thoughts naturally turn to spending more time indoors but do not put away the patio furniture just yet. There are simple ways to prolong patio season and comfortably enjoy your outdoor spaces for just a little while longer.
GATHER ‘ROUND THE FIRE: FIREPITS AND CHIMINEAS
The easiest way to extend outdoor living is by generating a little heat and there is nothing like the glow and crackle of a wood fire to chase off the winter chill. Firepits and chimineas are not only perfect for extending the outdoor entertaining season, they provide the perfect centerpiece for gathering and making s’mores.
With so many freestanding kits available, there is no reason why, with just a little assembly and some firewood, you cannot have a fire in a matter of hours. Most are constructed of steel which makes them both lightweight and portable. As a result, there is less of a commitment to location, and it can be easily stored (or covered) when winter finally takes over.
Chimineas are another easy-to-install option for wood fires. From the Spanish word for chimney, they have a distinct advantage over their firepit cousins. The chimney helps direct smoke up, allowing friends and family to enjoy the warmth and look of the flames without the smoke. Though they are traditionally made of clay or terracotta, you can also find many options made of a more durable steel or cast iron.
If the thought of hauling firewood and cleaning up ash sounds like too much work, you can still get the flames without the effort or smoke. There are gas firepit options, powered by the same 20-pound propane tanks as a gas grill. With a smaller, more controlled flame, burners are often incorporated into tables for added space saving (also to hide the propane tank) and can be dressed up with volcanic rock or colorful fire glass for a cleaner, contemporary look.
TURN UP THE HEAT: ELECTRIC AND GAS HEATERS
If it is strictly heat you are after, outdoor heaters can warm areas anywhere from 125 to 200-square-feet at the push of a button. Many also include wheels for added portability and storage.
If your outdoor space includes electrical outlets, you can take advantage of electric infrared heating. Similar to sunshine in that it is radiant heat and immediately felt on the skin, there is little to no wait time before you can begin to enjoy the warmth. There are smaller units designed to be mounted out of the way, either hanging from ceilings or mounted on walls if your space has them. If not, freestanding units with a look similar to a floor lamp, can get things cozy in no time.
Gas powered heaters offer the same radiant heat without the cord, again using a propane tank like that of a typical gas grill. Depending on the model, a full tank can give you eight to ten hours of heat on low and four to five hours on high. Smaller tabletop units are also available for smaller gatherings or when not as much heat is needed.
SET THE MOOD:
LIGHTS, BLANKETS AND MORE
While generating heat certainly plays a part in comfort, there are other things you can do create a cozy and inviting environment even after the temperatures drop.
Start with lighting. Add outdoor lamps or string lighting to give an overall glow. Candles, either battery operated or lantern style, will stand up to any breezes and help accent the space, especially if you’re relying on heaters rather than fire. Then, add a layer of thick, warm blankets for additional comfort and the opportunity to cuddle.
Also consider what you can serve guests to warm their insides. Comfort foods like soups or chili provide an easy way to serve a crowd with stick-to-your-ribs goodness. Offer warm after- dinner drinks: hot chocolate or cider for kids and Irish coffee or hot toddies for the adults. If you have a fire going, s’mores or popcorn are both easy, classic fireside treats to end the evening on a sweet and salty note.
As the nights grow longer and colder it can be tempting to hide out from winter by staying indoors. Instead, head outside and embrace winter’s clear night skies and clean, crisp air. Better yet, chase away the winter gloom by basking in the glow of an outdoor fire and sharing food with friends and family.
HOT TODDY
Ingredients:
• 1 cup water
• 1 tea bag black tea
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 1/2 ounces brandy, or whiskey, or rum
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice, or to taste
• Lemon wedge, for garnish
• Cinnamon stick, for garnish
Directions:
Pre-heat mug with hot water while you prepare the tea. Heat the 1 cup of water and allow the tea to steep for 3-5 minutes. Empty the mug and add the honey, followed by the liquor, lemon juice, and brewed tea. Stir to mix ingredients and garnish with lemon and/or cinnamon stick.
AUTHENTIC IRISH COFFEE
Ingredients:
• 1 cup freshly brewed coffee, dark brews work best
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 jigger Irish whiskey (1.5 ounces or 3 tablespoons)
• Heavy cream, slightly whipped
Directions:
Pre-heat mug with hot water while you prepare the coffee. Empty the mug and add the coffee and brown sugar, stirring until it is completely dissolved. Add the whiskey and stir again. Add the heavy cream by pouring over the back of a spoon. Do not stir and immediately serve.