The sun is toasting up our world and vacation planning is in full swing. Here, in Lancaster County, we love this season and all the beauty it brings.
It kind of makes us want to stay home and enjoy vacation right here, in our own backyard. Vacations at home, or staycations like they’re referred to nowadays, are all the rage.
Not only does it save money and travel time but these vacations also give you a new appreciation for your own hometown.
What’s a better way to appreciate your hometown than celebrating the summer season in the comfort of your own home?
Preparation:
1- Stock up on your favorite snacks and treats.
Vacationing at home doesn’t mean you need to give up the sweet indulgence of eating out or travel snacks. If you live in a rural area, visit some of the local food stands for fresh fruit and vegetables.
2- Borrow or buy your favorite movies and books.
Vacation basically means relaxing while enjoying the little simplicities of life. You can prepare to do just that with a stack of the classic books or the latest, greatest movie on DVD!
3- Ask off work and cancel other obligations.
This is vacation time so obviously no work allowed. It’s also helpful to limit, if not eliminate, any extracurricular activities that would cut into your relaxation and fun!
Tip: Unplug Technology. Take a step back from the distraction of social media and beeping of your phone for some quality time with your family. You will be able to focus more on each other, relaxing, and having a great time together — distraction-free!
4- Set a start and end date.
In order for this to be a successfully relaxing vacation, you need to carve out the time to properly rest. During this time, keep your schedule free for vacation time only.
5- Decorate and clean your home for fresh atmosphere.
No need to spend hours deep cleaning or rearranging your home but treating yourself to some new treasure will help create the vacation you long for. Choose something that speaks to you like a new coffee flavor to try or board game to play.
|| Who says your house has to look boring? ||
Like our last preparation step, adding new furniture to your home can take your vacation from “well, alright…” to “amazing, let’s do this again next year!”
Without the cost of travel, you can invest in a few fun furniture pieces to prepare your home for the upcoming staycation. Investing in our handcrafted furniture has lasting benefits because each piece is made with utmost care and will last for years.
Perhaps a new entertainment center, like our sleek 50″ Plasma TV Cabinet, would complete your living room atmosphere for the perfect movie night! You will be able to enjoy that addition all year round, from these sunny summer days to cozy winter nights.
Maybe you need a little furniture for a more restful sanctuary outside? With a few new pieces, like our Fanback Recliner or Double Rollback Lawn Swing, you can properly enjoy your vacation outside — in comfort and ease! Let the book reading, napping, and snacking binge begin!
Activities:
1- Adventure Outside.
Summertime is known for its incredible sunny weather. Now is your chance to get out and enjoy it!
Take a walk near your home to see the beautiful world awaken right before your eyes or challenge yourself to a longer hike. Maybe you could even pack a picnic to feast on after your adventure.
We all know the swimming is great for cooling down but what about a water balloon fight? You could even set the sprinkler up and let the kids go wild!
Turn off the television and enjoy the evening free of electronics, relaxing on a blanket surrounded by glittering fireflies.
If you have the space, you could spend some time starting your own little garden and learning how your favorite vegetable grows! You’ll reap the work of your hands in the months to follow.
2- Try Creativity.
With the freedom of endless time, this staycation is the ideal time to try your hand on a creative endeavor or two.
Embrace creativity and get elbow deep in flour, following a fun recipe of choice like our classic Shoo-Fly Pie. Looking for a heartier, Amish dish? Our Amish Roast contains butter-drenched stuffing, tender chicken, and thinly-sliced celery, a mix that tastes as tantalizing as it sounds!
Try a DIY project from supplies found around your house like this adorable card for your darling or write a letter for a long-distance friend. Or invest in a canvas and let the beauty of nature inspire you to paint.
3- Go Local.
Take this chance of being home without work or plans as the perfect opportunity to discover more of your town. Become a tourist for the day and learn all about the unique treasure you live in. Search your home for its hidden gems like mom-and-pop shops and local bakeries.
Perhaps you have always wanted to visit the local museum or a summer art fair. Maybe a new restaurant has been calling your name, beckoning you to try their delicious dishes. Whatever it is, this staycation is your opportunity to check it out!
Tip: Interested in an unique day trip? We love Lancaster for many reasons and summer just brings out the best in our sweet home. Check out our summer activity list, ideal for couples and families, for a few visiting suggestions!
This summer, try out a little vacation at home and see what you think. Maybe it’ll give you just the perfect amount of rest and fun that you’ve dreamed of!
