Close your eyes and think of a memory that involves sitting on a porch or balcony. Were you in a mountain cabin? A condo at the beach? A friends home?

Chances are your memory takes you to a place of relaxation. I want to share with you ways to make your own porch memorable and relaxing.

Porches were originally built for practical purposes. They kept the direct sunlight from pouring into the house during the hot summer days and protected the home from the elements in the winter. It was not long before the residents of the home saw this area as an extension of their living space. It became a place to read, eat and even sleep on a hot night. My own memories consists of using a wrap around front porch at my grandmothers to put on shows with my cousins. We did not need an audience, we just needed a stage.

Are you using your covered space in the best way possible? Do you need a space for entertaining friends or a quiet place to drink your coffee. Will your goals change with the seasons? My porch is for eating and relaxing three seasons of the year but in the winter I change the focus to a winter wonderland. I use decorative snowmen, a tabletop tree, and stuffed animals to brighten the area. Strands of lights bring a bit of magic to the area during the gray months of winter. This time of year I am not outside on my porch very much but it is fun to view it from my kitchen. When the weather warms up, everything is renewed with green healthy plants, bright colored pillows and a freshly set table. It calls to me to come out and enjoy!

1. Set up your seating so that it is encourages easy conversation. Make sure there is a place for a beverage glass within reach of each chair.

2. Installing a ceiling fan will bring a much appreciated breeze on a stifling night.

3. Bead board installed on the ceiling adds texture to a forgotten space. Paint it light blue to portray the sky.

4. An unused chest of drawers or dresser can be pulled outside and put to work holding placemats and napkins. Store playing cards, checkers and puzzles in the drawers so they will be within easy reach when the mood for a game strikes.

5. Hang a wreath, ironwork, inexpensive art or a poster of your favorite vacation spot on the wall of a back porch.

6. Craft and floral stores have ready made garlands made from greenery, grapevines or silk flowers. Weave strands of small lights throughout the garland and hang as a border around your outdoor room. Cup hooks spaced around area will hold most intertwined materials. It is easy to change the look with the season.

7. Tuck away some outdoor speakers and have an cd player envelop you with soft jazz as you sip an elegant glass of wine.

Whether you have a deep porch with columns or a tiny covered balcony, it can be turned into a mellow retreat that beckons you outside to enjoy the day. Do not miss the opportunity!