Getting Cozy in the Backyard With Kmart

Disclosure

Each year, we undertake some kind of project around our house. Whether it be painting and updating a bedroom or something more major like a kitchen remodel. A few years ago, we decided to give some love to our much-neglected back yard. The prior owners had never done any kind of landscaping and the deck had never been stained. It was desperately in need of help.

So we spent a lot of time power washing, sanding and staining it. Another project included creating a bed with brick edging and bark. But amidst all the projects and touch-ups, there’s one thing we didn’t do.

Accessorize.  It’s been a little while and it’s already ready for more stain.  But in the meantime, it needs some attention.

Our deck is functional but it’s not fancy.  It’s very simple.  I don’t have a green thumb. I’m not artistic. I’m not crafty. Frankly, I’m design-challenged. My deck is a great space for sitting and talking/relaxing. Unfortunately, it isn’t very cozy or inviting.  The kids keep asking to eat on the deck once the weather gets nice. We love to throw the umbrella up and enjoy lunch or dinner.  But we just bring some plates and glasses out and don’t do anything really special.

As luck would have it, Collective Bias was doing a design challenge on a budget. $300 to shop at Kmart and transform your backyard space.

Mine… I wanted it cozy. I figured $300 wouldn’t go far but it would give me some neat items to make my space more inviting.  I set off to Kmart with some ideas in mind.

As a kid, Kmart was synonymous with chaos.  The whole “Blue Light Special” and the mad dash to get the deals.  In hindsight, I kind of miss that.  It was actually fun.  Even over the past several years, I’ve noticed a change in Kmart.  They seem to be carrying more variety of larger items.  I don’t remember ever seeing displays of gazebos and lawn furniture before.The variety of stuff was great but the layout really killed me.  We had a few hours to spend before heading home to get the kids off the bus.  I expected that I would find all the items related to my shopping trip all in the same general area.  Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case.  The tablecloth for the patio tables was with the linens instead of with the outdoor and patio furniture.  I would have loved to see that kiosk relocated to what seemed like a more natural location.  If not, at least end caps or kiosks with a variety of items and a sign that said “For more choices, visit our linen/housewares/whatever section.”  I was already amazed at the variety that I saw in the other transformation that I know there was more that I just didn’t find.I made several purchases and Kmart before heading up to the checkout. When the final bill rang up, it was only a fraction of my $300 budget. I was absolutely amazed all all that I had acquired without breaking the bank. Since I wasn’t able to find the items I wanted most – the covers – I’ll be setting back out to look for them at a different Kmart. With the balance of the budget, I’ll see what else I can find.

As a bonus, when I checked out the register printed a 10% off coupon because I used my rewards card. I’ll bring a calculator with this time so I know how much is remaining in my budget!

When I got home, I transplanted the flowers into the two planters, unwrapped and set everything up.  I couldn’t believe how such simple changes could make such a huge difference.  The gazing balls we purchased for the shepherd hooks and the hanging plant were among the highlights.  As I look out my kitchen window, I see them and they make me smile. Seriously. Such gratification for such a small price.  I wonder why I didn’t do this sooner.I can only imagine what a difference it will make when I add more to it.

It’s been yucky and raining here this week and is predicted to continue next week. As soon as I get my new stuff, I’ll upload the pictures. I can’t wait.If you would like to find out more about the great deals at Kmart, check out their website or visit them on Facebook or Twitter.

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