Yes, it’s that time of year again to sit down and take stock. Time to think about what’s going well in our lives and where we can make improvements. In short, it’s time for making our New Year’s resolutions.

And because DeckTec is focused on making outdoor living a grand experience, we thought we’d put together 14 resolutions to make 2014 the best year yet.  Here’s what we envision:

1. Get outside more – According to a 2013 article in the Huffington Post, just 20 minutes outside can revitalize your outlook and your energy.
2. Take care of what’s yours – Pride of ownership can only take you so far, especially if what you own becomes run down.  Get a jump on feeling great by taking good care of your deck with a maintenance service twice a year.
3. Build a closer relationship – Create a good place to talk in your yard with a couple of chairs, a blanket for when the weather is chill, and quiet away from electronics of all kinds. Who knows what you’ll learn just by talking to your spouse, your children, your parents? Being outdoors together lets you focus on who’s truly important to you.
4. Stop smoking – people are now smoking outside more and more. While you can do this, why not make this the year you quit? A book like Allen Carr’s “Easyway to Stop Smoking” might be a good first step.
5. Appreciate nature – When you step out your back door, make a commitment to look around at the abundant bird watching opportunities there are. This fun and inexpensive hobby can bring you and your loved ones hours of enjoyment and personal growth as you watch for different birds, nests, and even observe what your feathered friends eat. You may want to check in with the Audubon Society of Greater Denver to learn more.
6. Take care of our planet – Whether or not you’re a proponent of Climate Change, taking care of nature is never a bad idea.  How ’bout building a bee friendly environment in your back yard this year?  Sunset Magazine has five great tips you can use to help our planet keep our bees; creatures responsible for as much as one-third of the food we eat.
7. Eat better – And speaking of eating, try using a grill instead of a restaurant menu – Barbeques provide a clean, easy, tasty, and healthy meal alternative to eating out.  And if you have a roof cover over your deck, you can grill comfortably year round.
8. Raise healthier children – play outside with the kids in warmer weather—the exercise will do you both good.
9. Be more social – who needs text messaging when a good party will give you the chance to catch up even better? When you hold a block party this summer, hold it outside on your deck.  People will be comfortable, the food will be fun right off the grill, and getting to know your neighbors will provide a secure and comfortable environment for years to come.
10. Plant a garden – the benefits are enormous. Whether you plant a few flowers for the pleasure of watching something grow, or vegetables to eat, gardening is great exercise and mental stimulation. And if you plant a vegetable garden, be sure to donate your left-overs to your local food bank.  For more information be sure to check out Plant A Row for the Hungry
11. 11.  Train your pets – Yes, Fido may sit and lay down on command, but there are a wide array of tricks and skills you can teach your dog or cat, given patience, treats and the space to enjoy each other. Take Nalla out for a little one-on-one time for five minutes each day and your neighbors and friends will soon be asking for your pet training tips! Check out the list of skills required for the Canine Good Citizen certificate at the American Kennel Club’s website.
12. Start a creative hobby –  Life’s richest moments are often obtained when we invest them with the creativity we all possess. This is the best year yet to start writing your novel, take up painting, grow a garden, or play a musical instrument. It’s been proven that hobbies like these are good for your mind and spirit. And best of all, this creativity can be nurtured right out your back door.  When you sit under the roof of your deck, you can enjoy the inspiration of the outdoors, while protecting your eyes, skin, and body temperature.
13. Be a better neighbor – The value of your home often depends on the look and feel of the neighborhood that surrounds it. Make sure you do your part by adding some attractive garden storage.  Put away sports equipment when not in use, or gardening tools, outdoor furniture cushions, and all the small clutter items that will also last longer when properly stored.
14. Add some art to your outdoor life – Maybe this is the year to go all out and purchase a sculpture for your garden. When we invest in things that make us happy we become people others are attracted to as well. And remember, while beauty is in the eye of the beholder, the art of outdoor living is a joy for years to come.

Happy New Year to all from your friends at DeckTec.

(Photo By Amodiovalerio Verde)