More of us are staying home this summer and why not when our backyards can serve as an extension of our homes, a place to relax and a place for family and friends to gather and create long-lasting memories. Simple additions to the backyard can make it more comfortable than ever and you won’t miss taking that vacation when your own space rivals the resorts and campgrounds.

A backyard fire pit is an inexpensive way to add ambience to your backyard and with above ground, portable models available that are virtually maintenance-free, it doesn’t take much effort to begin enjoying the crackling of a campfire. With so many styles to choose from, you’ll be sure to find one you like.

Perhaps you would prefer to build an in-ground fire pit with bricks or decorative stones. It’s easier than you might think and with resources from your local library or do-it-yourself tutorials found on the Internet, even a novice can be become a mason for a day.

Fire pits can serve as more than just a place to warm your toes as cool spring nights turn into summer. Try your hand at cooking much like you would a barbecue grill. A simple metal grate can turn your pit into an outdoor cooking surface. Flame-broiled never tasted so good when meat, fish, poultry and vegetables take on the delicious smoky flavor of a campfire.

Another way to enjoy an outdoor fire is with a chiminea. An outdoor fireplace that comes in a variety of sizes, chimineas come in copper, clay, aluminum and cast iron.

Consider safety when using fire pits or outdoor fireplaces and check to see if your community allows them. Always have a source for water and a fire extinguisher nearby in case of an emergency. Use common sense and never leave a fire unattended.

To get the most out of your backyard oasis, you’ll need comfortable seating. The folding lawn chair of yesterday is no longer the only option. Today’s outdoor furniture rivals the comfort of your indoor furniture and has the convenience of weather-resistant fabric that looks good season after season. Fade-resistant and quick to dry, these specially made outdoor fabrics are sometimes made from recycled materials, so you can feel good about keeping plastics out of landfills while you relax in comfort.

From chairs to loveseats to hanging swings and free-standing hammocks, your outdoor furniture will be the most used in or rather, around the house this summer.

In addition to furniture, outdoor accessories like rugs, draperies and accent pillows will improve your space, and you may never want to go indoors until autumn.

Outdoor living doesn’t have to be rustic. Include a table, as glass tops are easy to keep clean and resist the elements of our Ohio summers. Older tables can be covered with tablecloths or fabric to breathe new life into them. You can easily change the whole look of your outdoor room by changing fabrics. Don’t be afraid to mimic nature. Go ahead and mix colors and patterns. Add floral, plaids or stripes and accessorize with candles, vases and baskets for keeping sunglasses, coasters and a lighter, of course.

For thousands of years, the campfire has been the premier place for story-telling, family gatherings and even for solitary reflection. A slow-burning fire at the end of the day will fill your backyard with the delightful smells and sounds typically reserved for the campground and rustic living.

There can be a place for elegance around the fire pit, barbecue or outdoor fireplace as well. Who says you can’t bring out the fine china for a meal? Long-stemmed glasses are just as good for herb-infused iced tea or lemonade as they are for wine.

Relax in comfort with friends and family. Enjoy a meal. Enjoy each other. Most of all, keep the home fire burning this summer while you vacation in your own backyard.