Summer + Texas = HOT: The Dog Days of Summer

Can you believe it? It’s already July!  In Texas, July, for most, means the kind of heat that really saps your energy.  There’s a better name for that kind of summertime heat, and you’ve likely heard of it:  the “Dog Days of Summer.”

This isn’t just a phrase though; it’s an actual time of year that runs from July 3rd to August 11th. It’s thought that this is the time when we get the least rainfall. However the phrase came about, it seems fairly accurate when describing how the weather feels right now! When it comes down to beating the heat during those “Dog Days,” let Bel Furniture help with some great ideas!

When most of us want to cool down, we reach for water, and what better way to reach for that water than spending time at a water park? There are so many options—way too many too list—but we’ll give a few ideas! Why not head to a water park near a Bel Furniture location? We’ve got Splashtown locations in  San Antonio and Houston and Paradise Water Park in Beaumont. Water Parks are a great spot to cool down and spend time as a family.

Houston also has some great features exclusively for kids. Why not take them to one of the many spraygrounds around the city?

Well, now you know what to do when it comes to beating the heat outside, but what about inside? There’s no need to fear! Bel Furniture is here!

Yes, we are in the Dog Days of Summer, for sure, but from July 3^rd to August 15^th, we recognize Air Conditioning Appreciation Days. (Sometimes it feels like Texans should recognize these days all year!) Why not celebrate these days in perfect comfort? We’ve got some amazing deals on recliners and chaise lounges! Take, for instance, this recliner by Simmons. With its casual contemporary look, this high-backed recliner will be your new favorite spot!

Or maybe a chaise lounge is more your speed. No problem there! Check out this beautiful option by Coaster of America! It’s got a gorgeous transitional design and is available in a soft gray velour microfiber.

Well, we’ve got our summer plans! How are you going to spend the rest of your summer?

Bring Summer Indoors

Summer is in full swing, and it’s high time your home decorating reflected the season. Capture the essence of summer by making your home bright and festive. Fortunately, it’s an easy makeover to accomplish--just follow these quick, cheap tips.

Flowers

Nothing will brighten up a home quite like fresh, colorful flowers. No need for big, elaborate bouquets; a few small groups of strategically chosen hues is enough to bring plenty of summer charm to any room. Gather up some lilacs, tulips, daffodils, or orchids and experiment with combinations in a small vase. Place your finished creations on windowsills, counters, tabletops, bookshelves—anywhere that could do with a splash of color. If you don’t have the time, fake flower arrangements will do just as nicely. Even adding some flower embroidered pillows or curtains will go a long way toward bringing the freshness of the season into your home.

  

Bright, citrus colors

What’s more summery than a sunny yellow curtain or a bright orange couch cushion? Adding citrus colors is a great way to quickly spruce up your home. The best part is you don’t have to completely redecorate to achieve a huge impact. Just replace a few cushions, curtains, dishes, towels, or small rugs for a few months. If the colors are vivid enough, your new citrus accents will totally redefine your living space, making it more cheerful and welcoming.

Seashells

Introducing a seashell motif will turn the dull house you’re used to into the exciting, relaxing vacation home you wish you never had to leave. Buy some shell embroidered pillows or shell patterned picture frames. Use large shells as charming, unexpected holders for flowers and candles. You can even scatter all those little shells you collected on your last trip to the beach around a windowsill or bookshelf. It’s your chance to get creative.

Outdoor Decoration

If you’re not spending your evenings outdoors, you’re not getting the most out of your summer. Think about investing a little in your backyard patio. Put some tiki torches around your yard. Place some candles on your patio tables--use citronella candles to keep the mosquitoes away. Add some luminarias for a particularly festive mood. Also, this is a great time to make use of those floral arrangements, seashells, and citrus accents.

No need to splurge or spend all your weekends redecorating; these small additions are all it takes for your home come alive with the vigor and exuberance of summer. You’ll feel like you’re on vacation all season!