Outdoor Living & Recreation:

• Backpacking Basics
  Whenever you head into the woods for longer than a few hours, you’ll need to gear up. Base your equipment selection on the season, region and length of your trip. Don't hit the trail – even for a day hike – without these items.
• Beginners Guide to Kayaking
  Considering picking up kayaking as a hobby? Make sure you have everything you need for the adventure that lies ahead. Don’t leave home without these essential items. Explore the world!
• Boat Safety Checklist
  Are you making sure you have everything you need on board your boat in case of an emergency? This simple checklist list will prepare you for the dangers of the high seas! Don’t leave the dock without these essential items
• Campfire Cooking for Kids
  There is nothing like spending time with your family in the great outdoors. Camping trips build memories that last a lifetime. Let your children learn the safe and fun way to cook delicious foods over the campfire with these great tips!
• Campfire Cooking Tools
  Nothing beats a meal over the fire. With the right tools to help you cook a great meal, you'll be eating better than you do at home on your next camping trip. The only thing that makes it better is that you're spending time outdoors with your family.
• Camping In Your Own Backyard
  If you and your family love camping, but hate the hassle a trip to the great outdoors can be, then keep reading! A backyard camp out can be just as enjoyable as a trip to a campground. Plus, you don't have to worry about packing or planning weeks ahead of time for your adventure. And if it rains, just head inside to the comfort of your home, what could be better?
• Choosing a Bird House
  Bird watching is continually growing in popularity. Increase your chances of seeing birds in your backyard by putting up bird houses. See the reasons behind which bird house to choose with these helpful hints from Don & Lillian Stokes of Stokes Select
• Choosing a Hummingbird Feeder
  There are several factors you should consider when looking to buy and install a hummingbird feeder. Check out these tips from Don and Lillian Stokes from Stokes Select Products!
• Choosing the Perfect Kayak
  Kayaking and canoeing can lead to all types of different adventures. Whether you’re braving the intensity of the whitewater rapids or taking a leisurely stroll across the lake, make sure you have the right vessel for the job.
• Construct Your Own Backyard Water Park
  There’s no need to travel to an overpriced water park this summer. Find affordable ways to beat the heat in your own backyard. From water balloons to slip n’ slide, we’ve got everything you need for a wet and wild time!
• Fun Sidewalk Chalk Games and Activities For Your Kids
  Here is a list of fun games and activities that you can play with you child using side walk chalk this summer!
• Hassle Free Camping Checklist
  Taking your family camping can be a great way to spend time together and simply enjoy the great outdoors. Sometimes though, preparing for camping can be more of a hassle than anyone ever anticipated. With a little help from Blain's Farm & Fleet and Coleman you're sure to be headed in the right direction.
• How to Play Four Square
  Remember back to when you were a kid on the playground by teaching your kids this fun and easy game that can be played practically anywhere!
• Keep Squirrels off Your Bird Feeders
  Squirrels can be furry thieves at bird feeders, especially when the weather gets colder and food becomes more scarce. Thanks to Blain's Farm & Fleet and one of our vendors, Stokes Select, we've provided some easy steps you can take and products to purchase that help keep these critters off the feeders. Leaving the bird seed for the feathered friends instead!
• Pitching the Perfect Tent
  When you're ready to camp, you're ready to relax. Setting up a tent can be difficult, but following these simple steps from Coleman can help make you a pro in no time.
• Providing Food For Your Birds
  Learn how easy it is to provide a source of food for your feathered friends in this final step in our series about how to create a "backyard wild."
• Providing Shelter For Your Birds
  Welcome nature’s feathered friends into your yard with charming birdhouses and natural landscaping. Our team will teach you how easy it is to build a birdhouse and provide you with tips for adding additional bird shelter through your own landscaping. With just a few of the proper tools from Blain’s Farm & Fleet, your yard will become a natural habitat for all kinds of birds.
• Select the Perfect Life Jacket
  It is a requirement to have enough life jackets on-board for everybody on your boat. Make sure you have the right life vests for the right people and activities. Have a safe and enjoyable time on the water!
• Summer Olympic Games for Kids
  Do you get caught up in Olympic Fever? Chances are, your kids do too. Why not let them in on the fun and set up your own Olympic games this year. Set up is easy and the hours of fun will be endless.
• Summer Project: Kids Homemade Lemonade Stand
  "I'm Bored!" Those are the famous words of every child at some point during their Summer Break. Find the cures for Summer boredom that don't involve a TV, computer or video game with great projects that will keep them busy and let them learn something. This DIY Lemonade Stand is sure to help your child learn skills about money as well as have fun doing it!
• Tips for Attracting Bluebirds
  Whether you live in the city or the country, sites and sounds of a bluebird near your home can be a real treat. Most homeowners however, have a hard time attracting the elusive bluebird to their yard. Luckily, Don and Lillian Stokes of Stokes Select have shared with us their insider tips and tricks for attracting bluebirds.
• Tips For Proper Bird Seed Storage
  Don & Lillian Stokes of Stokes Select products have been avid bird watchers for years. Here, they share their tips for storing bird seed properly to ensure it's always ready when you're feathered friends are hungry!
• What To Bring On A Picnic This Summer
  Its summer, time for fun in the sun with your family! If you’re looking to enjoy a relaxing day and getting away from long lines and crowds then a picnic lunch in a quiet park is a great idea! Check out this article on some tips on what to bring along for a summer picnic lunch today!