Conor Crozier

Take advantage of the return of the lovely weather and the lengthening days to organise a BBQ Hut party with friends. We give you some tips to have a good time: friendly and especially greedy! Get your Barbecue light!

Our advice for a good BBQ Hut Party:

Get organised

A Barbecue Hut Party must be organised a little in advance. 
Prepare a maximum of things in advance to be able to enjoy the evening and the guests. Arrange the meats in a dish and keep them in the refrigerator, cut the vegetables to be grilled, the spices and the utensils… Set up the barbecue (fire starter, charcoal, grill, …). Prepare the skewers. Store the drinks in a cool place and set the table. Don’t forget to prepare a small aperitif to keep your guests waiting, and if it starts raining…who cares!

Prepare the barbecue 

The fire should be lit at least 45 minutes in advance so that the embers are perfect and there are no toxic flames.
Don’t forget safety: bring a bucket of water or a hose to put out the fire in case of fire.

The 5 mistakes not to make

1. Too many flames: flames char food and produce toxic substances. The food is black and has a bitter taste. Avoid it! Choose the two-zone fire technique: a hot part with a lot of coals to sear the meat and apart with fewer coals for gentler cooking.
2. Test the cooking by cutting the meat. The meat loses all its juice and becomes dry. Invest in a good meat thermometer for perfect cooking.
3. Wet the coals to avoid flames. Water only creates steam which then gives an acrid taste to the food. To calm the flames use a handful of coarse salt (or a little sugar to reactivate the embers).
4. Do not extinguish the barbecue with water. To extinguish the barbecue quickly, throw sand on the embers. If you are not in a hurry, let the fire go out by itself.
5. Cooking on a dirty grill. Cleaning is imperative to avoid cooking (and therefore eating) food residues. For this, two techniques: cleaning with hot soapy water and a wire brush; or the combustion process, leaving the empty grill on the fire to remove the residue, then a quick swipe with a wire brush.

Get the right equipment

While the right type of lumpwood charcoal is necessary, it is not enough. You should also bring a few accessories: a large fork and tongs, useful for catching food, and a large knife. Equip yourself like a chef: the essential cook’s apron and a pair of cooking gloves. Remember to keep a clean, empty dish nearby to clear and serve cooked food.

Marinades and sauces

For meats that are more melting and moist, don’t hesitate to marinate them a few hours before cooking. The base is olive oil you can then add lemon, honey, or yogurt. You can try coca-cola, maple syrup, or apple juice. For the fish, be careful not to leave it too long in a lemon marinade because the acidity of the lemon “burns” the flesh of the fish (30 minutes maximum). 
If you want to add sauce (barbecue sauce type for example), add it only during the last 5 minutes of cooking with a brush and let it penetrate the meat over low heat.

Cooking 

The food should be on a clean grill 15/20 cm from the coals.
Sear red meats on very red embers and salt the meat only once on the plate, otherwise, you will dry it out.
White meats, fish, and vegetables are cooked on a lower heat and for a longer time.
Apart from the “classic” sausages, you can offer your guests other things: hamburger, chicken wings, sardines, shrimps, camembert or feta cheese, and for dessert a fruit or marshmallow skewer, banana or pineapple spit.

Time to get your BBQ on!

For more information on BBQ Huts

For more tips about barbecuing is additional blog posts

Are you tired of feeling exhausted and stressed out all the time? Do you want to improve your physical and mental health? If yes, then consider trying saunas. However, there are two main types of saunas: wood-fired and electric. Each has unique features, benefits, and drawbacks; choosing the right one could save your experience. Therefore, before purchasing, you must decide which type of sauna you want, “wood fired vs electric sauna.”

Wood fired saunas are traditional and offer a more authentic and rustic experience. It uses wood to heat the sauna, which is often more intense and long-lasting than electric saunas. But, they require more maintenance and are harder to control the temperature. In contrast, electric saunas are more modern and convenient.

Now that you know the basic differences between wood fired and electric saunas, which should you choose? But before you decide, there are a few more factors to consider. For example, did you know that each type of sauna has unique health benefits? Also, there are different wood fired and electric saunas, each with features and options. To learn more, keep reading!

Which One Is Better – Wood fired Sauna Vs Electric Sauna?

Wood fired or electric, which is the better way to enjoy a sauna? It is a question that often divides sauna enthusiasts. In this comparison, we’ll explore each method’s pros and cons based on the points defending electrically heated and wood heated sauna stoves.

Ease Of Use And Installation:

Electrical sauna stoves are undeniably easier to use and install. With a simple programming device or switch, your sauna can run instantly. Besides, installation is a breeze without the need for a chimney stack. On the other hand, wood-fired sauna stoves require more effort to set up and maintain. You need to collect the wood, light the fire, and ensure that it stays burning throughout your sauna session. Hence, heating the sauna with wood can be more tiresome part of the experience. So, if you purchase a sauna for commercial purposes, the electric sauna is better.

Natural And Authentic Heating:

The natural and authentic feel of a wood fired sauna is undeniable. The crackle of the fire, the smell of burning wood, and the heat emanating from the rocks add to the ambiance of the sauna. It’s the quintessential Scandinavian cabin vibe that many people crave.

Electric saunas lack this natural feel. Still, it provides consistent heat that is easily controllable. For some, the convenience and predictability of electric heat outweigh the appeal of natural heating methods.

Encouraging Outdoor Activities And Escape:

For those who enjoy the outdoors, a wood fired sauna can be an essential part of their escape. Gathering firewood, starting the fire, and waiting for the sauna to heat up can all be part of the experience. It’s an opportunity to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature.

Venting and air quality

Wood fired saunas have better natural ventilation and can create negative ions, which can help improve air quality. The wood burning process generates negative ions, positively affecting respiratory health and overall well-being. Electrically heated saunas don’t produce negative ions, but they also don’t produce smoke or fumes that can harm air quality.

Comfort And Relaxation

Both wood fired and electric saunas can provide a relaxing and comfortable experience. However, wood fired saunas produce more radiant heat. Thus, it can lead to a deeper sense of relaxation. At the same time, modern saunas provide consistent and controlled heat, which can be comfortable for some. Therefore, some people may find an electrically heated sauna lacking the unique sensations that wood-fired saunas offer.

Cost:

Electric saunas tend to be more expensive up front, with the cost of the sauna stove and installation. Though they use electricity, there are more energy-efficient variants, which can save money on operating costs over time. In addition, electric saunas don’t require the ongoing cost of purchasing firewood.

Comparatively, wood-fired saunas are less expensive upfront than electric saunas, as the stove cost is generally lower. However, the ongoing cost of purchasing firewood can add up, especially if you live in an area where firewood is expensive or difficult to find. Besides, wood-fired saunas require more maintenance, which can also add to the overall cost over time.

Health Benefits Of Wood-Fired Sauna Vs Electric Sauna:

Both wood fired and electric saunas can provide health benefits, but some differences exist. Wood fired saunas can produce negative ions, positively affecting respiratory health and overall well-being. In addition, the natural heating method of a wood fired sauna can provide a more authentic and grounding experience.

Moreover, the smoke and fumes from burning wood can harm air quality, which may not be ideal for those with respiratory issues. On the other hand, electric saunas don’t produce negative ions but don’t produce smoke or fumes that can harm air quality. They can provide consistent and controlled heat, which can be beneficial for relaxation and stress relief.

Wood Fired vs Electric Sauna – Final Words:

In the end, the choice between a wood-fired sauna and an electric sauna is a personal one. Some may prefer the natural, authentic feel of a wood fired sauna. At the same time, others may appreciate the convenience and ease of an electric sauna. And let’s be real. Some of us just love the smell of burning wood, while others prefer the aroma of essential oils in an electric sauna. Whether you’re a rugged lumberjack type or a modern tech guru, there’s a sauna for you. So go ahead and sweat it out. Remember, it’s not about the stove. It’s about the journey to relaxation and rejuvenation.

Are you looking to stay ahead of the curve with home office gadgets in 2023? With technology advancing more quickly than ever, it’s essential to keep up with the latest trends in this fast-paced world. So, what could be the best home office gadget trends for 2023?

From Rocketbook Smart Reusable Notebooks to DJI Mini 3 Pro drones, the 2023 home office gadget trends are perfect for any tech-savvy professional. Enjoy the convenience of energy-saving Arc Mice, wireless headphone stands, and mug2s that keep your drinks at the perfect temperature. Make taking notes easier with Kindle Scribe and enjoy enhanced noise cancellation with Airpods Pro 2.

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the hottest home office gadget trends for 2023 to get you started on the right foot! Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or just looking to make your workspace more efficient, there’s sure to be something here to suit your needs. So, let’s dive in!

Best Home Office Gadget Trends

The distinction between enjoying the Work from Home lifestyle and becoming completely disenchanted with it can be made by having a functional home office setup. If you’ve put it off up until now, now is the moment to make an investment in your workplace because it’s obvious that the mixed work strategy will play a significant role in modern enterprises moving forward. To make your workday in 2023 smoother, more pleasant, and more organized, upgrade your desk accessories.

Perhaps you operate from a designated office space, a simple desk, or a kitchen counter, or are confined to your bedroom? Whatever your circumstance, it’s still worthwhile to get specific goods that will improve your ability to focus on your work. There is a huge amount of useful home-working tools available, and we’ve compiled a few of the best essentials we’d suggest below, including laptop stands, improved webcams, and noise-canceling headphones.

1.    Rocketbook smart reusable notebook:

This reusable notepad is easy to clean, making it a sustainable method of taking notes. Simply sweep away your work with a moist towel after writing as usual with a Pilot Frixion erasable pen. So, it functions like a board but seems like a pencil and paper. There is also an app that allows you to scan and keep your notes so you may send and preserve your work.

2.    2 in 1 headphone stand with wireless charger:

A nice headphone stand is a wise investment if you intend to keep your headphones secure and your desk looking a certain way. With a lovely wooden and metal stand and a tiny tray for your extras, this one from the company Avantree is a great option.

3.    Microsoft Arc Bluetooth wireless mouse:

Have you ever considered folding your computer mouse into a pocket? You’re in luck, though. Microsoft created this useful workplace tool with an ease of implementation that stiffens out for easy packing. You can conserve energy when the device is not in use by flattening it, which turns it off. When you put the mouse back in your palm in the curved shape, it awakens. Really cool. As a result, the Arc adapts to fit your hand, making it a really unique office tool.

4.    Ember mug 2:

You would be justified in supposing that this somewhat ordinary-looking mug possesses magical abilities, given its high price. The Ember Mug2 is a smart mug that allows you to select a precise sipping temperature by using Ember app on your smartphone and keeps your coffee hot. The app also alerts you when your mug reaches the temperature you like. Therefore, there should be fewer bitter-cold cups of tea and burned tongues at the office.

5.    Beeline Velo 2:

Trying to negotiate automobiles, pedestrians, and roads while also trying to follow your location on your phone with a befuddled navigation system while trying to get through a town on a motorbike is a stress like no other. Unfortunately, the Velo 2 cycling monitor cannot make vehicles and individuals out of your way, but it does facilitate navigation.

This tiny, round device fastens to your bicycle and provides you with simple, real-world journey-tracking-based instructions. You may also keep track of the time, duration, and speed. It even resists weather!

6.    Apple Airpods Gen 2:

A pair of Airpods is definitely the most apparent option for new in-ear buds for Apple aficionados. If you’re seeking that, the most recent and best alternative is the Apple Airpod 2nd edition. They cost more than the exorbitantly pricey AirPods Max, but they offer Apple’s best active noise cancellation feature and have a longer battery life—up to 6 hours—on a single battery charge.

The upgraded H2 chip is this’s a major advancement. This aids in noise cancellation and allows the headsets to alter tunes in real time for proper high vocals and powerful bass.

7.    Amazon Kindle Scribe:

Amazon’s original Kindle Tablet has achieved astronomical success, but it wasn’t until recently that they incorporated a powerful pen feature. Their latest development – Kindle Scribe – enables you to take notes, create annotations and perform various tasks with ease on your books!

Furthermore, the state-of-theart display technology ensures smooth reading even in direct sunlight. To top it off, there is an adjustable warm light option available so that you can rest comfortably before bedtime too!

8.    DJI Mini 3 Pro:

Every year, DJI’s Miniseries models shrink while gaining power, packing premium features into a tiny drone that you can take in your bag. However, all those advancements come at an eye-watering cost and the fear that you may lose your financial stability if you damage the gadget is growing.

Advanced obstacle avoidance capabilities, a rotating lens for filming portraits or vistas, 4K video, sophisticated flying capabilities like computerized monitoring, and the ability to track a target are all characteristics it offers. This drone feels ideal for perfect for beginners, vacationers, or really anyone searching for a light, high-tech drone despite its high price.

Conclusion!

We live in a period of amazing technological advancement, portable smart devices, and brilliant tools. Some pretty fascinating gadgets are a result of all these technological advancements. Here, we’ve highlighted a few of our favorite things that will be available in the upcoming year. They inform our readers of the innovations to come. So, without further ado, here are the top products we can anticipate in 2023.

Hi, I’m Diane, from Zest 4 Organic Food Growing. I help people who want the best for their family grow delicious, high quality organic vegetables, fruits and herbs – simple and easy, even without a garden!

To do this, I use my lifelong knowledge and experience in organic food growing to offer you a very personal and tailored online service. First we find out what you want to grow. Then we discover your particular challenges and opportunities. We’ll create a plan, and then I’ll guide you step-by-step through choosing the equipment you really need, to sowing the crops your family will actually want to eat, to successfully harvesting your delicious, fresh organic food – much faster and easier than you ever imagined.

We all know that we need to eat healthier by eating more fresh fruit and vegetables. But that’s getting harder to do as life gets busier, growing space is scarce and the cost of living skyrockets. Inflation is already at a 40-year high and the average grocery bill in the UK has risen by £380 in the last year. And as we know, the cheapest ready meals are some of the unhealthiest foods we can eat.

With my proven step-by-step methods, I’ll help you give your family the best nutritious food possible, save money and give you back your precious time to spend with your family!

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Outdoor classrooms are becoming more popular as educators and parents realize the importance of getting students outside. Not only does this provide a change of scenery, but it has been proven to improve student and teacher health! In this blog post, we will discuss some of the benefits of an outdoor classroom and how you can start using one in your own school or district.

1. Improved Concentration and Attention:

Students who attend classes in the great outdoors have been found to benefit from improved concentration and focus in the classroom. Interestingly, it is thought that this phenomenon occurs due to something known as “attention restoration theory”, which states that natural environments provide something of a mental respite from otherwise hectic lives. In modern cities, there is often limited time for students to take a break and appreciate the natural world simply. By attending classes outside, however, learners can take advantage of improved attention spans, increased engagement, and better long-term academic results. Next time you consider studying during the summer recess, why not go out into nature to make the most of your learning experience?

2. Improved Physical Health:

Outdoor classrooms provide students with an opportunity to get moving throughout the day. Unlike traditional classrooms, there is a greater emphasis on movement and getting physical activity. This can lead to improved overall health among students, as well as better mental health outcomes due to reduced stress levels. Additionally, outdoor classrooms offer educators the chance to incorporate physical activities into their lessons; this allows them to teach with real-world applications and increases student engagement.

3. Improved Mental Health:

Formulating healthy coping strategies to handle mental stress is becoming increasingly crucial in our everyday routine. One beneficial activity that teachers and students can both take advantage of is spending extended periods of time outdoors. Research has demonstrated the positive effects on mental health from outdoor activities; exposure to natural elements such as sunlight, fresh air, and the sounds of nature was found to have a significant calming effect on stress and anxiety symptoms while improving overall mood compared to traditional classroom environments. Teachers, in particular, have benefited from taking a break and recharging their minds and bodies with extended outdoor activities; they are then better able to refresh their teaching style with improved mental well-being.

4. Improved Socialization Skills:

Outdoor classrooms also allow students to socialize in a safe, supervised environment. This helps to build important interpersonal skills such as communication and collaboration, which are essential for success in the modern world. Furthermore, outdoor classrooms create a more relaxed atmosphere than traditional classrooms; this leads to improved student-teacher relationships, which can significantly impact overall academic success.

5. Improved Engagement:

Combining improved concentration and physical activity with increased socialization helps create a learning environment in which students are more engaged and motivated. Research has demonstrated that outdoor classrooms offer learners an immersive experience, as they are able to learn through direct interaction with the elements around them. Not only does this provide teachers with an opportunity to incorporate real-world applications into lessons, but it also gives students a chance to explore and discover new interests.

Tips for Implementing Outdoor Classrooms:

We have some great tips to get you started implementing outdoor classrooms in your school:

1. Start small

Establishing outdoor classrooms in a school takes time and effort, and it is important to be judicious as you start to incorporate them into the school curriculum. A great way to begin your outdoor classroom journey is to start with one or two classes, allowing students and teachers to become accustomed to the format. This provides an opportunity for feedback, allowing educators to make any adjustments needed before introducing outdoor learning spaces throughout the entire school. With thoughtful implementation, outdoor classrooms can be a great addition for any school wanting to give their students a more varied experience!

2. Follow safety guidelines

Safety is paramount when it comes to outdoor classrooms. Teachers should take the necessary precautions to ensure that their students are safe at all times. This includes making sure that students adhere to school rules. Such as not running or playing in hazardous areas. Proper supervision during class time, and providing appropriate clothing for the weather is paramount.

3. Use technology

Technology is a great way to incorporate outdoor learning into the classroom. Many apps and websites offer interactive activities, videos, and other resources to help teachers bring the outdoors into the classroom. This can be especially useful for students who may not have access to outdoor classrooms due to space or financial constraints.

4. Getting the community involved

The success of outdoor classrooms is inextricably linked to their support from the broader community. It is important to involve students, parents, and local businesses in order to ensure that the experience is as beneficial as possible. This could include having volunteers help prepare materials, provide activities, or offer incentives for students who complete outdoor classroom activities.

5. Celebrate successes

It is important to celebrate the successes that come from outdoor classrooms. Take the time to recognize student achievements, teacher efforts, and community involvement. This will help ensure that outdoor classrooms continue to be an integral part of the school experience.

6. Make it fun

Outdoor classrooms should be enjoyable for everyone involved! Make sure to incorporate activities that are engaging and stimulating for students and plenty of breaks throughout the day. This will help keep students motivated and excited about learning in an outdoor setting.

Outdoor Classrooms – Conclusion

By implementing outdoor classrooms, schools can give their students and teachers the opportunity to reap the benefits of learning in nature. Outdoor classrooms foster engagement and exploration and provide physical activity and increased socialization. With the thoughtful implementation and community involvement, these spaces can be a great addition to any school looking to provide its learners with an exceptional education experience.

If you’re looking for a unique party venue, look no further than your log cabin! Log cabins make the perfect party spot for all kinds of events, from weddings and birthdays to corporate retreats and holiday gatherings. By decorating your cabin in the right way, you can create an unforgettable party atmosphere. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips for decorating your log cabin for a party. Keep reading to learn more!

1. Think About the Theme of your Party:

Hosting a party in your log cabin can be an amazing experience, but it’s important to ensure the decor reflects your event’s theme. First, focus on choosing colors that you think will best match the theme and give your guests the feeling that they have truly stepped into another world. 

Make sure there is enough light, so people feel comfortable moving around and mingling – nothing kills a party atmosphere like feeling cramped or too dimly lit! Finally, making sure there are plenty of festive accents scattered throughout, such as candles in warm hues or eye-catching wall art, will ensure the environment of your log cabin is welcoming and enjoyable for everyone. 

Decorating for a party isn’t limited to physical objects either; don’t forget to create an inviting atmosphere with purposeful music choices and unforgettable hospitality!

2. Add Ambiance with Lighting and Music:

Nothing sets the mood of a party quite like proper lighting and music! Make sure to choose lighting that will match your theme and create an ambiance that complements your log cabin’s warm, rustic feel. Consider opting for dimmable light fixtures or soft twinkle lights strung around the walls to give your guests an inviting atmosphere they won’t soon forget. 

Make sure to choose music that fits the occasion – from upbeat pop tunes for a birthday bash to soothing instrumentals for corporate retreats; you can create an unforgettable atmosphere with just the right combination of lighting and music.

3. Let Nature be Your Guide:

Incorporating natural elements into your party decor is a great way to give your log cabin that special touch. Consider using natural materials like wood, stone, and plants to create decorations that will bring the outdoors inside. Use branches or vines as a backdrop for pictures or hang fairy lights from trees to create a magical feel. 

You can also use leaves, bark, and stones for centerpieces on tables or line the walkway with potted plants to give guests an inviting entrance. Alternatively, try incorporating nature into your activities – animals like goats or sheep can make great party guests!

4. DIY Decorations:

Crafting your own decorations can significantly enhance the atmosphere of any party. With just a few basic supplies, plus your imagination, you can construct beautiful centerpieces, colorful banners, and wall hangings that suit the occasion perfectly. 

When making decorations for outdoor events, keep weather resistance in mind: opt for materials like canvas or burlap instead of tissue paper; use string lights over candles to avoid accidents; and invest in some extra durable glue to ensure everything stays in place through rain, wind, and sunlight. With a little creativity and attention to detail, you’ll be sure to leave your guests impressed with your memorable decorations!

5. Use Light Color Rugs and Pillows:

Adding light-colored rugs and pillows to your log cabin will help brighten up the room and create a cozy atmosphere. You can go for subtle hues or bold, vibrant colors – whatever fits the occasion best! 

Be sure to choose durable and weather-resistant fabrics; this way, they’ll withstand the elements and stay beautiful even after a few hours of partying. Rugs and pillows are also great tools for creating different seating areas in your log cabin, allowing guests to mingle or relax without moving furniture around.

6. Utilize the Fireplace:

A fireplace is a great way to add to the rustic charm of any log cabin. If you have a working fireplace, use it as a centerpiece for your party, creating an inviting atmosphere that will draw people in and keep them warm at the same time. 

Consider placing candles or fairy lights on each side of the fireplace to enhance its beauty, or try hanging a few decorative pieces on the mantel. For extra comfort, you can place cozy blankets and pillows around the fireplace area so guests can relax in front of the warm flames.

7. Invest in Quality Furniture:

Choosing quality furniture for your log cabin is key when it comes to hosting a party. Investing in sturdy and comfortable furniture will provide your guests with a place to sit or rest and make cleaning up after the event much easier. 

You can also look for pieces that fit the aesthetic of your log cabin’s interior – from rustic couches and armchairs made from natural materials to modern pieces with subtle wood accents. Choosing the right furniture for your log cabin can create an inviting atmosphere that will make your guests feel comfortable and at home.

8. Incorporate Music and Games:

Adding music and games to your log cabin party can make it even more enjoyable. Use wood instruments to create a unique atmosphere, or opt for modern sound systems that will fill the room with energy-boosting tunes. 

You can also set up outdoor activities like horseshoes or badminton for guests to enjoy or incorporate board games and card decks for a more laid-back atmosphere. Incorporating music and games into your log cabin party can keep the energy up and make it even more memorable.

9. Use Mirrors and Glassware:

Mirrors and glassware can be used to add a touch of sophistication and glamour to your log cabin party. Hang a few mirrors on the walls to open up the space and create an illusion of larger rooms, or place elegant candle holders and vases throughout the area to give it a more glamorous feel. For extra sparkle, scatter decorative glass beads or confetti around the room for a touch of festive flair.

Conclusion:

Decorating your log cabin for a party can be both fun and rewarding. With the right decorations, furniture, and accessories, you can create a beautiful atmosphere that is sure to impress your guests. 

Remember to keep weather resistance in mind when choosing materials for your decorations, and use light-colored rugs and pillows to brighten up the space. Take advantage of any fireplaces you may have and add elements of music and games to keep the party going. 

Finally, don’t forget to use mirrors and glassware for a touch of sophistication and glamour! With these tips in mind, you can make your log cabin the perfect venue for parties and gatherings.