From the National Post:
Sure, you could let your outdoor space turn into no-man’s land during the winter. Or you could happily seize the cold months like a real Canadian with a visit to BonaVista LeisureScapes (bonavistapools.com). The all-things-outdoor specialty shop sells modern swim spas (pictured, starting at $18,995), fire features and more. We’re crushing on the Kettal line. The Barcelona-based company has been around since 1964 and has really grown with the times; check out the elegant and light Kettal Maia dining chair. Other stylish outdoor-furniture lines include California-based Tropitone and Fatboy from the Netherlands; they make big bright beanbags. You may have recognized them from the Vancouver 2010 Olympics; they were set up at the base of the run for mogul skiers to demonstrate the beanbags’ robust, weatherproof nature. Sort of like Canadians.

The Elevated Halo outdoor firepit is handcrafted in smooth high-performance concrete, powered by an approved 40,000 BTU natural gas or propane burner that is manually lit and key valve operated. All Solus fire pits are shipped complete with lava rock topping and are available in 12 standard colours.

After a tremendously busy summer we are grateful for your support and excited as we plan ahead for 2012.

Starting Nov 10th, for 3 weeks only, we are having a Blow Out Sale on all items in our showroom. Savings of up to 50% on a limited selection of Hydropool hot tubs, Kettal, Tropitone, DEDON and Fatboy furniture, Saunacore saunas, 18Karat planters and home decor, Napoleon barbecues, patio heaters and accessories as well as fire features to keep you warm all winter.

We need to make room in our showroom for new products arriving and are thrilled to offer you our very best opportunity to save on your favourite brands for the finest in outdoor living.

Shop now for the best choice and selection – treat that special person on your holiday list with the promise of relaxing evenings spent in your own outdoor oasis. Plan now for a great summer poolside, dining al fresco, sitting on the dock or soaking under the stars catching snowflakes on your tongue!

Best wishes to you and your family from all of us at BonaVista!

To see the complete list of items on sale click here or on the image below.

Available in both the competitive and recreational styles. The Competition WaterOptics (racing-specific 101 Tri-Goggles) feature crisp vision lenses, a low profile fluted frame, and anti-glare for peak performance in a triathlon or open water swimming. The Recreational WaterOptics (922 swim goggles) also feature crisp vision lenses, but are styled for recreational comfort, ideal for even the longest training sessions.

All goggles feature super anti-fog, flat Lens technology, and optional prescription lenses for each eye. What more could you ask for? You will never have to look any further for your ‘favourite’ pair of goggles.

Here is a checklist (adapted from Houzz) on fall chores that can get your outdoor space prepped and ready for winter.

1. Clean and store patio furniture.
2. Clean patio cushions.
3. Clean off the grill of your bbq.
4. Store garden tools and accessories.
5. Trim back bushes and clean up the garden.
6. Rake leaves and tidy up yard.
7. Clean off hammocks and swings and store.
8. Clean and store umbrellas.
9. Power wash your patio.
10. Continue to enjoy your patio even in cooler temperatures by using the bbq, getting a patio heater or sitting around an outdoor fire!

Aaaah, autumn! It’s the perfect time to entertain outdoors — most of the bugs are gone, the sun isn’t scorching even though it’s warm enough to enjoy an afternoon or evening al fresco, and there’s a bounty of good things to serve for an outdoor meal. Because the days are shorter in the autumn, outdoor entertaining in the fall calls for special attention to lighting and temperature.

Outdoor Lighting
The earlier sunset will afford you an ideal opportunity to bathe your outdoor space in evening lights. Use soft light, but use plenty of it. Try dozens of votive candles in jars and glasses to protect the flame from the wind, hurricane lamps, or kerosene lanterns set on low. Create cozy seating areas and equip each with a glowing light source.

Outdoor Heating
The method you’ll use to chase the chill from the night will vary depending on your climate and your outdoor space. The use of outdoor fire creates a wonderful informal party setting. This focal point in the yard is a great place for guests to gather around.

A patio heater is another great way to add warmth to the evening. These units are available in a range of heating powers and prices. Another great idea is to drape attractive throws or quilts on each chair for your guests to wrap around their shoulders to ward off the night air.

Outdoor Decor
Autumn’s colours are deep and rich — russet, crimson, burnt orange and gold. Use these hues repeatedly in tablecloths and settings, flowers, centerpieces, and even the food. Scoop out pumpkins, squash or large apples and fill to use as vases or containers for soup and/or cider. Use orange Chinese lanterns, bright rosehips, stems of red or orange berries, or chilies. Wrap vibrant maple or sumac leaves around votive candle holders or napkin rings. Sunflower heads can be strewn on the tabletop, or left on the flower stalks in a container.

If you’re hosting a fancy sit-down outdoor dinner, use the subtler textures of hydrangea blossoms and colored leaves on a linen tablecloth. Try bringing your indoor dining table outdoors for the evening-it will add unexpected elegance to your setting. Paint gold lettering on small gourds to use as place cards. Grace your table with late-blooming roses in crystal vases.

Whether you hold a harvest hoedown or a stylish sit-down dinner party for eight, fall for outside entertaining this autumn!

Isabelle Grace

Bobby, Lexi, Izzy, Katie