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Help manage the pressure by creating an outdoor sanctuary for your family

Posted at 5:16 AM, Jul 14, 2020
and last updated 2020-07-14 14:56:48-04

SUSSEX — The restrictions we are all under can feel suffocating.

A Sussex family is managing the pressure by building their own backyard haven. The outdoor area that includes a pool and backyard kitchen was finished in May.

Jill Reich says this has become an oasis for her three children Heyden, Parker and Molly, “It really helped out our emotional well-being especially when you can’t see family.”

Jill shares her favorite spot to de-stress after teaching has been at the pergola, “They would take their breaks in-between classes I would do Zoom meetings outside. It just added a sense of like serenity for us and we weren’t always cooped up in the house.”

Ken DePratt with KD Poolscapes built this for all of them and encourages families to explore their dreams, “It doesn’t have to be a beautiful setting like this it can be an above ground pool you can get a splash pad.”

He’s getting a flood of inquiries from families across Southeast Wisconsin as this pandemic stretches on.

There are little things the Reich family did that made a difference. Jill loves the flowers, “Even just the pots just don’t cost a lot but added a lot of beauty and calmness to the area.”

Her husband Brett added how the family loves sitting around their new fire table, “It’s something that's inexpensive. Fire it up and you can make your s'mores and marshmallows in there.”

The best part is that this outdoor extension is helping them slowly welcome friends and family over, while still feeling safe.

Here’s your Rebound Rundown:
—Take a good look at your budget
—Start small with pots and plants
—Consider affordable do-it-yourself projects. Click here for ideas.

KD Poolscapes can be reached here.

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