Your backyard could use an upgrade

There’s a three-day weekend on the horizon. Memorial Day marks the unofficial start to summer in many parts of the country, and we’re gearing up for it with a celebration right in our own backyards. Before we can crack open a cold one and play some ‘90s country, we need to get everything in order. 

To me, the start of a great summer happens with a really great meal. Before you fire up the grill, make sure you give it a good clean so that you have great burgers and less of… whatever is lingering from last grill season. If you need a new one, we’ve tried all kinds of grills and found the very best grills of every variety. For a post-barbecue treat, whip up some ice cream—our favorite ice cream maker, the Ninja Creami, is great for customizing a sweet treat to share.

Sprucing up your outdoor space? Use our favorite outdoor smart tech. We’ve tested solar lights, outdoor smart plugs, security cameras, smart sprinkler systems and more to take your backyard to the next level. Since you’ll have some time on your hands, take up a new hobby, like birding. The best smart bird feeder we’ve tried, the Netvue Birdfy Feeder, records each of its visitors and identifies them so you can learn a bit more about them as they visit.

There’s plenty more to do, and we’ve got the guides to help you do it. Explore lawn care tips, expert-approved patio furniture, summer suncare and more at Reviewed. 

If you need me, I’ll be outside with a hot dog and a good book. 

Enjoy your Monday,

— Sara Beth Bolin, Newsletter Writer

Reviewed, part of the USA Today Network