LIVING LIVING

Creating ambience is an essential part of outdoor living. It’s the subtle glow of the string lights hanging above your outdoor sofa and the warmth coming off the fire pit at your feet. It’s what keeps your night memorable and gives a feeling of coziness to your patio. An outdoor space isn’t complete without a good set of string lights. With the option of different bulb shapes and colors, the possibilities are endless.

If your space can accommodate a firepit, then it’s a must add for your deck or patio. It gives your family and friends a place to gather and creates a focal point for your backyard. Have kids with a sweet tooth? Check out the s’mores fire pit from Target (pictured below) for an easy way to make a sweet treat.

One of the best parts of finalizing your outdoor space is selecting your favorite outdoor furniture and accessories. Opt for maximum comfort and don’t be afraid to bring some personality into the pieces you select. There’s no wrong decision if you decide to add a splash of color or keep things neutral with your textiles. For optimal comfort, don’t forget to add a canopy to protect you from mosquitos and other insects while you’re lounging outdoors. Creating a comfortable living space on your deck or patio will only entice you and your family to spend more time outdoors.

Join GBU Life on an epic trek across the seven continents while earning milestones and competition gems along the way. The duration for each challenge (continent you hike) is uniquely based on the average length of time it would take to hike each trail. Complete all seven challenges and receive a $20 Amazon gift card.

Sign up for the first continent challenge in the Optimity Challenge tab on August 1. Not an Optimity user yet? Sign up at inside.gbu.org/optimity.

The Fimmvörðuháls (FIMM-vor-thoo-hauls)

Trail in Iceland spans 15.5 miles (25 km) and takes hikers through stunning landscapes, including lava fields, glaciers, valleys and waterfalls.

Take on the challenge of climbing Japan's highest mountain, Mount Fuji, at 12,389 feet (3,775 m)! Join thousands of hikers each year to witness the stunning sunrise from the summit. Complete the three-day, eight-mile (13 km) trail and earn gems at each milestone, plus a bonus for completing the climb!

Take on the famous 27-mile (43 km) Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in South America's Peru. Imagine the stunnin g views of the Andes, archaeological sites and the iconic ruins. Put yourself to the test; complete the eight-day challenge and earn milestones along the way!

The Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim trail is a 23.5mile (38 km) trek from the North to South Rim in Arizona. The trail offers breathtaking views of the canyon and requires high fitness levels due to steep terrains and extreme temperatures. If you're ready to take on the conditions of this challenge, give it a go for seven days and earn bonus gems!

The Observation Hill Loop trail is a scenic, 2.5-mile (4 km) trail loop in Ross Island, Antarctica. Hike to the top of Observation Hill for stunning panoramic views of the area, including Mount Erebus and McMurdo Sound. Try this chilly, one-day challenge and earn bonus gems!

Hinchinbrook Island in Queensland, Australia, is a rugged paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The 18.5-mile (30 km) Thorsborne trail offers breathtaking coastal views, dense rainforests and pristine b eaches. Take on the challenge for six days and earn bonus gems!

The Otter Trail in South Africa is a spectacular, nine-day, 28-mile (45 km) hike along the Garden Route coastline. This challenging trail winds through forests, cliffs and beaches, offering breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. Take on the Otter Trail and earn bonus gems once you complete the challenge!

Gift cards will be issued to everyone who completed the Summer Trail Challenges Part One once the last challenge (Africa's Otter Trail) wraps up in July.