your DIY projects can go a lot easier with some simple build plans. Having measurements and scale can help you purchase the right amount of lumber, and most plans also have suggested hardware as well.

For days when the playground seems like a trek too far ... a little about physics while firing projectiles into the sky? Build them a water rocket. Once your kids have tackled basic pedaling ...

For the past three winters, Steve Falk of Aurora, Ontario, has transformed his backyard into an Olympic playground ... along and up and down the curves to build walls and structure," he says.