My Sunny New Back Deck
Mother nature decided to do a little redecorating outside my home last week. Here's how she got started:

We were alerted to her plan with a loud thump, followed by two more loud thumps. This oak fell over, then hit another, then hit another. In all we lost three oaks, and the third landed on the back of our fence. Oh the joys of those summer rainstorms.
Anyhoo, as we get estimates on the damage and go back and forth with our insurance company, we have a new decorating...um...twist you could say. What was once a very shaded little deck on the back of our house now gets PLENTY of sunlight. As I surveyed the mess that is now my backyard, I couldn't help but think that my deck could use some new touches. (Just trying to make the best of it!)
So I went to Target and bought a nice, canvas and wood umbrella. I checked out the Target Web site today and noticed that they are offering free shipping on many of their patio umbrellas--check it out here. I also checked out HGTV for some ideas, and I found an article that offers some basic tips for decorating your deck. I also really like this country-style porch and I'm thinking of using some of the ideas for my newly-sunny area.
Now I'm off to find some waterproof cushions for my outdoor seating--I'll let you know what I find.

