
I've always yearned for a porch.
For years I dreamed of a little nook, a quiet, cozy place to enjoy breezes and nature's sights and sounds without finding myself sun-bathed or insect-infested.
A haven of sorts.
A shielded room to enjoy simple meals. Comfy furniture in which one could curl up mid-afternoon, eyes closed or with a good book in hand.
This was the year my dream came true. One board, one screened window at a time. With a little help from his friends who had all kinds of creative ideas which morphed the space overlooking the woods into something I hadn't even imagined.
When dreamers and builders put their heads together and throw all kinds of unexpected options on the table ... well, that's when imaginations are sparked and plans sketched on paper take wing.
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It's been said that 'if you build it, they will come.'
Family and friends are in and out for hot dog roasts. A taco bar lunch. Meatballs that simmered all day in the crockpot. A buffet of very random leftovers culled from the fridge. Strawberry shortcakes with biscuits straight from the oven, adorned with whipped cream and candles. Mugs of steaming coffee or hot chocolate sloshing over the brim. Gooey s'mores offered by sticky little hands.
Or simply tall glasses jammed with ice, water, and lemon wedges.
But most days it's very very still. We linger over simple meals while soaking in the breezes, the solitude, the peace. We shoo persistent squirrels away from the feeders while grateful birds swoop from tree to feeder and back again. We putter or nap. I read, feet tucked under the quilt. We sort through issues monumental and not-so-much. We dream of big things to come for those we love.
And often give thanks for unexpected blessings right out loud where they belong.
Knowing that soon it'll be time to fling open the doors again. Welcome those who have come. Put our feet up and eat. Laugh. Play. Catch-up on life's escapades. Head outside to the rusty fire pit and watch the breezes whip the flames into a frenzy.
And cobble together new memories.
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day 2
porch
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#MyCozySummerHome
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What a great addition, Linda. I love it!
ReplyDeleteLois, thanks!
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Truly lovely!!
ReplyDeleteMaybe we'll have that long-awaited reunion here some day!
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What a nice space! I love the sign.
ReplyDeleteBarbara, yes! A surprise gift from new friends.
DeleteSo very grateful ...
I LOVE your porch, Linda. I think I would be in there a majority of the time! :) I love the sign, too, and all the family memories. :) Blessings, love, and hugs to you!
ReplyDeleteIt's so fun to have you here, Trudy! I know you're taking a blogging break this summer ... are enjoying being unplugged?
DeleteI love the pictures of the guys, all sleeping! It is a lovely space and it was wonderful to see it used the way you thought it would be - filled with family and laughter. Enjoy!
ReplyDeleteYeah, Tim wasn't real wild about a couple of the shots - like him standing around while the two other guys were working. {It was probably the only time he stood still all day!}
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I wonder if the sons will discover that they're on the world wide web.
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Oh, Linda, your porch is divine! If I'm ever up your way, I could think of nothing better than invite myself over to set a spell. I do love our deck, my retreat in all seasons, but not being screened in has its setbacks.
ReplyDeleteEnjoy the best that summer has to offer on your porch!
Be sure to let me know if you're ever on the Cape, Martha. I would love to meet you in person.
DeleteAnd yes, our old deck worked ok until a granddaughter got a ginormous splinter in her foot last summer - it took hours to get out and I put my foot down {no pun intended!}
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I AM ENVIOUS!!!! Love your porch and thrilled I got to enjoy it
ReplyDeleteIt meant so much to me to have you here again. I can't begin to tell you.
DeleteMissing you already. Maybe you'll stay longer next time?
xo
Oh how wonderful! It looks amazing. I'm so glad we get to see the chronicle of its development. We'll be texting to find out about the game the kiddos are playing!
ReplyDeleteWe missed you guys ... it wasn't the same without you there.
DeleteMaybe next time?
Check with TommyB about the game ...
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He already gave us the lowdown and it's on our Amazon wish list! Next time sounds extraordinary.
DeleteSee you soon ...
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Wow - it turned out fabulous! Here's to dreams fulfilled! Good for you!
ReplyDeleteI'm grateful, yes ...
DeleteWish you lived a bit closer so you could teach me about the birds that are right out the windows, June. I'm a slow learner, but it would be fun!
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