Deck Saga

Now that GG is home, we can finally show pictures of the new deck space in our back yard.  I didn't want to show it until she got home, because it was sort of a surprise for her, as it's intended specifically for her Sweet 16 coming up in December.  Not that it won't be used in the meantime, and for years after, but her party is what started all of this.

So here's what the backyard space looks like now.

Please excuse the mess near the deck.  Did I mention that we had about 20 people camping out in this here back yard just a few days ago?  It's going to take a little bit to get it all cleaned up again.  Oh, and that hole in the ground, that's the fire pit.  Rustic, but there.  We'll pretty it up a bit more before the party. Promise.  Meanwhile, here's a close-up of the new space.

Now, let me just take a second to talk about the black fabric you see hanging above everything.  This is Sun Shade fabric.  You can get it at most home improvement stores, and this stuff is AH-MAZ-ING.  Truly.  Not only does it provide a nice shady spot, which is usually 5-10 degrees cooler than in the direct sun, but it's also got sunblock properties.  I don't recall the exact SPF, but let me provide you with a bit of an example.

I am white. There is no tan in my skin's vocabulary. I'm white, and on occasion when I'm stupid enough to be outside for more than 15 minutes in direct sunlight without slathering myself in sunscreen, I'm red.  White and Red.  Those are my two color options.  No pigment.  Are you getting the scenario here?  This past weekend, when it was sunny with a high ranging from mid-80s to 102, I didn't put on sunblock.  I stayed outside - under the shade fabric - all day.  Are you hearing me? ALL DAY!  And when all was said and done, not only did I not burn, I didn't even get pink.  Not one bit.  That's how fantastic this stuff is.

You need it in your life.  You do.  If you're white, or have a white, pasty skinned loved one, you need this stuff.  Trust me.

Meanwhile, this is how we want the space to look when we're done.  We'll enclose the BBQ in an outdoor kitchen.  Pretty up the fire pit (as promised above) and even add an avocado tree on the left and throw in some real, honest to goodness grass.   Minus the pool of course, because it will be too cold, even in So Cal to swim.

Now, hopefully we can get this all done before GG's party.  Wish us luck!

Seriously.. Thoughts?