Porches

Marie’s Beautiful Screened Porch Addition with Before & After Photos

August 11, 2019 by Susan 37 Comments

Welcome to the 550th Metamorphosis Monday! Recently I received an email from a Marie, a BNOTP reader. Marie saw the photos I've shared of my screened-in porch and decided to add one to the back of her home. This was the area where Marie decided to add on her porch. Marie shared a few photos in her email showing the process of building the porch. It appears in the photo … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Porches Tagged With: Before and After Porch, DG Porches, Screen Porch Addition, Screened Porch

Life in a Summer House, Step Inside a Cozy, Screened-in Gazebo

June 3, 2019 by Susan 38 Comments

Welcome to the 540th Metamorphosis Monday! This weekend was a busy one! I tend to be a home-body and will often spend my weekends at home unless a friend calls to lure me out. On Saturday, a friend picked up tickets to The Secrets Gardens of Avondale and off we went on a wonderful garden tour. That was followed by seeing Henry VIII at the Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse on Sunday with another group of … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Gardening & Birding, Porches Tagged With: Garden Room, Outdoor Room, Outdoor Spaces, Potting Bench, Screened Gazebo, Summer House, Vintage Wicker Furniture

A Lamp for the Recently Added Console and a Spring Porch Update

March 25, 2019 by Susan 38 Comments

Welcome to the 530th Metamorphosis Monday! Spring has really come to Georgia. The Bradford Pear trees are in full bloom and the daffodils are beginning to wane, having bloomed for weeks now. Spring flowers and warmer temps have a way of motivating us to get going on some of those repairs and projects we've been putting off. A few months ago I shared how mice or rats had decided to create little doors … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Bedroom (Master), Before & After, Porches, Porches & Decks Tagged With: Candlestick Lamp, Narrow Console Table, Screened-in Porch

A Wreath Switcheroo: Staying With a Natural Green Wreath From Now On

December 17, 2018 by Susan 29 Comments

Welcome to the 516th Metamorphosis Monday! A week or two ago I shared how the porch was decorated for Christmas. You may remember I wasn't thrilled with how this ornament wreath looked against my red door. I'm using it elsewhere, it looks great out on the screened porch. So, here's how the porch looks now. I was a little worried at first about the performance of … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Christmas Decor, Porches, Porches & Decks

Finally Doing It–I’m Adding a Security Camera to My Front Porch

November 28, 2018 by Susan 46 Comments

I've been thinking about adding a security camera to my front porch for a long, long time. Fortunately, I've never had a package or anything go missing from my porch, but a camera could come in handy for that, as well. The main reason I've been wishing to add a camera is in hopes of avoiding unnecessary interruptions. So often when I'm working in the office or somewhere in the house, I'll hear the doorbell … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Christmas Gift Ideas, DIY Repairs and Fixes, Porches Tagged With: Home Security Camera, Ring Doorbell

Fall Wreath Idea, A Porch with a River View & Dreamy Fashions Inspired by Fashion Week

October 3, 2018 by Susan 17 Comments

I have quite a few fun things to share today, starting with this beautiful fall wreath Carol created for her front door this year. Carol said, "I saw your fall wreath and wanted to share with you my fall wreath. I am always finding something new and I add to it every year, so it has morphed into this now." I love this idea! What a great way to update an older wreath. I especially love the monogram … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fashion & Beauty, Favorite Fashions & Home Goods, Porches, Seasonal Decor Tagged With: Fall Door Decor, Fall Wreath, Fashion Week, Fire Pit, River House, Screened Porch

The Perfect Spot for Leaf Peeping & A Creative Way to Repurpose Vintage Crab Pots

September 3, 2018 by Susan 19 Comments

Welcome to the 501st Metamorphosis Monday! Did you have a great weekend? Hopefully, you have today off and are enjoying a long, 3-day weekend. I usually post during the weekend, but this weekend I gave myself the full weekend off and worked on some things here inside the house...mostly just a lot of organizing and cleaning. I guess that's not exactly taking the weekend off, now that I think about it. … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, DIY Decorating, Porches Tagged With: Crab Pots Repurposed, Screened Porch, Screened Porch Decor, Screened Porch Furniture

A Few Porch Updates & A Garden Seat Makeover

July 9, 2018 by Susan 45 Comments

Welcome to the 493rd Metamorphosis Monday! Did you go out of town for the July 4th week? This past week always seems like a big week for travel. This weekend has been a productive one for me as I've worked on a few things I've been putting off for a while. One chore I had been procrastinating on was giving the wicker seating group a good cleaning. I've had the two chairs and the settee (all made of … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, DIY Repairs and Fixes, Porches, Porches & Decks Tagged With: Cleaning All-Weather Wicker, Cleaning Outdoor Wicker, Garden Seat Makeover, Garden Stool Makeover, Gardening

51 Reasons You Need a Screened Porch

May 29, 2018 by Susan 38 Comments

1. Spring 2. Summer 3. Fall 4. Winter (depending on where you live) 5. Shade 6. No mosquitoes 7. No flies 8. No bugs. Period 9. Your dog will thank you 10. Your cat will thank you 11. Ceiling fans swirling overhead 12. Soft music + breezes and birdsong = heaven 13. Rainstorms 14. Sweet tea tastes better on a porch 15. Coffee tastes better on a porch 16. Wine … [Read more...]

Filed Under: My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks Tagged With: DG Porches, Outdoor Rooms, Outdoor Spaces, Porch, Screened Porch

Tips for Cleaning Pollen Off a Screened-in Porch & A Feeder for Dried Mealworms

April 9, 2018 by Susan 67 Comments

Welcome to the 480th Metamorphosis Monday! Yesterday I had a comment from Mark who said: Have a similar porch to yours and we love it already. It is coated in pollen. Do you ever hose yours off??? What is your cleaning routine? We are in NC and the pollen is 3 ft thick 🙂 There is not an easy way for water to run off, like yours, but wondered what you normally do. Normally when I'm using the … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks, Seasonal Decor Tagged With: Cleaning, Cleaning Tips, DG Porches, Pollen, Screened Porch

The Hunt for a Pretty Spring Wreath

March 26, 2018 by Susan 51 Comments

Welcome to the 478th Metamorphosis Monday! Recently I was watching a YouTube video where the vlogger had just purchased a large, floral wreath for her front door. It had huge hydrangea blossoms all around it, and I loved it. Update: It may have been peonies now that I think about it! I checked to see if I could order one online for my front door, but was unable to locate the shop. The vlogger had … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Porches, Porches & Decks, Seasonal Decor Tagged With: Floral Wreath, Front Door Wreath, Front Porch, Red Door, Spring Wreath, Tulip Wreath

A Patriotic Porch & A Refreshing Drink for Summer Gatherings

May 29, 2017 by Susan 61 Comments

Welcome to the 435th Metamorphosis Monday! Hope you've had a relaxing Memorial Day weekend. Mine was busy, but fun! This weekend I finally took time to reattach the covers over the swing chains. I had taken them off this spring to wash once the pollen attack was over, and had just never gotten around to putting them back on. It requires climbing a tall step ladder which always yields … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Independence Day Decor, Porches, Porches & Decks Tagged With: 4th of July Decorations, DIY Flag, Memorial Day Decorations, Patriotic Decorations, Porch, Screened Porch, White Wicker Furniture

A Beautiful Screened Porch Addition With Not One, But Two Porches!

April 10, 2017 by Susan 30 Comments

Welcome to the 428th Metamorphosis Monday! I absolutely love it when you share your "Before and Afters" with me! Recently, I received an email from Eric and Denise who said, "Having followed your site for several years I hesitated to share but thought the time was right to share a small change we made to our second home in NC. When we bought the house as a foreclosure we knew the moss-covered decks on … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Porches Tagged With: Deck Addition, DG Porches, Double Porches, Lake View, Porch Addition, Porch Before and After, Screened Porches

Decorate a Porch for Spring-Summer Relaxing and Dining

March 19, 2017 by Susan 8 Comments

Welcome to the 425th Metamorphosis Monday! Pssst: I'm posting Met Monday a bit early (Sunday evening) since I'll be traveling much of Monday. Thanks for all the comments you've been leaving on the pictures I've been posting from Morocco on Instagram. If you've missed those, you'll find them all posted here: BetweenNapsOnThePorch on Instagram. Instagram is the easiest and fastest way to share photos, … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Porches Tagged With: DG Porches, Porch Decorations, Porch Dining, Porch Furniture, Spring Decor, Spring Porches

Organize and Keep Your Entry Tidy with a Stylish Boot Tray

January 30, 2017 by Susan 51 Comments

Welcome to the 418th Metamorphosis Monday! This past summer when I was out digging and planting shrubs every day, I was coming in and out of my front door a lot. The front door is normally the door I go out when I'm checking the mail or doing any gardening in the front yard, including vacuuming up acorns. :) During all that gardening this past summer, I began to notice a … [Read more...]

Filed Under: DIY Organization and Storage, In the Garden, Porches Tagged With: Boot Organizer, Boot Tray, Boot Tray with Liner, Copper Boot Tray, Entry Boot Tray, Mud Room, Mud Room Organizer, Porch Organizer, White Boot Tray, Zinc Boot Tray

A Little Porch Decorating to Celebrate the Holidays

December 17, 2016 by Susan 85 Comments

Happy Weekend to you! Hard to believe Christmas will be here in just 9 days! I've had the porch decorated for a while now, but just haven't gotten around to sharing photos of how it turned out this year. Probably the biggest change for this year are the benches I added to the porch this past summer. I never realized how much I would enjoy having them here. They are the … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Christmas Decor, Christmas Holiday Home, My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks

A Porch Hutch Decorated for Autumn

November 3, 2016 by Susan 40 Comments

Welcome to the 424th Tablescape Thursday! I didn't get a chance to set a table this week so I thought I'd share how I dressed the porch hutch a few weeks ago. I pulled out some of my most favorite autumn/fall dishes and combined those with cute, pumpkin-shaped soup bowls. The leafy glassware is from Dollar Tree several years ago. I love using it in table settings this … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Fall Tablescapes, Porches, Seasonal Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: Autumn Dishware, Autumn Hutch, Fall Dishware, Fall Hutch, Leaf Plates, Porch Hutch

Deck Makeover: A Covered Porch & Room for Dining and Entertaining

October 17, 2016 by Susan 29 Comments

Welcome to the 403rd Metamorphosis Monday! A while back I shared a great idea Terry and her hubby Mark had come up with for their deck that would allow more time spent out doors. Sometimes the summer heat can just be too much and forces us to abandon our decks and patios and head inside. But Terry and Mark found a way around that by setting up a screened, tent-like structure on their deck . It created a … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Porches Tagged With: Covered Porch, Deck Expansion, Deck Makeover, Deck Redesign, Outdoor Entertaining

Decorate Your Porch for the Autumn Season

October 10, 2016 by Susan 38 Comments

Welcome to the 402nd Metamorphosis Monday! Linda has a beautiful 3-season porch that I've shared before here at BNOTP. It's so much fun seeing how she decorates it for the seasons and holidays. When we last visited Linda, her porch was all set for summer, decorated in a wonderful navy and white nautical theme. (See that post here: Nautical Decor & Tablescape) With the arrival of … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, DIY Decorating, Halloween Decor, Halloween Holiday Home, Porches, Seasonal Decor

Create An Autumn Porch That Will Invite Guests To Linger

September 5, 2016 by Susan 65 Comments

Welcome to the 397th Metamorphosis Monday! Even though it's still nice and warm here in Georgia, the mornings are feeling wonderfully cool. I come downstairs each morning and throw open the doors to the screened porch and let the cool morning air fill the house. Some days are so nice now, I can leave the doors open all day. This weekend I went ahead and hung my favorite fall wreath … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, DIY Decorating, My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks, Seasonal Decor

Nautical Decor & Tablescape for a 3-Season Porch

June 30, 2016 by Susan 41 Comments

Welcome to the 406th Tablescape Thursday! For this week's Tablescape Thursday, we're off for a visit to Linda's beautiful 3-season porch. You may remember Linda's porch from this previous post where I shared all the details about how she and her hubby converted their outside patio area to a mosquito-free space they enjoy all year around: An Ordinary Patio Becomes a Beautiful Three-Season … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Beachy Tablescapes, Porches, Seasonal Decor, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday Tagged With: 3 Season Porch, Beach Decor, Beach Porch Decor, Beach Table Setting, Nautical Decor, Nautical Porch, Nautical Tablescape

A Front Yard Makeover With Boxwood Shrubs, Benches & Copper-Roof Dovecote

June 6, 2016 by Susan 109 Comments

Welcome to the 384th Metamorphosis Monday! A while back I started a big makeover for my front yard landscape. Bushes were removed and transplanted to the back yard and a Japanese Waterfall Maple was transplanted to another area of the yard. The tree is doing well in its new home, as are the shrubs that were transplanted to the backyard. It's taken me a while to add shrubs back. I had … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Bedroom (Guest Room), Before & After, My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks Tagged With: Boxwood Shrubs, Copper Roof Dovecote, Front Porch Benches, Front Yard Landscape Makeover, Landscape Makeover

Landscaping with 4 Varieties of Boxwood Shrubs

May 30, 2016 by Susan 50 Comments

Welcome to the 383rd Metamorphosis Monday! Looking forward to all the wonderful Before and Afters for this Metamorphosis Monday! Happy Memorial Day to you. This weekend I've been working out front. When I last left you, I had a couple of shrubs in the ground. See them there in the back? Today, this side looks like this. Yay for progress! So far I've planted 5 Green Beauty Boxwood, … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Gardening & Birding, In the Garden, My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks Tagged With: Baby Gem Boxwood, Boxwood Shrubs, Green Beauty Boxwood, Green Mountain Boxwood, Green Tower Boxwood, Limelight Hydrangea

Two New Benches for the Front Porch

May 27, 2016 by Susan 196 Comments

A few days ago I blogged about ordering a couple of the Luciana benches from Grandinroad when they were having a good sale on their outdoor benches. (View that post here: Whimsical Garden Bench for the Front Porch) As mentioned in that previous post, my front porch was built from this photo found in a Southern Homes magazine many years ago. This is the beautiful historic home at Gainesway … [Read more...]

Filed Under: My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks Tagged With: Bench, Black Bench, Front Porch, Porch, Wood Bench

Progress is Messy!

May 25, 2016 by Susan 75 Comments

I think it's official, I have just a few too many irons in the fire. lol If I write something completely nonsensical in the next few days, just know it's because there's a lot of stuff going on here and my brain may be on overload. It's good stuff, but it's going to get crazier before it gets better, I'm afraid. Today I went to visit my bushes. If I go to Pike Nursery one more time, they will probably … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Gardening & Birding, In the Garden, My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks Tagged With: Boxwood Shrubs, Green Beauty Boxwood

A Whimsical Garden Bench for the Front Porch & Some Landscape Updates

May 23, 2016 by Susan 63 Comments

Welcome to the 382nd Metamorphosis Monday! See that chart below? Yay, for sunshine! Finally, the re-varnishing of the screened porch floor can start tomorrow. It was scheduled for almost two weeks ago, but the weather has not cooperated. Finally, we have sunny days ahead. Boxwood Shrubs for the Front Yard Landscape While I've been awaiting sunny days, my focus has returned to the … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Garden, Gardening & Birding, In the Garden, My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks Tagged With: Baby Gem Boxwood, Boxwood Shrubs, Garden Bench, Green Beauty Boxwood, Whimsical Bench

After 8 Years, It’s Time!

May 9, 2016 by Susan 60 Comments

Welcome to the 380th Metamorphosis Monday! It was a busy weekend around here. The porch that normally looks like this... ...and like this... ...looks like this today. Ruh-roh! Something's up! The hutch that was full of dishes, now looks like this. All the dishes are here on the breakfast table. What is going on around here?! After 8 … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, DIY Repairs and Fixes, Porches Tagged With: KDAT Wood, KDAT Wood Flooring, Porch Floor, Porch Flooring, Screened Porch, Wood Porch Floor

Makeover a Hutch with a Nautical-Beach Theme

April 14, 2016 by Susan 31 Comments

Welcome to the 395th Tablescape Thursday! Recently I de-pollened the porch and gave it a little spring makeover. I dressed the porch hutch with my fave porch dishes: Tabletops Unlimited, Ma Maison. For this week's Tablescape Thursday, I decided to give the hutch a little beach makeover using a dishware I purchased back in right after the porch was … [Read more...]

Filed Under: My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks, Seasonal Decor, Spring & Summer Tablescapes, Tablescape Thursday

Screened Porch Updates: Welcome Spring!

April 11, 2016 by Susan 58 Comments

Welcome to the 376th Metamorphosis Monday! The past couple of weeks have been busy ones. With friends coming to stay for a few days, I threw it into high gear and cleaned all those places that never seem to make it to the top of the cleaning list...things like shutters and molding. During my cleaning frenzy, even though the pollen siege wasn't quite over, I wet a tissue (a la Mom) and tried to get … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks Tagged With: DG Porches, Outdoor Rooms, Outdoor Spaces, Porch Ceilings, Porch Decor, Porch Flooring, Porch Plants, Screened Porches, Summer Entertaining, White Wicker Furniture

My Favorite Chest Is On Sale & An Update for My Deck

April 8, 2016 by Susan 46 Comments

Yesterday I stopped by Pier 1 to look at their outdoor furniture. I really need to replace the table and chairs I currently have out on my deck. I didn't find the outdoor set I wanted but while I was there, I noticed they have my favorite chest on sale. I purchased this chest a few years ago when I was creating my home office. Back then, I searched and searched for months for a chest to go beside the … [Read more...]

Filed Under: My Nest, Office/Craft/Sewing Room, Porches, Porches & Decks Tagged With: Bedside Chest, Chairside Chest, Replacing Copper Solar Post Caps, Small Chest, Wood Post Caps

An Outdoor Space Designed for Dining and Relaxing by the Fire

April 4, 2016 by Susan 24 Comments

Welcome to the 375th Metamorphosis Monday! Thanks so much for all your well wishes on Friday. Sunday was the big turning point. I awoke on Sunday still feeling pretty rough, but about midway through the day I began feeling much better. From your comments, it sounds like there's some kind of bug going around. Thanks again for your kind words on Friday, they really helped! For this week's Met Monday, I … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Porches, Seasonal Decor Tagged With: DG Porches, Outdoor Dining, Outdoor Fireplace, Outdoor Furniture, Outdoor Rooms, Outdoor Spaces for Entertaining

A Dream Outdoor Summer House & Gardening Shed

March 8, 2016 by Susan 24 Comments

I love being outdoors, listening to the birds chirping and feeling the soft breezes as they stir through the trees. I've been known to go outside and spend the entire day there, either digging in the yard or just whiling around the hours on the porch completely lost in a good book. Recently, I came across the most wonderful outdoor space, truly a dream garden. I'm pretty sure when we pass on one day, … [Read more...]

Filed Under: DIY, DIY Decorating, Gardening & Birding, In the Garden, Porches Tagged With: Gardening Shed, Greenhouse Designs, Potting Shed Designs, Recycling Doors, Recycling Windows

Install a Long Swing-Arm Hook for Hanging Plants or Bird Feeders

March 1, 2016 by Susan 22 Comments

I have several bird feeders hanging off the pergola that extends over one of my decks. The feeders hang from long swing-arm hangers. The hooks work great for hanging squirrel-proof feeders because the length of the rod helps deter the squirrels. They also keep the feeders out away from the deck, which keeps the decks cleaner and encourages the birds to come dine. Since my decks and porch are a full story … [Read more...]

Filed Under: For the Love of Birds, Gardening & Birding, Porches, Porches & Decks

A Waterproof Wicker Outdoor Lamp For The Porch

February 29, 2016 by Susan 59 Comments

Welcome to the 370th Metamorphosis Monday! When I added a screened porch onto my home in 2008, I knew I wanted to light the porch at night with just lamp light, no overhead lighting. I love the ambiance lamps give to a space. Once the porch was complete, I ran around the house borrowing lamps from various rooms until I could purchase lamps that felt suited for a porch, particularly a porch with … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Porches, Porches & Decks Tagged With: Bamboo Lamp, Outdoor Floor Lamp, Outdoor Lamp, Outdoor Table Lamp, Porch Lamp, Waterproof Lamp, Wicker Lamp

Porch Questions: Porch Season Is Almost Here

February 22, 2016 by Susan 83 Comments

Welcome to the 369th Metamorphosis Monday! Right now the porch looks like this, minus the green leafy backdrop. But sometimes it looks like this, only not this dark. My photography skills weren't the greatest when that photo was taken. Summer of 2014, I took down the sheers when I had the porch freshened up with a new coat of paint. After the painting was done, I decided … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Porches, Porches & Decks Tagged With: Hang Curtains on Porch, Hang Sheers on Porch, Porch Curtains, Screened Porches

Create a Hot Cocoa Bar for Winter Entertaining

December 22, 2015 by Susan 61 Comments

Happy Holidays to you, dear Friends! We're out on the porch today and I know it's a little chilly. Don't worry though, I have just the thing to warm us up. Step right over here and belly up to the bar--the Hot Cocoa Bar, that is. :) I've been envisioning a Hot Cocoa Bar for years out here on the porch, but I could never quite gather together all the bits and pieces I needed to create it, … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Christmas Crafts, Christmas Decor, Christmas Holiday Home, Christmas Table Settings, Christmas Tablescapes, DIY, DIY Crafts & Sewing, DIY Decorating, Porches, Porches & Decks, Winter Tablescapes Tagged With: Hot Chocolate Bar, Hot Chocolate Station, Hot Cocoa Bar, Hot Cocoa Station, Winter Entertaining, Winter Parties

Decorate the Porch in Tartan for Christmas

December 21, 2015 by Susan 35 Comments

Welcome to the 360th Metamorphosis Monday! Last summer I shared Linda's beautiful porch as it looks during the summer in this post: Patio Becomes a Three-Season Porch In October I shared how it looks during the fall months: Decorate a Porch for Autumn Linda has transformed it again for the holidays and it's a winter wonderland with lots of great accent pieces pulled … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Christmas Decor, Christmas Holiday Home, Porches Tagged With: Christmas Porch, Nature-Themed Christmas Tree, Tartan Christmas Decorations, Tartan Lamp, Whimsical Christmas Pillows

A Small Change Can Have a Big Impact

December 14, 2015 by Susan 67 Comments

Welcome to the 359th Metamorphosis Monday! Have you ever noticed how we sometimes develop blindness to something in our own home? We walk right by it every day and after a while it just blends into the landscape of our homes and we don't see it anymore. I know I've done that many times over the years. Recently I shared a picture of my porch decorated for Christmas. While working on that post and … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Porches, Porches & Decks Tagged With: Front Porch Makeover, Monogrammed Door Mats

A Red Christmas Door

December 2, 2015 by Susan 66 Comments

Just popping in with a few photos of my front porch progress. I took these photos this evening after dark to give you an idea of how things look at night. The porch doesn't feel complete just yet; it needs a little greenery around the bottom of the urns and a little something else, but it's getting there. In years past, I've alway hung the garland lower on the door as seen in this photo … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Christmas Decor, Christmas Holiday Home, Porches

7 Christmas Porches

November 16, 2015 by Susan 25 Comments

Welcome to the 355th Metamorphosis Monday! Ahoy Matey! As you read this, I'm somewhere out floating in the Caribbean, hopefully NOT in the Bermuda Triangle!!! ;) I'm off sailing with the The Property Brothers, Drew and Jonathan Scott on their "Sailing With The Scotts, Ultimate Design Cruise." I have lots of posts ready for you this week. If I can find a Wifi connection, I'll also share some photos … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Christmas Decor, Christmas Holiday Home, My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks Tagged With: Christmas Porch Decorations

Decorate a Porch or Sunroom for Autumn

October 19, 2015 by Susan 21 Comments

Welcome to the 351st Metamorphosis Monday! Earlier this year in June, I shared Linda's beautiful 3-season porch. You may remember that this space was once a concrete pad with just a pergola overhead. Linda and her hubby transformed it into a porch they now enjoy almost all year-long. They kept this room and the adjoining living room light and bright by using a clear, acrylic roof … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Halloween Decor, Halloween Holiday Home, Porches, Seasonal Decor, Thanksgiving Decor Tagged With: Autumn Decorating Ideas, Autumn Porch, Fall Decor, Fall Porch

Refreshing The Porch For Autumn Joy

October 12, 2015 by Susan 35 Comments

Welcome to the 350th Metamorphosis Monday! I'm super excited to share a wonderful autumn porch makeover by my friends, Mary and Dave at Front Porch Ideas and More. This makeover has lots of great ideas including no-sew pillows, a DIY table runner and an outdoor furniture makeover done on a budget. Here's Mary now to share how she and Dave, with the help of their darling granddaughter, Millie, … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, DIY Crafts & Sewing, DIY Decorating, Porches, Seasonal Decor

How To Refurbish A Rusted Old Bistro Set

October 5, 2015 by Susan 48 Comments

Welcome to the 349th Metamorphosis Monday! This cool fall weather has me itching to get outside and do a little sprucing up. Lately I've been noticing the bistro table I love to use for outdoor dining was starting to show its age. I normally use a tablecloth when dining here but the rest of the time the table is uncovered for everyday use. This set is made of metal. When … [Read more...]

Filed Under: DIY, DIY Decorating, DIY Photography, DIY Repairs and Fixes, Porches, Porches & Decks

A Screened Porch Addition, No Haints Allowed!

July 27, 2015 by Susan 36 Comments

Welcome to the 339th Metamorphosis Monday! Recently I received the nicest e-mail from Gloria. She recently added a screened-in porch on to the back of her home and it turned out beautifully! Gloria said, "I found you and your blog in 2012 when I was doing my research to convert a deck on the west side of my house to a screened porch. My husband and I never used the deck because it was just too hot … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Porches Tagged With: Haint-Blue Ceiling, Screened-in Porch, Wicker Furniture

An Ordinary Patio Becomes A Beautiful Three-Season Porch

June 29, 2015 by Susan 74 Comments

Welcome to the 335th Metamorphosis Monday! I'm so excited because I have such a treat for you today! Recently, Linda and her hubby added a three season porch to the back of their home. Linda said, "Recently, my hubby enclosed our outdoor area. Formally, this space was a raised concrete patio that had a pergola over it." "He always hesitated to enclose it because he didn't want a roof … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Porches Tagged With: 3 Season Porch, Eze-Breeze Windows, Porch Addition, Three Season Porch

A Beautiful Screened Porch and Deck Renovation

June 22, 2015 by Susan 36 Comments

Welcome to the 334th Metamorphosis Monday! Shortly after Anne and her husband, Mike, moved to Birmingham, Alabama, they decided to renovate their screened-in porch and deck. The original porch and deck were smaller than what they wanted for their home. When completed, the renovation ended up doubling the size of their porch and deck! Construction began and in the photo below you can see … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Porches Tagged With: Deck Renovation, Fireplace for Porch, Screened Porch Renovation

A Secret Garden Party and You’re Invited

June 15, 2015 by Susan 53 Comments

Welcome to the 333rd Metamorphosis Monday! When my son and daughter-in-law moved into their home a couple of years ago, they inherited a beautiful backyard. The older couple who previously lived there were avid gardeners and they had created a secluded paradise that was the talk of the neighborhood. The cares of the day vanished the moment you entered this lovely garden. Nancy and Chip's … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Gardening & Birding, In the Garden, Porches, Spring & Summer Tablescapes Tagged With: Martha Stewart Outdoor Furniture, Oleander Outdoor Furniture Collection

A Screened Porch Haven for Warm Summer Days

June 8, 2015 by Susan 33 Comments

Welcome to the 332nd Metamorphosis Monday! Suzy who blogs at Worthing Court , moved last summer into a home built in the mid-90's. It was in need of some updating so gradually she's been renovating it room-by-room. One of the rooms Suzy couldn't wait to makeover was her screened-in porch. Initially, it was a mixture of miscellaneous outdoor furniture that Suzy had left over from her previous … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Porches

In The BNOTP Library: Porch Parties

May 30, 2015 by Susan 1 Comment

I love, love, love Denise Gee's books. This is the second one I've shared, the first being Southern Cocktails. Her books are always my go-to source when I'm planning a summer party and want to serve a special party drink to surprise my friends. In the BNOTP Library: Porch Parties: Cocktail Recipes and Easy Ideas for Outdoor Entertaining Author: Denise Gee 3 Things I Like … [Read more...]

Filed Under: BNOTP Library, Porches Tagged With: Denise Gee, Party Drinks, Porch Parties

A Screened Porch For Ocean Breezes

May 29, 2015 by Susan 9 Comments

What better place to have a screened-in porch than at the beach! When Carla and her hubby were building their beach home, Carla came across BNOTP. Carla said, "We just finished our house at the beach last summer. While we were building, I found your blog, and you convinced me that we needed to make our back porch bigger. I am SO glad we did!" I asked Carla for a tour of her wonderful … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Beach & Lake Homes, Porches

Replace Your Deck With a Fabulous Screened Porch

May 25, 2015 by Susan 26 Comments

Welcome to the 330th Metamorphosis Monday! Have a deck that you rarely use? Maybe it gets the "way-too-hot" west sun like mine did. Or, perhaps when you head outside, blood-thirsty mosquitoes move in and do their best to turn you into their personal buffet. This past March Cindy decided to replace her deck (shown below) with a fabulous screened-in porch. Cindy said, "Our porch was … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Porches

In The BNOTP Library: Decorating Porches and Decks

May 19, 2015 by Susan 4 Comments

The book I'm sharing from my library today is one I purchased back in January 2008. That was during the time construction was underway for my screened porch. I was buying just about every "porch" book I could find during those days, looking for ideas and inspiration as I decorated my porch addition. In the BNOTP Library: Decorating Porches And Decks: Stylish Projects for the Outdoor … [Read more...]

Filed Under: BNOTP Library, Porches

A Screened Porch Addition For Dining, Relaxing & Enjoying The Garden

May 19, 2015 by Susan 27 Comments

A few years ago Susan and Mark decided to add a screened-in porch onto the back of their Pennsylvania home. Susan said, "We are empty nesters, aside from having four cats. About two years ago I decided that it would be nice to have a screened in porch. We could sit on the porch and enjoy our yard, as my husband loves to garden. He plants flowers, herbs, and some vegetables like tomatoes, peppers and … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Porches

In The BNOTP Library: Pleasures of the Porch

April 3, 2015 by Susan 4 Comments

With warm weather here at last (we hit 80° today and it's 74° as I type this at 10:00 at night) I have all things "porch" on the brain. Time to share another favorite porch book! In the BNOTP Library: Pleasures of the Porch : Ideas for Gracious Outdoor Living Author: Daria Price Bowman 3 Things I Like About This Book: Pleasures of the Porch is another great porch book filled … [Read more...]

Filed Under: BNOTP Library, Porches Tagged With: DG Porches, Porch Decorating, Porch Design, Porch Furnishings, Porch Plants

In The BNOTP Library: On The Porch

April 1, 2015 by Susan Leave a Comment

The book I'm sharing today is one I purchased back in April 2007 when I was just starting to make plans for adding a screened porch onto the back of my home. It would be a full year before my porch was complete...just in time for its first summer of fun! In the BNOTP Library: On the Porch: Creating Your Place to Watch the World Go By Author: James M. Crisp 3 Things I Like About This … [Read more...]

Filed Under: BNOTP Library, Porches Tagged With: DG Porches, James M. Crisp, Porch Book

The Porch Hutch Gets a Makeover For Spring and Summer

March 9, 2015 by Susan 49 Comments

Welcome to the 319th Metamorphosis Monday! This has been the wackiest week with 75 degree temps on Wednesday, snow on Friday and back up to 70 on Sunday. Has the weather been this up and down where you live, too? With the warm temps returning yesterday, I spent some time out on the porch cleaning a little and getting it ready for the warm days ahead. After cleaning the dust and grime of winter off … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks, Seasonal Decor Tagged With: Porch Makeover, Seasonal Decorating, Summer Hutch

A Beautiful Outdoor Oasis For Entertaining

February 25, 2015 by Susan 23 Comments

Cold, what cold? In my mind it's summertime. We're out on the deck, the sun is shining and the hamburgers and hotdogs sizzling on the grill smell heavenly. Did you hear that? It's the doorbell, barely heard over the beautiful music emanating across the porch and decks on this gorgeous summer day. Friends are arriving and the fun is just beginning. Time for partying and playing outside again. Okay, … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Gardening & Birding, In the Garden, Porches, Seasonal Decor Tagged With: Deck Designs, Garden Seat for Deck, Outdoor Curtains, Outdoor Dining, Outdoor Entertaining, Outdoor Lantern, Outdoor Seating, Pergola

Decorating The Porch For Christmas

December 12, 2014 by Susan 77 Comments

One of my favorite places to decorate for Christmas is the front porch. It's the first "room" friends and family see when visiting , and at Christmastime it's so much fun to make it feel extra special and inviting. When decorating, be it inside or out, I always love a mix of fresh greenery and faux. Fresh greenery gives you the scent while faux gives you the look you want while saving you … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Christmas Decor, Christmas Holiday Home, Christmas Home Tours, My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks Tagged With: Christmas Lanterns, Lit Topiary Trees, Magnolia, Ornament Wreath, Pottery Barn Lit Garland, Vintage Thermos Plaid Picnic

Replace Your Old Doorbell For The Upcoming Holidays

November 7, 2014 by Susan 24 Comments

Happy Friday! Got any special plans for the weekend? Will you be doing any DIY projects around the house or maybe decorating for the holidays? Speaking of DIY projects, about a month ago I completed a small upgrade that I'm super excited to share today. I've noticed from time-to-time over the years that my doorbell was looking pretty decrepit. I tell ya, doorbells get no respect. lol They get installed … [Read more...]

Filed Under: DIY Decorating, DIY Repairs and Fixes, My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks Tagged With: Doorbell Installation, Doorbells, Michael Healy Doorbell

Eye of Newt and Toe of Frog, Wool of Bat…

October 15, 2014 by Susan 97 Comments

Eye of newt and toe of frog, Wool of bat and tongue of dog... Double, double toil and trouble; fire burn and cauldron bubble. Macbeth (Act IV, Scene I) ~William Shakespeare Eeek! It's like a scene from Alfred Hitchcock's movie, The Birds! Only, in this case it's The Bats! I've had this image saved on my computer for a year or two. I've always wanted to duplicate the look on my front porch for … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Halloween Crafts, Halloween Decor, Halloween Holiday Home, My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks Tagged With: Halloween, Halloween Craft, Halloween Decorations, Porch Decorations

A Spooky Halloween Hutch

September 29, 2014 by Susan 62 Comments

Welcome to the 296th Metamorphosis Monday! Did you have a good weekend? I spent mine getting a few things done here around the house. I also played a little out on the porch, changing the hutch from its summertime look to something fun and just a tad spooky! Postcards From The Porch Before I share the hutch update, I wanted to say a big thank you to all the lovely folks who took time to … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Halloween Decor, Halloween Holiday Home, My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks, Seasonal Decor Tagged With: Halloween Decorations, Halloween Porch, Screened Porch

A Screened Porch Addition For A New England Home

September 22, 2014 by Susan 69 Comments

Welcome to the 295th Metamorphosis Monday! When Lori and Bob built their home in 1993, they added a nice, large 14 x 24 foot deck on the back. After moving in they found they never really used the deck because the back of their home faces west and the deck always stayed way too hot to really enjoy. I had the same problem with the deck on my home being way too hot, even though the back of my home faces … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Porches Tagged With: Screened Porch Addition, Screened Porch Designs, Screened Porch Furniture, Screened Porches

Night Sounds From The Porch

September 16, 2014 by Susan 64 Comments

I absolutely adore owls! They are sooo beautiful! Last night I was working late in the office when I heard two Barred Owls in the trees out back. I grabbed my camera and ran down to the porch to see if I could capture their hoots for you. I thought about using my phone to record them but I knew my camera would pick up the audio much better. Unfortunately, you can't see anything because it … [Read more...]

Filed Under: For the Love of Birds, Gardening & Birding, My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks

Concrete Walkway Transformed With Beautiful Cobble-Stone Pavers

September 8, 2014 by Susan 52 Comments

Welcome to the 293rd Metamorphosis Monday! Have you ever thought about making over your front walkway? Often, our walkway is the very first impression visitors have of our home since it's one of first things they see upon arriving. We want our walkway and entrance to always feel inviting and welcoming since it guides our friends and family right up to the front door of our home. Carolyn who reads … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Gardening & Birding, In the Garden, Porches Tagged With: Cobblestone Pavers, Concrete Walkway Makeover, Outdoor Lighting, Walkway Before and After, Walkway Lighting, Walkway Transformation

Beautiful Screened Porch, Deck And Pergola Addition

August 26, 2014 by Susan 38 Comments

Recently, I received a lovely comment from Maryanne who reads Between Naps On The Porch. She shared that she had loved the porch I added to my home a few years ago so much, she added one like it to her home last year. My ears perked up, I absolutely love hearing from folks who have added porches to their home. I asked Maryanne if she could share some photos so I could share them with you. She did and … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Porches Tagged With: Deck Addition, Pergola Addition, Porch Swings, Prevent Pollen On Porches, Screened Porch Addition

Electrical Cord Covers Hide Metal Swing Chains

August 18, 2014 by Susan 59 Comments

Welcome to the 290th Metamorphosis Monday! How was your weekend? Hope it was relaxing and fun! I had some friends over for a little cookout on the porch and we had great time together. Speaking of the porch, recently I had it freshened up with a new coat of paint. It had been over 6 years since it was last painted. After the porch was painted, I noticed the covers on the swing were looking pretty … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks Tagged With: Cord Covers, Decorating a Porch, Metal Swing Chains, Porch Swings

How Much Does It Cost To Build A Front Porch

August 6, 2014 by Susan 92 Comments

When I first moved into my home over twenty years ago, it did not have a front porch. It looked very much like all the other homes in my neighborhood. In the early 80's when the homes in my neighborhood were all being built, porches were just not important to builders. I guess they thought no one really cared about them anymore. Over the years as I welcomed friends and family into my home, I began to … [Read more...]

Filed Under: My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks Tagged With: Front Porch Addition, Gainesway Farm, Porch renovation, Small Front Porch Addition

In The BNOTP Library: Perfect Porches by Paula S. Wallace

July 29, 2014 by Susan 7 Comments

After seeing all those fabulous porches earlier this morning in our tour of a wonderful lake home and guest cottage on The Ford Plantation, I knew just the book to share with you this evening. I figure with a blog titled Between Naps on the Porch, it's my solemn duty to sample and road test all the available porch books to be found! :) In the BNOTP Library: Perfect Porches: Designing … [Read more...]

Filed Under: BNOTP Library, Porches

Screened-in Porch Freshened Up With Paint

July 28, 2014 by Susan 84 Comments

Welcome to the 287th Metamorphosis Monday! Happy Monday! Hope you had an awesome summer weekend! I was fretting a bit over mine, wondering how I would be getting a post ready for Met Monday since I dropped my computer off for repairs early on Friday and when last I checked on Saturday, they still haven't gotten around to working on it. I was 4th in line, now 2nd, so hopefully they will be repairing it … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks Tagged With: Painting Decks, Painting Pergolas, Painting Porches, Painting Screened Porches, Screened Porch, Screened-in Porch, Tardiva Hydrangeas, Tree-form Hydrangeas

In The BNOTP Library: Porch Perfect

July 11, 2014 by Susan 7 Comments

Since I have all things "porch" on the brain right now (check out this morning's post for more details) I thought it was time to share another porch book. I can never, ever have too many porch books! I look for the bargains on Amazon and my wee porch library grows each year. In the BNOTP Library: Porch Perfect Author: Barbara B. Buchholz Hardcover: 144 pages Book Size: 10.2 x 10.1 x … [Read more...]

Filed Under: BNOTP Library, Porches Tagged With: Barbara Buchholz, Lisa Skolnik, Porch Books, Porch Perfect

Has To Get Worse Before It Gets Better

July 11, 2014 by Susan 63 Comments

That woman you see, the one walking around muttering and looking distracted...yeah, that's me. I know it has to get worse before it gets better but I still don't especially like it. The porch that normally looks like this... ...currently looks like this. I just keep reminding myself, chaos is a sign progress is being made. The porch has weathered well for the past six years despite being … [Read more...]

Filed Under: DIY Repairs and Fixes, Gardening & Birding, In the Garden, My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks

In The BNOTP Library: Sentimental Living From the Porch

June 17, 2014 by Susan 11 Comments

Sharing another one of my favorite porch books today. This one is chock full of wonderful ideas for decorating and entertaining on the porch. I noticed tonight, I purchased it from Amazon in December 2007. That's exactly when I was knee-deep in the middle of adding a screened-in porch and front porch to my home. In the BNOTP Library: Sentimental Living From The Porch: four seasons of … [Read more...]

Filed Under: BNOTP Library, Porches Tagged With: DG Porches, Dining on Porches, Outdoor Decorating Ideas, Porch Decorating, Porch Entertaining, Porch Styles, Porch Wreaths, Southern Porches

In The BNOTP Library: Relaxing On The Porch

June 7, 2014 by Susan 21 Comments

I've been gone all day today, doing a little clothes/shoe shopping, something I rarely do. This warm weather has put me in the mood to update my summer wardrobe. I'm in love with Lilly Pulitzer dresses and skirts this summer. I didn't buy any today but it was fun looking at all the styles. I've just discovered Jack Rogers sandals. Did you know Jackie O wore Jack Rogers sandals? I didn't know that until … [Read more...]

Filed Under: BNOTP Library, Porches Tagged With: Back Porches, DG Porches, Front Porches, Modern Porches, Porch Decorating, Porch Design, Screened Porches, Southern Porches, Two-Story Porches

Tree Form Tardiva Hydrangea Adds Privacy and Screening To The Deck

May 28, 2014 by Susan 62 Comments

Every year I spruce up the deck a bit for the spring/summer season. I've delayed this year because I've been getting estimates for having the porch and decks pressure washed and painted and it didn't make sense to buy plants and fill up all the pots if they were all going to have to be moved, come painting time. Once plans for a Memorial Day cookout got underway, I threw caution to the wind and started … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Garden, Gardening & Birding, In the Garden, Porches, Porches & Decks Tagged With: Bottle Trees, Million Bells Petunias, Pagoda Umbrella, Tardiva Hydrangea, Tree Form Hibiscus, Tree Form Hydrangea

After The Party

May 26, 2014 by Susan 72 Comments

Welcome to the 278th Metamorphosis Monday! It's 4:00 on a Sunday afternoon. Three friends will be arriving for a cookout in one hour. Everything is ready. Somehow the party faeries have all conspired in my favor and I'm actually running ahead of schedule. There may even be time for a few minutes on the porch alone before the guests arrive. I open the refrigerator to pour myself a cold drink and OMG, I … [Read more...]

Filed Under: My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks

In The BNOTP Library: The Conservatory Book

May 7, 2014 by Susan 5 Comments

I love the look and romance of a beautiful conservatory. Remember the one in the movie, Practical Magic? I loved that conservatory! The book I'm sharing today will have you dreaming of beautiful conservatories. In the BNOTP Library: The Conservatory Book Author: Peter Marston Hardcover: 160 pages Book size: 11.7 x 9.6 x 0.8 3 Things I Like About This Book: Pictures … [Read more...]

Filed Under: BNOTP Library, Porches Tagged With: Peter Marston, The Conservatory Book

Jazzing Up a Porch For Springtime Enjoyment

May 5, 2014 by Susan 41 Comments

Welcome to the 275th Metamorphosis Monday! I love, love, love how the days are getting longer. Okay, the days aren't really getting longer but you know what I mean. The daylight is staying with us more and more and I just love it! With more daylight hours for playing, it's time to get out there and spruce up our outdoor spaces and that's exactly what Mary and Dave from Front Porch Ideas and More did … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, DIY Repairs and Fixes, Porches Tagged With: Painting a Rug, Porch Cleaning, Porch Decor, Porch Decorating, Porch Rug

A Cure for Sagginess

April 28, 2014 by Susan 103 Comments

Welcome to the 274th Metamorphosis Monday! How was your weekend? Hope it was grand! I spent much of my weekend pouring through One Man's Folly, a book I had pre-ordered and have been eagerly awaiting its arrival. I rarely pre-order a book but this one sounded like it was going to be amazing from the articles I had read online. Oh, my gosh...is it ever! Such a wonderful book! I have so enjoyed every … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, DIY Decorating, DIY Organization and Storage, DIY Repairs and Fixes, My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks Tagged With: China Storage, Dish Storage, Hutch Repair, Porch Hutch, Porch Storage, Shelf Repair

The Summer Porch: Beach Cottage Decor

April 14, 2014 by Susan 94 Comments

Welcome to the 272nd Metamorphosis Monday! It's been beautiful here so I've been playing out on the porch. This is how the hutch normally looks during the spring and summer months. I usually have a variety of white pitchers displayed along the top and my fave porch dishware, Tabletops Unlimited. Ma Maison by Dario Farrucci, displayed on the shelves. I get a lot of comments and e-mails … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Beachy Tablescapes, Before & After, My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks, Seasonal Decor

In the BNOTP Library: Garden Room Style

April 5, 2014 by Susan 4 Comments

I have a thing for conservatories, greenhouses and any room where you can bring the outdoors in. The cover of the book I'm sharing from the BNOTP library today, drew me in and it was not a disappointment. The rooms inside are just as beautiful, some even more so! In the BNOTP Library: Garden Room Style Author: Peter Marston Published: Rizzoli (September 15, 1998) Hardcover: 160 pages Book size: … [Read more...]

Filed Under: BNOTP Library, Gardening & Birding, In the Garden, Porches Tagged With: Conservatories, Garden Rooms, Gardening, Greenhouses

Decorating the Porch for Spring

March 3, 2014 by Susan 93 Comments

Welcome to the 266th Metamorphosis Monday! This weekend was so nice here, especially Sunday. I threw open both doors to the porch and spent some time enjoying our 70+ degree weather. I did a little pre-spring cleaning, dusting off a few things in anticipation of the warm days to come. Recently, I came across this little bird feeder in Lowes. It has a rope attached and when … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks, Seasonal Decor Tagged With: Porch Decorating, Screened-in Porch, Spring Porch, Springtime Porch, Springtime Screened Porch

Screened-in Porch Decorated For Christmas

December 16, 2013 by Susan 136 Comments

Welcome to the 255th Metamorphosis Monday! This weekend I played out on the porch, decorating it for the Christmas season. The trees are all bare now, definitely looking like winter on the porch. A view from the other end... I used things I already had for the most part. The table was decorated simply with live greenery, a sweet glittery deer, … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Christmas Decor, Christmas Holiday Home, My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks, The Holiday Home

Decorating the Front Porch for Christmas

December 9, 2013 by Susan 79 Comments

Welcome to the 254th Metamorphosis Monday! For this week's Met Monday, I'm sharing how I decided to decorate the porch for Christmas this year. But first, let's take a quick look at the previous three years. For Christmas, 2010 I purchased a fir wreath and pine garland and embellished both with magnolia leaves from the magnolia tree in my front yard. It was also the first year I decorated the columns … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Christmas Decor, Christmas Holiday Home, Porches, The Holiday Home

Christmas Door Ideas: Decorate with Triple Wreaths

November 11, 2013 by Susan 55 Comments

Welcome to the 250th Metamorphosis Monday! So, I was thinking this weekend, what can I share with you for Met Monday? I'm working on a few things around here, but nothing really Met Monday worthy. Ummmm, what to do? I have this fat, bulging folder on my computer labeled "Post About." It's where pictures and ideas go to marinate, often forgotten but always patiently awaiting their day to shine. If … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Christmas Decor, Christmas Holiday Home, Porches, The Holiday Home Tagged With: Christmas Decorating, Christmas Door Decorations, Christmas Porch

Ideas and Inspiration for Your Thanksgiving Celebration

November 8, 2013 by Susan 53 Comments

Happy Friday! Are you looking forward to the weekend? Any fun plans for a little leaf ogling or cider sipping? Have you finalized all your plans for Thanksgiving? If not, you're going to like today's post! I'm excited to be joining in a fun Thanksgiving party put together by Laura who blogs at Top This Top That. The other lovely ladies participating in today's "Better Late Than Never" … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Porches, Seasonal Decor, Thanksgiving Decor, Thanksgiving Holiday Home, The Holiday Home

Getting Stuff Done & It Feels Good!

November 5, 2013 by Susan 36 Comments

Doesn't it feel good to finally get "stuff" done that's been needing to be done for ages? I know, the list is always endless, but at least I can finally check a few things off. Yesterday, I left you with a painted screened door, but before it could be installed it needed to be re-screened. It just barely fit into the back of my SUV, but thankfully it did and off we went to the screening … [Read more...]

Filed Under: My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks

How to Paint Doors Like a Pro

November 4, 2013 by Susan 68 Comments

Welcome to the 249th Metamorphosis Monday! One of the most basic DIY jobs we face at one time or another is painting. We've all painted a room or two in our time, haven't we? Paint truly has the ability to transform a space taking it from so-so to sooo beautiful! I've never been afraid to paint walls but doors have always been a bit of a mystery for me. More than once I've painted a door to … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, DIY Repairs and Fixes, My Nest, Porches, Porches & Decks

The Witch is In!

October 14, 2013 by Susan 81 Comments

Welcome to the 246th Metamorphosis Monday! I last posted about the front porch when it got a good bath and was relieved of all that yucky mildew and dirt it had accumulated during the intense rains we had all summer. Afterwards, I dressed the door with a fall basket. With October almost half over, it was time to change out the basket for something with a bit more of a Halloween … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, Halloween Decor, Halloween Holiday Home, Porches, The Holiday Home Tagged With: Front Porch Decorations, Halloween, Halloween Decorating

Beautiful Victorian Home Aglow for Halloween

October 8, 2013 by Susan 38 Comments

A couple of weeks ago we visited Marie's beautiful Victorian home to see how she had decorated for Halloween. The porch was festooned with lit garland and fun Halloween bunting. It was great seeing it in the daylight... ...because it gave us a chance to really see all the fun details awaiting guests and trick or treaters. But we wondered, "What does it look like at night?" Several of … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Halloween Decor, Halloween Holiday Home, Porches, The Holiday Home

Goodbye Mildew and Mold, Hello Shiny Clean Porch!

October 7, 2013 by Susan 63 Comments

Welcome to the 245th Metamorphosis Monday! Recently I shared an update to the front porch area of my home when I added two boxwood topiaries on either side of the porch. From a distance the porch looked pretty clean in the photos. If you look closely though, you'll see grayish streaks on the columns and the molding around the door. This spring and summer has been the wettest I've ever known … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Before & After, DIY Repairs and Fixes, Porches