Welcome to the Porch!

Today I thought I’d share a little about the porch that is the namesake for this blog, Between Naps on the Porch.

Screened in Porch with White Wicker Furniture

 

First, take a look at the “Before” picture.  The deck shown below is what used to be, where the porch is now. It was an original deck that had been added onto by a previous homeowner. Unfortunately, the addition wasn’t done properly and many more supports were used underneath than necessary. So when you looked out of the basement/terrace level windows, your view was blocked by support posts everywhere.

Plus, the deck had been neglected so badly, it was really beyond recovery. One day, out of desperation to improve the appearance, I scrubbed the deck down with an industrial-strength deck cleaner and “painted” the surface and rails with a solid stain meant for decks. It looked better but the solid stain on the deck boards did not wear well as you can see in the pic below. It was obvious the old deck just really needed to be replaced.

 

Time for a change…actually PAST time for a change! The old deck was torn off and replaced with an 18′ X 14′ screened-in porch and two small decks.

Now, for the next few minutes, no matter where you are, or how cold it might be outside, it will be summer again.  Right now, for just a while, winter is all gone.  Sit back, relax, and feel the breezes…out here on the porch.

As you pass through the door from the family room…

Building a Screened-in Porch

 

…this is your first view of the porch.

Shortly after the completion of the porch last spring, the porch just didn’t “feel” quite the way I had envisioned. Do you ever do that…stand in a room and know something is missing but you aren’t quite sure what it is? It felt as if the “edges” of the porch were too hard. I wanted the porch to feel softer, like the wonderful breezes I could feel swirling through on those blue-sky days. Then it hit me—wonder how sheers would look?

I went shopping with the intention of not spending too much, just in case my experiment didn’t work or they didn’t hold up. I found sheers for only $5 per panel at Walmart.  It took 10 sheers to surround the porch in softness. The rods cost around $50 so for $100 I completely transformed the look and feel of the porch that day.

Building a Screened-in Porch

I had the porch wired for music when it was under construction. When you are in the kitchen or family room and you step through the doors out onto the porch, the music continues seamlessly with what you are hearing inside. (One of the “outdoor” speakers is visible in the picture above.)

Building a Screened-in Porch

Seating group with porch swing…

Building a Screened-in Porch

This wicker oval table is the only vintage piece on the porch.

Building a Screened-in Porch

The ceiling reaches to 12 feet at it highest point. The fans are exterior grade…made by Hunter. It is important to buy exterior grade fans when purchasing them for an open room or porch. Otherwise, the humidity will eventually cause the blades to droop and frequently the fans will cease to work.

Building a Screened-in Porch

I found these in a “wicker” look that was just right for the porch.

Building a Screened-in Porch

One of Max’s favorite places to nap.  I took this pic just as a nice breeze fanned out the sheer.

There are screened doors on either end of the porch, each leading onto a deck. This is a view standing at one of those doors looking across the room. I covered the porch swing chains with covers designed to cover electrical cords from Hobby Lobby..so much better than seeing the raw chain.

Building a Screened-in Porch

It was just starting to get a little darker when this pic was taken. I had the porch wired with lots of electrical outlets to allow for plenty of lamplight in the evenings. I’m not a big fan of overhead lighting and didn’t purchase any for the ceiling fans for that reason. The deck you see off the other end of the porch is open overhead and has a space for the grill on one section and a table with an umbrella on the other.

The other deck has a pergola overhead. I found the candlelier at Smith & Hawken.

Building a Screened-in Porch

I tried to create different spaces for different moods. Sometimes it’s nice to enjoy the stars and trees from under the pergola.  Sometime it’s nice to sit under an umbrella, especially on a hot summer day. And when the mosquitoes decide I’m on the menu, it’s time to head for the porch.

Building a Screened-in Porch

A cozy corner for reading or blogging…

Building a Screened-in Porch

Dragonflies have landed on the ficus tree behind the swing.

Building a Screened-in Porch

A little candlelight…

Building a Screened-in Porch

Found this table at Pier 1 and it turned out to be just the right size for this space.

Building a Screened-in Porch

Gardenias from my gardenia bush–oh, how I miss those.  Hurry up summer!

Building a Screened-in Porch

Found this hutch in an antique/thrift store and painted it 3 shades of green before I finally got it the shade I wanted.  You’ll find the tutorial for painting of the hutch, HERE.

Building a Screened-in Porch

An old shabby chair makes a great plant stand for summer.

Building a Screened-in Porch

The flooring you see is a pine, tongue and groove, exterior grade, pressured treated flooring. It’s designed for areas such as this…porches. It’s called KDAT (Kiln Dried After Treatment). That means that after the wood was pressured treated (like decking is done) it was kiln dried to extract most of the moisture back out.

Most screened-in porches have regular decking with gaps in between, just like you see out on a deck. During my “research” phase, I read mosquitoes can find their way up between those cracks. Doesn’t that sort of defeat the purpose of a screened-in porch?  I didn’t want to use screening under the floor boards because it tends to trap debris, and eventually I may have a patio area under the porch coming out from the basement.

After some research my contractor found this flooring. So far it has held up beautifully. It even sat for 3 days, covered in snow, in an unfinished, unstained state, right after it was installed. I was worried but once the snow melted, it was just fine. To make sure it didn’t warp, the installers both glued and nailed it down to the thick, heavy-duty sub-flooring underneath.

The sheers add so much to the experience of being out on the porch. Not only can you feel the breezes, but the sheers let you see them, too.

Building a Screened-in Porch

Sit down and stay awhile…let’s have a cookie and some sweet iced tea.

Building a Screened-in Porch

Thinking about adding a screened-in porch to your home?  You’ll find a post with 9 great features to include when building a screened-In porch, HERE.

Building a Screened-in Porch
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Comments

  1. Oh, I loved seeing these pictures, Susan. Your porch is truly a wonderful room–warm and beautiful, just like its owner. I’m excited for you about HGTV!!

    I’ve got to ask about those soup bowls–they are gorgeous!

  2. Unbelievable! You are so talented. You really should be on HGTV! I love doing home dec projects and you are certainly inspiring.

  3. Barb @ GritsandGlamour says

    Please excuse the mess while I wipe away all my slobber from your porch! LOL We were supposed to have built on a screened porch when we added a room addition, but ran out of money along the way. Its still planned, just not sure when. :-/ Seeing this makes me want it all the more. I loved your story line, and my fave pics are those with the lamps. I love lamp light at dusk. I bet your kitties enjoy this space as much or more as you. HGTV!!! Very exciting! I did several shows many years ago and it was fun! I hope they are able to use your porch in some capacity so all can see and share what we have had the pleasure of seeing here. Thanks!

  4. prof en retraite says

    Hi Susan…I am so glad that you were chosen by HGTV. It is an honor well-deserved! And your porch…well, I am sooo lucky to have actually been there! The pictures can only hint at how beautiful it really is…especially the floor!!! Thanks so much for sharing with everyone!…hugs…Debbie

  5. Omah's Helping Hands says

    What a beautiful porch. Thanks for the nap in the sunshine, and the cookies and tea were simply delicious! Made me homesick for good old Minnesota back in the woods.
    I can see why HGTV would like to feature your porch. I hope they eventually do it. Get that video sent in! Thanks for sharing. Would you consider redesigning my home and patio? 😉

    I’m sorry to hear about Jake. It’s not easy losing a beloved pet. I’ve really enjoyed the tour.

  6. English Cottage in Georgia says

    So sorry about Jake – dogs make us better people. They are so wonderful and so missed when no longer with us.
    What a compliment to be picked and asked to be on HGTV!
    Your porch is absolutely divine. Every possible porch need solution has been planned and created.
    You have a wonderful sense of color and decorating – what a gift!

  7. Thoroughly wonderful, I am ready to move in!! We have sort of done a very makeshift version of this, lol. I will show what I mean sometime. But thanks for all the good tips , hints etc. Good to know. So are the windows with glass or all just screened in? I am loving it all!
    Linda

  8. Your porch is beautiful! How do you keep everything so white & clean (especially during pollen season)? Now, I'm off to have some sweet tea w/ you! LOL!

  9. Kristens Creations says

    I wish my little 10×10 patio looked like this!lol! I don’t think that would be possible. I just love this porch, it’s just beautiful. Thanks for stopping by and and checking out my new vases. I thought they were a great find especially for the price! Kristen

  10. Pat@Back Porch Musings says

    Hi Susan
    I love your porch. It is absolutely gorgeous. It’s the screened porch, I dream of.

    Congratulations on the invitation from HGTV. Ironically, when I was writing my post for Rhoda’s event, the story of the first makeover, ended with an invitation from HGTV, which we also declined, due to J’s cancer journey last year and our camera shyness.

    Again, I can’t tell you how much I truly love your porch!

  11. I’m so taking the picture of the pergola off here so I can give it to the contractors and they can see what I want on the back deck. You know, after the granite, bonus, and other remodels get done.

    FYI, sometime between March 14 and 20, you and I are making a Classy Flea run.

  12. I am so glad you were able to bring your vision and dreams to fruition. As anyone that has ever dealt with a contractor can attest, things seldom go smoothly.

    And of course there are things that even the contractor cannot control like the weather or employees that don’t show when scheduled. It has to be a tremendous relief just to have the project completed.

    If you are meant to be on HGTV, fear not, it will happen. It was indeed an honor to just be approached. It is clear that they can recognize an inspiration when they see one.

  13. Valerie@travelingthrough2 says

    What a wonderful place, I so wish I was there. It is 3 degrees here, but at least we are above 0 finally!
    Valerie

  14. Thank you for the lovely, summery tour of your screened porch! It’s always been my dream to have at least a large covered porch, if not screened in too. I’ve always noticed your beautiful hardwood flooring and wondered how you could use such a product outdoors, and now we know!

    Also, again, I’m so sorry for the loss of your beloved Jake. We lost a dog, Sassy, almost four years ago and still miss her so.

    Can’t wait to see your hutch project on MM!

  15. Only in my dreams could I ever have something like this porch. How do you keep it so clean, I had white furniture on my covered patio once and it drove me nuts trying to keep it clean.

    Hugs,
    Chris

  16. This is so gorgeous. What a wonderful place to relax, refresh and dream. Congratulation on being picked by HGTV, definitely send that tape in. And so sorry about Jake, it is so hard to lose a beloved pet, especially after 12 years. They are such a huge part of what makes a house a home. Hugs, Kathy

  17. Southern Lady says

    Exquisite, Perfection, Classic Elegance, the epitome of Southern Living and Hospitality … all of these words come to mind when looking at your lovely porch.

    You truly have an amazing talent, Susan … and looking at your pictures is like browsing through the pages of Southern Accents Magazine.

    You have my sincerest sympathy in the loss of Jake. I know how much it hurts to lose a beloved pet.

    Sincerely,

    Janie

  18. Ahh! I feel better now. Thank you.

  19. Cottage Lifestyle says

    Susan, the porch is beautiful. Thanks for sharing. I hung curtains in my screen porch after seeing how much privacy and atmosphere it added to a friend’s porch. I wish I would have thought to use sheets.

    Renee

  20. Meadowsweet Days says

    I’m looking out this morning on a rainy, dreary January day, and the lovely pictures of your porch, and curtains blowing in the breeze just make us all dream of the lovely summer days ahead….. soon I hope! Thank you so much for sharing this with all of us, Susan. Truly lovely!

    Carol

  21. Susan, I am in LOVE with your porch. I live in NW part of town and want to come up and swing on your swing and go to the Classy Flea. I will bring the cake and cookies. I read your blog every day and tell all the gals that your house should be on Tour. Thank you for sharing your lovely home with all of us.

  22. Nothing but Southern Hospitality at its best from you!! Your posts and pictures are always the best. Thanks for sharing your porch with us!! Sorry you didn’t make it on HGTV – I’m sure you will another time.

  23. Momovthree says

    The first thing I want to say is how sorry I am about the loss of your sweet baby. We had a sweet greyhound named Holly that died of cancer going on three years now. Three years later and as the date is approaching I find myself thinking of her and choking back tears. We miss her terribly.

    Your porch is so beautiful! We dream of an area like that here and I know some day it will happen. Your porch will always be an inspiration to me and I can’t wait to see the hutch in its “before” state! Michelle

  24. It’s gorgeous…I’m speechless! Please come help me redecorate my house! 😉

  25. cityfarmer says

    ALTHOUGH IT’S 10 DEGREES OUT, I’M TEMPTED TO GO SIT ON MY PORCH

  26. southerninspiration says

    Three words for you, my dear…..

    COME DO MINE!!!! It’s spectacular, and really should be on HGTV, so get busy! I am just floored at how beautiful it all is. It looks perfect and I dream of days like that to sit out on the porch and relax!!
    Thanks for the tour!
    Suzanne

  27. the pleasures of homemaking says

    It’s just gorgeous! Our contractor suggested adding screening underneath the floor which is what we did and it works very well. We occassionally get a crawling insect that can squirm it’s way inbetween things, but so far no mosquitos or bees.

    I’m so sorry about your Golden. We have one too and they are such wonderful loving dogs.

    Manuela

  28. Laura Ingalls Gunn says

    What amazing transformations ~ well done ~ thunderous applause from Phoenix!

    I am so sorry to hear about Jake.

  29. Congratulations on HGTV.You deserve to be on there.This porch,as I’ve told you,is the prettiest porch in the world…Ann

  30. Susan I certainly needed this sunny spot this morning to sit on your swing and warm up; it’s freezing here in Indiana with a few snow showers. This porch is so lovely and it deserves to be on RMS and the tv show. A couple of questions for you:
    1. our porch is not screened it, what are the pro’s now that you have screened it in,
    2. Do the electric lamps get wet?
    3. How about the wood furniture; does it get wet?
    4. The table place sittings, I have seen them in destin when we did a family vacation some years back; we visited a small store their but I don’t remember the name. They are beautiful. I love the flair of the bowl and the design. Gosh, I should have purchased them, back then you could carry just about anything on the plane with an extra charge. Love the visit on the porch.
    Blossom

  31. Lady Katherine says

    How wonderful you for your porch to be on HGTV! Your porch has the Southern Charm. You have made it so lovely and so many areas to enjoy. Love the sheers with the white wicker. Just all very lovely and a lot of tender loving care went into your porch.

  32. I’m so sorry to hear about Jake. 🙁

    Thank you for the inspiration photos of your porch. Mine’s getting there, and after seeing your sheers, I really think I will hang some in mine.

  33. Glenda/MidSouth says

    Absolutely beautiful! I would love to have a porch like that. Congratulations on your offer from HGTV. Very sorry to hear about your dog.

  34. Rhoda @ Southern Hospitality says

    Oh, Susan, you have my DREAM porch! I'm truly wishing & dreaming for a porch like that one day. It's just gorgeous, truly one of the prettiest porches I've ever seen. I have all the wicker saved for my porch whenever I get one. We have a deck now that I'd love to convert to a nice screened porch, one day.

    You did an amazing job with everything out there. I know you must enjoy it all the time. Truly a haven and retreat. Hope you get to be on HGTV!

  35. Cami @ Creating Myself says

    I’m speechless!

    You’re one lucky woman to have such a reteat right outside your family room.!

  36. I love your porch it inspires me for this summer to revamp mine. You should be on Hgtv. Excellant job. mishelle

  37. Cindy ~ My Romantic Home says

    Wow, that is gorgeous! I don’t think I would get anything done…I would just want to sit out there on that porch! It is so beautiful!

    Get that tape in! Being an inspiration room on Rate my Space was one of the best experiences of my life! It was more fun than I expected it to be! If you don’t do it, you may look back and regret it!

  38. What a beautiful post! I think you should get that paper work in.

  39. Mary Ellen (megardengal) says

    How fun about HGTV! I so enjoyed visiting you porch again! I don’t get over to RMS much anymore but your porch was one of my favorite regular stops! THis is what I want my sun room in my 09 projects to look like!

    blessings
    mary

  40. Elizabeth (Northern01 on rms) says

    I loved your porch before, but I am stunned now. The only problem- I don’t have one 🙁 What beautiful spaces to relax, alone or with company. Thank you so much for sharing it all with us.

  41. PS I forgot two things.One:Well deserved to be called by HGTV.Hopefully they will be able to use your room in the near future.I think they could use your whole house as inspiration for the tv audience.The other is I just notice the color of your hutch looks just like my Kitchen Cupboards,I used Pratt and Lamberts Northern Green, what did you use on your hutch?Kathysue

  42. Could I possibly be more enamored with ANY room I have ever seen? NOOOO, I could not. You have such a way with the ‘total’ picture’, all the finishing touches. It’s magical… every little thing. I cannot believe your inexpensive find with the sheers at Walmart. It only makes sense, since the weather will eventually get to any fabric. You have to be on HGTV..so we can all say “we know her!” 20 stars Susan, 20 stars! Bravo, Jan

  43. I have been waiting for this wonderful post since you announced you were doing it and you sure do NOT disappoint! I SOOOO love your porch and thank you for giving us all some pointers and details. I hope someday to have a screened in porch too. You are my inspiration for sure! I wondered about the furniture and floors getting wet in rain and/or snow. I assume you bring things in, in the winter????? I will come back cause I can’t listen to the music right now, my DH is sleeping in the next room and don’t want to disturb him…am even trying to type silently:):) Hugs, Pinky

  44. PS, forgot to say CONGRATULATIONS on being picked for RMS. And I am so sorry about your beloved dog.

  45. The Cozy Parsonage says

    Thank you so much for posting this -I love your porch it is a great inspiration! I love it!!!

  46. FRENCH LAUNDRY says

    Oh my goodness, I LOVE that porch! Serendipity in blogland brought me here and I think one of those linky things will bring me back again! Can’t wait to see more.

    All the best,
    Judy

  47. Terri and Bob says

    I am certain I could sleep peacefully right there. If you decide you need to rent some space for a little xtra income… be sure and call me first. This is totally lovely and so worth waiting for. I hope someday I can do a porch like this, too!

  48. Your porch and pictures are beautiful. Never seen anything like it. What a beautiful way to live.

  49. I would LOVE to do the same to our deck (sigh) but there are too many inside projects waiting…it will end up at the bottom of the list!

    Stop by my blog..I have left you a little something at http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/2009/01/moi.html

  50. Melissa Wertz says

    This is gorgeous! I would move out there and never want to go back inside.

  51. Wanderluster says

    Oh my, this is my favourite Before & After on the tour so far! What a beautiful porch – I love the cozy, breezy feeling you've created. I'll definitely have to save this as inspiration for when I do my own porch this summer. Thanks for posting!

  52. Your porch is beautiful. Thanks so much for the tour. Besides being incredibly talented, you are just too funny. I really do hope you make the tape and send it in to RMS. I did it and it was fun, but I also have a little secret that I need to “fess” up. The idea of making the tape was somewhat duanting, having never made a tape before. Just finding a camera to use was an ordeal. But, having gotten through all that and making the final “cut” at RMS I was given a “shoot” date a couple of weeks in advance. Well, I told every single friend, family member and anyone who would listen, had my hair done, cleaned my home top to bottom several times just to be sure, tried on every single piece of clothing in my closet, searching for the one thing that would make me look the youngest and slimmest possible. You get the picture. Anyway, we were all set and the producer Dan was coming from California to tape. The day before the “big day” I awoke with the most awful pains in my stomach. By the end of the day I was at the hospital getting a cat scan, a diagnosis of diverticulitis, and a doctor telling me I needed to be hospitalized. I begged him to just give me as much medication as possible so I could get through the next day, after which I would head to the hospital. He finally agreed, thinking of course that I was crazy. I didn’t tell anyone about any of this except my husband, who also thought I was crazy. Anyway, looking at the show now I really believe I should receive the academy award this year. That’s it – my secret is out. In spite of the craziness I would do it all again in a minute. It really was a lot of fun. Jeanette (jfell on RMS)

  53. Sandra~Romantique Inspirations~ says

    Oh my goodness, I can’t say enough on how lovely your porch is. Just GORGEOUS! I dream of having a porch like that one day. You did a fabulous job.. The sheers really do the trick. I use them as well, believe it or not from walmart too.

  54. I absolutely loved your porch! I have always dreamed of having a screened in porch….sigh…I too, dislike overhead lighting. I have table lamps everywhere…..Thanks for showing us all those great pictures! Do you have any old stuff you want to get rid of?LOL
    ginny

  55. I love your porch! You have such a wonderful talent, thanks so much for sharing it with us!

    Cyndy

  56. Linda at Lime in the Coconut! says

    Oh boy…just pass me a lemonade and some cookies. This porch is SPECTACULAR!! Great pics too!

    …especially love the first pic with who must be jake…white faced and elegant!

    Beautiful!! Found you through Rhoda’s Partay!!!

  57. I don’t even have words for your porch. It is simply breathtaking…makes me want to curl on read a good book.

  58. That last line really drew me in! “There is no winter here”. I spent about 20 minutes looking at the pictures…and I know I could spend hours acutually on the porch. Send that video in,( or maybe you just want to have this sanctuary all to yourself)….I wouldnt blame you.~Cindy~

  59. Susan, Your talents are amazing! I fully expect to see you not just on an episode of HGTV, but with your own show! Thanks for the tour of your beautiful porch. Pam (pam25)

  60. O.k. all I can say is that I hope Martha Stewart never finds your blog, poor thing would likely throw herself out a window!!! Man you are good!!!! Oh and btw, you make me hate my house…shame, shame!!

  61. Hi Susan 🙂

    Your whole home is beautiful, but that porch has always been my favorite. No wonder somebody wanted it for inspiration!

    They wanted my foyer too, I think you know that, but like Pat, I’m too shy and private. Funny that I blog about my life LOL

    rue

  62. cedwards55 says

    Susan, You know that your porch and Sweet Jake is how we first bonded. This will always be a special place in my heart. I sit in your porch swing all the time thanks to the Virtual World we all live in. I have an idea, how about I tell RMS that I NEED a screened porch for John’s graduation party? You know we’ll need someplace to party in case of rain. Trust me, that’s the only way it’s gonna happen in my world! Left you a really long comment on that gorgeous china on TT yesterday and it wouldn’t let me post. What’s up with that? Anyway, I couldn’t wait for the SECRET!!!!!! Congrats and can’t think of anyone more deserving for a little fame and applause! Fire up the camcorder, GF!

  63. I am so sorry about your dog Jake.
    I wrote of my dogs passing here:
    http://lbratina.blogspot.com/2007/07/in-memory-of-tesla.html

    Maybe it will help.Animals are family.

    I LOVE your blog. Am now a follower. I am so inspired. I love your porch.

  64. Your porch is what dreams are made for. It is the most beautiful porch/room I’ve ever seen!!!

  65. The Quintessential Magpie says

    This is so lovely, Susan! Absolutely wonderful. I would live out here! You did a great job!

    XO,

    Sheila 🙂

  66. Lamp Tramp says

    How amazing and beautiful is your porch? Well, it leaves most of us just drooling. No surprise you’ll be featured on HGTV. Let us know when episode airs. Love your blog and all your tablescapes, truly inspiring. Hoe do you find time to do all this if you work full time????

  67. moooove over, i wanna come take a nap on your porch.
    Love It !!!!

    Marianne

  68. Susan,
    You are such an inspiring person! You visualized something…and then got busy! 🙂
    Every room in your house is welcoming and UPLIFTING! I think everyone is like me…we just want to sit in your home (or on your porch) and have a cup of coffee with you! 🙂
    I am soooo happy you pursued the table at Pier 1…very pretty and perfect for your porch!
    The sheers were just pure genius! Just shows how much talent and imagination you have!
    So glad you featured “your baby” here! 🙂
    L~

  69. What a beautiful porch! Okay, ice storm be gone. I’m ready for spring!

  70. laurie @ bargain hunting says

    Susan, I always love visiting your beautiful porch. And it was wonderful getting more details about it. What a secret you’ve been keeping! Your porch (heck, your whole house) certainly deserves to be on HGTV. Get that video done! I want to be able to say “I knew her when” (that’s before you became a big shot). laurie

  71. You did an amazing job creating such a beautiful outdoor space.I would love to sit there for a spell.The shears were a great idea also.
    Carolyn

  72. Susan~ your porch is just wonderful. I especially enjoy your attention to detail like your sheers, the fireflies on the ficus, the lamps, the chain covers on your swing, the pretty pillows….and on and on! I can definetly see why it would be an inspiration to anyone. So I encourage you to make the type for RMS. Maybe it could even be dedicated to your beloved Jake.

  73. Ma'dame French says

    I don’t know what to say I am speechless! This is truly breathtaking! You have it so warm and cozy and well everything! French;)

  74. Susan (Between Naps on the Porch) says

    I’ll try to answer a few questions here…I don’t bring things in during the winter since we have so many unusually warm days here, that I still do enjoy the porch some during the winter. I may bring the cushions in for Jan and Feb. Chris, the porch stays pretty clean, probably ’cause it’s a full story up in the air. About once a month, I wipe things down…takes about 15 minutes. I also vacuum it about once a month. Pollen season is the worse time. I will probably cover the cushions during that time, just to help protect them a bit. I am anticipating replacing the cushions every few years, but not sure about that yet…they still look good at this point, after 1 year’s use. Joyce, we need to have a little spring/summer party for all the bloggers who live in this area…everyone bring a dish and we’ll have a grand ole party! 🙂
    Kathysue, the paint on the hutch is a custom match (to placemats) and it’s exterior grade Behr. I’ll share more on that in an upcoming Met Monday…probably the second Met Monday post I do.
    Blossom, I do love that the porch is screened…pro being no bugs or mosquitoes munching on me in the summer. 🙂 I purposedly didn’t glass it in…really wanted a screened porch. The only time rain comes in on the porch is if we have “tornado” type rains or strong blowing rains, which happens about 3-4 times a year. Then it only comes about 2 feet in. So far, it hasn’t been a problem. The swing, sette and two chairs that form the seating group over by the screen are all outdoor wicker so they can take anything, but they have never gotten wet. The table and chairs around the table are pretty protected, too. The only thing I worry with is the oval table and if I know a “tornado” type rain is coming I move it inward. It’s been rained on a few times though and has done fine. The top has a thick marine type varnish which probably helps. The sheers get a little wet and dry very quickly…almost instantly. Oh, and Blossom, the electrical outlets…they are outlets made for exterior use with special covers. The only lamp that is near an outside edge of the porch is the wicker lamp on the oval table…so far, no problems at all. 🙂 Hope I didn’t miss anyone’s question. Feel free to e-mail me at [email protected] with you individual questions.

  75. Your beautiful home was one of the first I found on RMS that I loved. And you introduced me to the blogworld through your comment postings on RMS. We replaced our old ugly wooden deck last year with a screened in porch and deck. Actually it is similar to yours in size except we have only one deck / one door to the porch. It was my dream to have a screened in porch and I just love it. The only thing my hubby asked was that I don’t junk it up with too much furniture so it doesn’t look like yours. We have a round table and four chairs, plus two reading chairs. We chose to have ceiling lighting in each corner (on a dimmer) and one white exterior ceiling fan (Hunter) also with a light (on a dimmer). I even had the porch light put on a dimmer. We added two electrical outlets to the porch area. We went with composite material (white railings with tan tops) and a composite smooth flooring that is attached together seamless (so no cracks to let bugs in). I have to clean the porch and deck at least weekly. We have a dusting of yellow pollen in the summertime that covers everything. As much as I love all the beautiful things you have on your porch I don’t think I could do that on ours. It would be too difficult to clean everything. We are so pleased with how our porch shades the back of our house (the south side) and makes the kitchen more comfortable on those hot sunny days. We also had Pella french doors (slider) put in our kitchen that lead out to the porch. I sit here and can’t believe that the porch is ours. Thanks again for sharing your lovely home with us. I just love seeing pictures of it.

    Teacup Lady (Sandy)

  76. imjacobsmom says

    Susan, I was waiting for the day when your porch would be featured on HGTV’s RMS. You should go ahead and make that tape. ~ Robyn

  77. Do it yourselfer says

    omgosh, you totally need to do HGTV. i love your porch and want it! absolutely beautiful!

  78. Raggedy Girl says

    How incredibly fortunate you are to have such a lovely place to enjoy. You did a beautiful job with the planning and the decorating. Thank you so much for sharing it with us. I love the colors.
    Roberta Anne

  79. salmagundi says

    Don’t you wonder how you ever got along without a screened-in porch? Mine is not near as classy as yours, but we sure enjoy it. Looking forward to the new Met Monday. Sally

  80. Mitzi Zohar says

    Your photographs and your home are remarkable! Just beautiful and welcoming. Could you please come style my house and bring a little of that Southern breeze to cold snowy Toronto too?

  81. Wow, wow, wow, thank you for sharing photos of your porch with us it is just stunning.
    Cheers Linda

  82. ~ ~ Ahrisha ~ ~ says

    Just stunning! I could move right in.

  83. Wowzer Susan! I love this porch. I love how you share all these wonderful details …..BUT you should know I LOVE the MUSIC on your blog!!!! I FREQUENTLY I just set my computer to your blog and just let your music choices waft through my house…..for hours! Thank you for all your efforts to make this such a special blog!

  84. Noting but gorgeous! I am so impressed with the details. Beautiful! Nancy

  85. That is THE most beautiful porch. Oh my you must be in heaven enjoying that space. Simply beautiful
    Becky

  86. What an inspiration for me to do more with my screened in portion of my porch. It is all so pretty and lovely, I can see why HGTV wanted to come. Truly beautiful. I am so very sorry about your dog and I understand completly.

  87. Susan (Between Naps on the Porch) says

    Jeanette…thanks so much for sharing that story. That sounds JUST like something that would happen to me! LOL You DO deserve an academy award! When did your show air…will it air again in rerun? I’d love to see it. I also, have a confession to make. I watch maybe an hour of t.v. a week, if you added it all together…not even sure why I have cable. I’d much rather be blogging or reading or gardening. But I’d definitely watch to see your home, so let me know if it runs again. Everyone has really inspired me to get with it and make the tape. 🙂 Susan

  88. Jadehollow says

    Susan.. Your lil piece of heaven is as I expected ! Breath Taking!! Thank you so much for stopping by and for the well wishes .. I’m feeling so much better today!
    I’m so glad Barbara figured out how to leave you a message.. I knew she’d love your blog. She is very precious and will light up your days with her encouraging comments and messages.
    ~Blessed Hugs
    Debbie

  89. ~CC Catherine says

    Susan, First of all, when is your book coming out? Can you please enclose a CD with the music you play on the blog so that when I read it, I still get the same affect? 8=) You are “spot on” for opening the door and escorting us in to your home for a visit! Uncanny “natural”, you are… Please, let’s have a Blog Gathering on your porch when summer comes, I’ll bring TWO dishes! Don’t forget to leave the nightlite on the porch for those late night meanderings… You have a LOVELY porch of serenity and “Summer Breezes”. ~CC Catherine

  90. ~CC Catherine says

    Susan, LOVELY porch! You have a natural gift of written narration with awesome background music! When you write your first book, make sure you include a CD with these songs! Especially the really cool version of “Somewhere Over The Rainbow”, love it! Keep opening the door to your porch, many will enter; that I am sure! Wishing you many days of “Summer Breezes”, even in the winter… ~CC Catherine

  91. For me, that post was a treat as special as saving the last piece of bordeux chocolate and having it alone with a good book and a cup of tea by a beautiful picture window. I truly felt as if I was a guest in your home, with your lovely hospitatlity and cookies and sweet tea taboot! What a lovely home you have. I have a porch that I have for 15 years wanted to screen in. This may do the trick!
    Thank you!

  92. Susan … I can only say that everyone from coast to coast deserves to step into the splendor that is your porch. Get going with the video so we can say “we knew you when….”

  93. Your porch is absolutely georgeous! I can’t wait to show it to my husband! We designed and built our Colonial house 10 yrs ago and we still haven’t built the porch to the side of the house. I would love to have a porch that big. Cross your fingers and send up prayers that I can talk my husband into getting that done this year! We have built a playhouse for my daughter, a big barn and a really big wooden swing set for the kids now it is my turn for the really big screen in porch!

  94. I just spent over an hour on YOUR BLOG!!!!!!!!!! You are awesome! Thank you for all you do for us. I think you must be Wonder Woman to get all of this done!

  95. Dixie's Whimsey says

    Susan… Just as magnificent as I had expected… Beautiful!

  96. beth at aunties says

    Susan,

    Absolutely perfection! Your porch took my breath away with its elegance. It felt like an open invitation to come in and enjoy one’s self. It seriously is like realxing inside a decorator magazine heaven! I can truly see why HGTV is not giving up on you.

    You have been blessed with some serious talent! Thanks for the lovely visit and before I leave I want you to know I am so sorry your lost your beloved Jake.

  97. Kathy2eggs says

    I can’t have a porch, but now I know what I want to do to our unused front room….I found sheers, now to find the furniture!
    I love it…

  98. Hi Susan…HGTV knows a winner when they see one…I hope you do find the time to send them the info they want so we can see “our” Susan on TV! I think I could live on your porch…it is so restful…
    Lovely, lovely post… 😉 Bo

  99. Hadley Coble says

    I want to come sit on the beautiful porch and have some cookies and tea! you did a fabulous job!

  100. Suzie Button says

    Hi Susan, First of all I am so sorry about your loss of a beloved pet! I have dogs I adore, so I really understand! Second, your porch is just fabulous, I can see why HGTV would come calling!
    Thanks for stopping by my blog, I added links on my post about my job as a broadcast captioner. If you want to know more, just revisit the post about the harlem globetrotters and you can click on the links to learn more. Thanks for stopping by! Suzie

  101. nikkicrumpet says

    I fell in love with your porch the first time I saw it on RMS. If I had a place like that I’d never want to leave. I could live my whole life on your porch and be a happy camper! It’s not just that it’s an amazing space…it’s that you filled each part of it with charm, and soft cozy goodness. It’s beautiful and welcoming and just a magical place. It will always be one of my most favorite spaces I’ve ever seen!

  102. Alisa Lucas-Brown says

    Susan,
    What a beautiful gift God has given you. I adore your porch. So gorgeous – you certainly have designed a wonderful space – so relaxing and peaceful.
    I have a Sunroom and but I think I would like a Screened Porch. You have inspired me Susan. Thanks for sharing your lovely home.

  103. Oh Susan I just want to put on my jean cut offs and white t. Run my warm bare feet across the floors drink some of that tea and read a book on that swing! Of course you will have to put my Geirge Winston Summer CD in for me if it isn’t too much trouble! Just so lovely! Can you please share the source for your door basket? I have been searching for some like it since summer and I am coming up empty handed. Thanks
    ~KD

  104. Linda/ "Mom..." says

    Sweetie, I think dearest Jake would be "happy" if his "Mom" shared "his" porch with lovers of this home he enjoyed so much… I really DO!!! And, I'm glad you're going to get back on the stick and "just DO it" & be on HGTV!!! I loved reading & seeing this all, of course~~~ know you enjoy it all and it's fun, but also realize the amount of TIME it takes to put all this together for everyone to enjoy, and it IS MUCHO APPRECIATED, dear friend!!! Big hugs n' thanks, Linda (& Belle, too)

  105. Wow! So much to take in! Your porch is to die for! I LOVE IT!

    So sorry about your loss of your beloved Jake! I understand as I have been through it a couple of times….it is so hard!

    God Bless and thanks for this wonderful post!

  106. Stunning! Those sheers were the perfect touch! I am so happy for you being chosen for HGTV that is an honor and says volumes about your decorating style!
    I am so happy for you!!
    God Bless you!! I love this blog!!

  107. Melissa Miller says

    Hi Susan, ~WOWEE! 🙂
    This is truly a masterpiece in Southern charm and elegance.
    Please put this on HGTV one day soon. It is beyond awesome and many more people should see it.

    Sorry about Jake…:(
    I lost both my Shih-stzu boys five years ago this month and it still hurts. I can relate…No new dog for us yet either. I just can’t bring myself to get one yet.

    Thanks again for hosting TT. I feel like I have met many sweet bloggers through your wonderful ideas. Very nice.

    Have a great day. ~Melissa 😉

  108. Miss Janice says

    Susan, this porch of yours is simply amazing…everything about is so appealing! You definitely should have this porch in a magazine or on TV. Stunning…I can’t say enough about it!

  109. Susan-I absolutely LOVE your porch. It was one of the first pictures I saw on RMS and lead me to find your blog. I have always wanted a screened porch and yours will be the standard I go by…if it ever happens. I read your blog everyday and have gotten so many great ideas. Your are truly talented. I live in Acworth and everytime I think I need to have decorating help I think of you! I love every room your house! Do you make house calls? 🙂 Thanks for posting on RMS and leading me to discover blogland. I don’t have a blog, but now have many favorites I keep up with. Will look for you on HGTV! Linda in Acworth

  110. If I had plenty of money, I’d build a screened porch and hire you to decorate it. Yours is absolutely beautiful.

  111. Absolutely love it! Looks amazing! And thanks for the cookie!

  112. first…sorry about the loss of your baby pooch,…we all just love our pets so dearly.

    second…congratulations on a remarkable transformation…a peaceful and serene piece of your own personal making.

    spaces are loved more (i believe) when we can become personally involved in creating them.

    i sense your joy in this post susan…and can do more than echo the accolades that have been written before me!

    i smiled when i saw the chain covers on the swing…lol…that is what is on my sewing table as i write you today!

    third…thank you for opening your heart and home.

  113. Kathleen Ellis says

    AWESOME! I so love your porch and am experiencing severe porch envy!!! You have done an outstanding job from start to finish!The white billowy sheers add a romantic elegance that I adore! I love to see this beautiful space in your posts!
    Thank you for sharing it with us!
    🙂

  114. Cynthia's Cottage Design says

    Hi Susan!

    I actually *GASPED* out loud when I saw each picture!!! 🙂 Seriously, you would have awoken from a deep sleep hearing me yell, OMG!

    I’m practically speechless, but let me try my best 🙂 OMG, IT IS THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PORCH I HAVE EVER SEEN!! 🙂

    ok, lol, I’ll calm down 🙂 Its simply Beautiful Susan, every detail has been thought of. I would say that the sheers were my favorite aspect! Just sooooo stunning!

    I did sheers outside on my porch for a party, and it made all the difference, but since I don’t have a roof on my deck, they were just draped by the door and from post to post kinda thing, I would love to close mine in someday too!

    The floor is fabulous too! and the Architecture of it is so beautifully made! Each Finishing touch you made was what gave it that “come sit and linger feel”….!!

    FAB-U-LOUS!! Thanks for posting such eye candy , you should be so proud of your talents!

    Hugs, Cynthia

  115. Stunning! IF ever there was a project that was HGTV perfect, it HAS to be this porch. Your sense of style is amazing. I love every little, well thought out detail!!!

  116. once in a blue moon... says

    your transformation is exquisite, so many darling touches i could move right in! i love bright open airy spaces like this. i am sorry for the loss your dog…

  117. Your porch is so wonderful! I really hope that when we sell this house (soon, I hope) and buy our next one, that we can have a screened in porch too. Until then – I guess I’ll just continue to visit yours! Hope to see you soon on HGTV!

    Donna

  118. The White Bench says

    Hello! I am speechless! Cannot tell you how HAPPY I am having found you! I absolutely LOOOOOVE your taste, and your home is a dream:)!!
    I have a Golden Retriever, too, I was deeply touched!
    Warmest wishes,
    Monica.

  119. Gramma Carol says

    I join the rest. Your blog spot is beautiful and the porch is perfection. How many of us dream of making a room like that! Thank you for sharing with us.

  120. GardenDesigner says

    OH MY GOODNESS! Its -5 this morning! This is just what I needed! Seriously! Thank you from the bottom of my porch swing!!

    ~giggles!
    ~Contessa Vanessa

  121. Your porch is breathtaking! I was looking for something, some sort of inspiration for our gazebo and I have found it! I want to recreate this…It’s perfect for any night or day of the year!

  122. Lilith Silvermane says

    Joanna from This Southern Girl’s Nest suggested a view of this porch.

    I’m in love!
    Just proves that when I want to cut down on the harshness… add sheers. I am going to show this to my boyfriend, he is wanting to re-do his porch… Hmmm.. perhaps a room for he and Lily this summer??

    A girl can dream!

  123. You have one of the most beautiful homes/porches I’ve ever seen. I love all your charming decorating ideas. I’m very happy to have come across your blog. Just wonderful.

  124. Julie Bouésso says

    Lovely home, Susan! Truly appears welcoming! Cheers, Julie

  125. Shirley Corwin says

    Your site is the most inspirational ones I’ve seen. Now I feel like redoing my whole house. I live in a farmhouse built in 1852. So many of your ideas would be beautiful here. Love the sheers on the porch!! Truly inviting.
    Shirley

  126. simplehappyhome says

    Well, I've just added a new room to the house I'm designing in my head! 🙂 Your porch is absolutely beautiful. The sheers are perfect. There is something very Ernest Hemingway about the dimension they add to the porch.

  127. Good Morning from *sunny* southern Manitoba, Canada!! W-O-W…just 'found' you!! What a TREAT!! Your porch is just STUNNING!! Love your postings..will look forward to checking in on you each day!! Hugs, Valerie xo

  128. Kelley at My Island Wedding says

    heaven on earth.

  129. Hola Sra, que casa tan maravillosa tiene, me paso horas mirando y admirando todo la belleza de su hogar, estoy fascinada, acá en Cba Argentina hay unas casa maravillosas también, con mucho estilo , pero en esta esquina del mundo las cosas son más europeas, más españolas, más italianas, en cambio ese estilo country maravilloso mezclado con vintage es un sueño, muy hermoso, la felicito, Chany de argentina.

  130. I absolutely LOVE your porch, your blog, your tablescapes, everything!!! You are so talented. I would love to know the name of the "Garden" dishes you feature on your back porch, please. I am a fellow dish-holic and look for the names of the patterns of all the dishes, glassware, etc. on all the blogs.
    Thanks for such a beautiful site.
    Susan

  131. Susan (Between Naps on the Porch) says

    Hi Susan,
    Thanks so much for your sweet comments! So glad to meet you! The dishes that are on the hutch out on the porch are by Tabletops Unlimited and they are designed by Darrio Farrucci. The pattern is Ma Maison. I've seen them occasionally on eBay. I purchased them at HomeGoods a couple of years ago right after I added the porch.
    Thanks again!
    Susan

  132. Vintage Sandy says

    Your porch is unbelievably beautiful I'd die for a porch like that well not really but I'd love to have it and every accessory is perfect. You certainly have the knack for decorating "BEAUTIFUL"

  133. Ticking and Toile says

    Wow Susan,
    Your porch is amazing! Have a Q for you….is it screened in? You may have mentioned that in the post but I didn't see it. Also, where did you come across all the curtain rods for such a good price? I would love to do that w/ my back patio. Thanks

    Shellagh

  134. Tennis Girl says

    Susan,
    I finally had time to sit down and look at all your pictures of your porch. It is absolutely beautiful. Everything about is perfect! Thanks for sharing this beautiful space.
    Robin
    p.s. love the kitty.:)

  135. addhumorandfaith says

    I am a first-time visitor, and have thoroughly enjoyed seeing your beautiful porch! First of all, I can relate to the "feel" because 6 years ago we moved out of the family farmhouse that I had really enjoyed decorating similar to this. But also, in this house we have a year-round sunroom which has vertical blinds that we never close. So you have inspired me! I'm now thinking I should take down those useless blinds and just put up some sheers! Love that idea. Thank you! :

    Sandra

  136. What a beautiful pictures!! I love it!
    I put some of your pictures (Beachy Tablescape) on my blog, I hope its OK!
    http://prozorudom.wordpress.com

  137. Heaven's Walk says

    Luv your porch, Susan! It's so warm and inviting – and big! 🙂 Thanks for sharing all these wonderful ideas that all of us fellow bloggers can take home with us. I look forward to reading more posts from you!

    Hugs ~

    Laurie

  138. What a lovely, cozy area! Especially love your birdhouse collection and the chandelier! Thanks bunches for the tour!

  139. Susan your porch is stunning! Who wouldn't want to take a nap there! Or have tea or dinner or cocktails or…. oh heck, can I move in? LOL! :)Thank you for sharing so many wonderful, inspiring pictures, Nan

  140. Entertaining Women says

    My daughter and son-in-love have just moved into a cute craftsman bungalow with a great front porch. I sent her a link to your website. I think that she'll adore your treatment of your screened porch, and I believe that your design choices will be an inspiration to her. Cherry Kay

  141. What a beautiful porch!!!
    I just did the same thing to my screened~in porch. A little different style but very cute…
    Thank you for always sharing with us…
    Katie,XoXo

  142. DreamgirlLisa says

    That is the most AMAZING room I have ever seen not in a magazine! I love absolutely everything you did, that would truly be my heaven on earth! Kudos to you!!

  143. The enchanted home says

    Can I come right over for a glass of lemonade and sit down with my favorite book?? OMG that porch is AMAZING and soooo inviting!!!! Absoltuely heavenly!
    I am new to "blog world" and boy there is a lot to learn…..but I am pacing myself and trying to learn a little every day. If anyone has a minute would love you to check out my new blog (4 days old and counting)
    http://www.theenchantedhome.blogspot.com

    Thanks so much and best to all in 2011!!

  144. I LOVE your porch! And I bet your sweet tea is to die for!! I so enjoy visiting your blog.

  145. I LOVE your porch! And I bet your sweet tea is to die for!! I so enjoy visiting your blog.

  146. Wendy @HerBallistic Garden says

    You know? I was on your blog a long time ago, before I started blogging and I just came onto your blog from a linky party button I saw on someone else's blog (but I've seen them on others!) and I can't believe all the ideas I just got for my screened in room! Mind you, I'll need windows to go with my screens to make it as fabulous as yours! I love the sheers, I want the floor, your flowers make me swoon, your taste is impeccable, and…well…I'm a follower now! Wow! xo

  147. Susan (Between Naps on the Porch) says

    Wendy, thanks so much! Appreciate all those kind words! Welcome to blogging…you are going to have so much fun! In case it's helpful, here's another post that details 9 features you may want to consider for your porch. These turned out to be some of my favorites! You'll find that post: HERE

  148. Chatty Chics says

    Susan, absolutely beautiful! Great job! Please come help me with mine! 🙂
    Melody
    ChattyChics.com
    PS Will you come link up and show this off on Wednesday at my place?

  149. The Oval Hospitality says

    Of course you will have to put my Geirge Winston Summer CD in for me if it isn't too much trouble! Just so lovely!
    The Oval Hospitality

  150. Your porch is amazing! I love it! Does it get wet in there when it rains though? Do you put some kind of storm window up in the winter?

  151. Susan BetweenNapsOnThePorch says

    Hi Kim, No, everything can get wet, so it doesn't hurt anything. I don't put up anything during the winter…stays the same. You'll also find more info under FAQ section about how the porch handles rain and pollen and such. 🙂

  152. Savannah Attic says

    Just so Beautiful !! I Love All the elements and design features!! I would be proudto call this My Home

  153. What a beautiful porch you have!!!! Thank you for posting such wonderful photos. It is eye candy! Just what I envision a southern porch to look like…..inviting and lovely.

  154. Karen Holder says

    I love your porch,its beautiful!!!!! so peaceful…I have one,we left it with the wood look.I want to paint it white.what are your thoughts? How do you keep it so clean?…..That’s the only thing I hate about mine is all the pollin that we have in the south

    • Hi Karen,
      I think you would love it white, although if you have a lot of trees around, you have to pressure wash it occasionally. Just click on the FAQ at the top of my sidebar and you’ll find lots of info about the porch including how I keep it clean. It gets dirty, but not too badly since it’s a story up.

  155. Love this site, I still wish I had a house so I coul;d do this stuff, but then I still can

  156. What an elegant, yet comfortable-looking space! It reminds me (though much larger and with better decorating) of the porch my dad added to the cape house he built outside Albany, NY. We’d have summer dinners out there, mom’s Tupperware gigs (!) and even sleep on a fold-out glider, listening to the crickets.

  157. Pam Hawkins says

    Just Beautiful and Inspiring. I want your porch!! Thank you for sharing the pics and the details!!!

  158. So beautiful!!! My porch is so tiny! I’m showing this to the hubs~we will figure something out!!!

  159. Susan,
    As I take my mind to a place I want to be at this early morning hour, I open my eyes and I am sitting on your porch in the swing listening to the sounds of the morning. It hits me that one can fill there space up with JOY and there is no rule..Susan, I may take a nap later but right now my mind is where it wants to be..
    Tammy

  160. Bridget Cloud says

    We are buying a home with a screened in porch so I searching the web for decorating ideas and found your blog. I LOVE your porch! I can’t wait to move now and create a retreat like you have. It looks so relaxing and I would spend my entire day in such a setting. Thank you so much for sharing your home. You have a new follower. 🙂

  161. HI Susan,
    So glad I found your blog – your porch is just lovely. We are in the planning stages of building a porch and I’m trying to figure out how much space I would need for a dining area for 6 – what is the size of your dining space??

  162. Oh my! I want to LIVE on your porch!

  163. maria - cottage feel - says

    love it, love it, love it – thx for sharing – just breath taking

  164. Wow how beautiful that porch is and i did love everything you show us. i want my porch to look something like this and that bunny in the pot i would love to have, can you buy this or show us how to make it? keep your great ideal coming. cause i am loving what you are doing!

    • Thanks, Wanda! I found the bunny in Michael’s (the craft store) about 6 years ago. A good time to look for bunnies is about a month or so before Easter. A lot of stores get them in around that time and I’ve seen similar ones in the spring and close to Easter.

  165. Having started at the beginning, I haven’t gotten far but just had to comment on this post. Sheers billowing in the breeze, tea, cookies all good, but the shot of the gardenias really got me. My mom was great at growing those. I swear I got just the faintest gardenia scent with that photo…
    (Saving my other questions/comments til the end)

  166. I know this is an old post, but I have a question about your gorgeous porch.
    How often do you have to wash, or replace, the sheers? Also, when it rains/storms, how wet do the fabric elements on the porch get? Basically, how do you maintain fabric, on an open/screened porch? I’d love to do something like this, but am wary of the upkeep.
    Thanks!

    • Thanks, Tammy! I don’t currently have the sheers up, I took them down to wash and just left them off the last time, but I did have them up for many, many years. I still have them so I’m tempted to put them up again.
      Because they are nylon or some type of nylon/acrylic type fabric, they dried within minutes after a rain storm, so they were pretty maintenance-free. Every couple of years I removed them to just give them a wash, normally after spring and after the pollen had passed.
      The cushions on the furniture came from various places and have held up well, though I don’t think any are “outdoor” fabrics. When it rains, it only comes in a couple of feet around the porch, so everything stays dry normally. I don’t baby anything, leave it out all winter.
      The settee and swing cushion are from Pier 1, the dining chair cushions are from Kohls and the two chair cushions in the seating group were from GardenRidge, I think. All the cushions have been out on the porch full time since 2008 when I added the porch on…so almost 10 years now. So it’s probably about time I thought about replacing them.
      You can read more about the porch and some of the FAQ here: https://betweennapsontheporch.net/faq/

  167. Thank you very much, Susan!

  168. christy ELDER says

    Everything is so beautiful. Great job.

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