This year was odd. This Christmas was different. This week is our 8th wedding anniversary, and we will be enjoying Thai take out and a virtual Dock Street Theatre performance of A Christmas Carol. I don't know what to expect for New Years, but I suspect our celebrations will involve pajamas and bed by 9p. I'm okay with that.
We did try our best to prepare for the cold weather and outdoor, distanced visits this holiday season. We decided a month or so ago we were going to build a large patio in our backyard, complete with fire pit and cafe lights--this was Michael's and my Christmas and Anniversary gift to each other. (A note: a true gift would be hiring professionals to do the work for you). After weeks of back breaking labor, several attempts to successfully mount the cafe lights, and much research on the best patio furniture for our space, we are about 95% there and officially on a first name basis with all Lowe's employees!
Digging to lay the base.
Leveling and laying pavers on top of the base.
Rinsing excess polymeric sand after brushing over the pavers.
Blowing off the excess water after rinsing the pavers and sand.
Just waiting for the fire ring.
And there it is!
We decided to get a round outdoor table top and added handles for easy removal, both to keep the fire pit dry and preserve the ring itself, and to use as an actual table in the warmer months when we don't need a fire.
We have had exactly one gathering out here, when the temps were still in the 60s. Christmas Day was far too cold and windy for us Charlestonians, so we looked out at the fire pit from inside the warm kitchen most of the day.
We hope to spend more time out there in the very near future, especially once the new patio furniture arrives. We are both most excited about this whopper:
We are big fans of this recycled plastic material that will last you a literal lifetime. It could not be easier to maintain (read: zero maintenance) and a glider is the next best thing to a porch swing. I also opted for a daintier, more classic bistro set for inside the porch:
It was great to get our hands dirty and make something really good together in 2020. I can honestly say neither of us would ever choose to do this again, but the experience was priceless. Looking forward to sending this year off with new memories and attitudes, and welcoming 2021 in comfortable style.
I hope you had a wonderful Christmas and utilized Zoom, FaceTime, and snail mail to share with your loved ones near and far. The very best wishes for a happier, healthier New Year!
Best,
Emily
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