I am so happy that the sun finally came out, but it was also serving as a blaring reminder that I needed to create some shade in the backyard. We have a pergola over our deck and, while I did plant a grapevine that will eventually create a bountiful umbrella, we needed something that would provide shade until that sweet day finally arrives. I investigated lots of options and settled on the cheapest and easiest solution I could come up with. I purchased natural colored burlap for next to nothing (outdoor fabric was way out of my price range but would have been great) and with the help of my monkey of a husband, who climbed on top, we draped and stapled it to the wood slats.
For nighttime flair we added some outdoor lights, left over from our wedding, perfect for an alfresco meal or moonlit swing. It's the perfect excuse to live outside all summer ... we've got it made in the shade!
