The morning sun warms my legs as I write. A pair of white butterflies flit above the petunias, daisies and geraniums that overflow the planters. A slight breeze ruffles the pages of my book.

I’m in my happy place, otherwise known as the Great Gazebo.

Longtime readers might remember that while my husband and sons are ardent outdoorsmen, I’m mostly an indoor kind of gal. That changed this spring when we started planning for Zack’s graduation party.

Our ’70s era home had a rickety balcony attached to the back of the house. You couldn’t really call it a deck. We’ve long talked about building a proper deck, and Zack’s graduation gave Derek the deadline he needed.

While Derek hauled in wood and bags of concrete, I finished a significant magazine project. When the check arrived, I knew exactly what to buy – the Great Gazebo.

We’d seen this beauty at Costco and marveled at its size, attachable tile counters, planter racks and most of all, its sturdiness.

You see, we’ve had quite a succession of gazebos and awnings fly through our backyard over the years.

Yes. Fly. Read more. Cindy Hval, SR

Tell us about your 'happy place'.

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