What took us so long?

We have a beautiful view to the West.

Our Lucy appreciates the view

We built the balustrades right from the start, they were part of the terrace.

All that was needed were a few columns and a roof.

And so we began.

We knew that Charlie, our dog from the shelter, and Stanley our very old gentleman cat, would appreciate the shade.

We would also appreciate the shade and so would our friends.
  (I took this picture this morning and just now noticed my owl, this time on top of the open window. She is a clever one.)!

After the columns,  the roof and shade material was added.   When we built our house, 17 years ago, I planted an Interlaken grape in one of the corners (I must have known).

 There is also a secret little reading niche by the fountain.

And another little spot for a cafe au lait for two.

It's perfect for everyone.

Our house is cooler, our fabrics are safe, our friends are happy and so are we. 

Have a happy Sunday my dear blogging Friends

Gina

And the winner is . . . .

Lynne Rutter http://www.ornamentalist.net/ Ornamental Painter "who is on a mission to beautify the world".





Lynne suggested "a series of awnings that can be retracted" to provide shade for our new pergola.


Lynne will receive a signed copy of the book entitled "100 Places In Italy Every Woman Should Go" a book by Susan Van Allen.


Thank you Lynne,


Gina

HELP, please and a prize

My dear blogging friends. I need a little advice. My new pergola is almost finished. However, it does not provide enough shade. Do any of you have a solution?


We have a lot of snow in the winter. Solutions which work for fair weather areas will not work here.




I am offering a prize to the person with the best idea. The prize is a signed copy of Susan Van Allen's new book entitled "100 Places In Italy Every Woman Should Go". Gosh, I'm even mentioned in Susan's book.


So, please put your thinking caps on. Your efforts will be rewarded and I would be so grateful.


Gina