OUTSIDE DREAMING

Fall is right around the corner so I can help dreaming of having an outdoor room.  I dream of having dinner out on the porch.  I can imagine sinking into my comfy outdoor furniture that feels as dreamy as it looks.  The family and I eat outside as the breeze blows the fallen leaves.  The overcast sky darkens as Hubby and I talk and watch the kids run and play and romp around as children do, with Emme, the dog, in tow.  After the kids are bathed and in bed, Hubby and I sneak out to sit on the porch with a drink and a snack and talk for hours in the cool night breeze wrapped up in a blanket, in front of our outdoor fireplace.  If only it weren't a dream. 

This is what my dream looks like: 

photo from http://www.southernliving.com/

Sadly, my reality consists of a concrete slab too small to fit my table for six.  We have a lovely view of our neighbors back yard and their big ole storage building just behind our fence.  There is no fireplace.  My 8 year old has a fear of fire of any kind, even candles, so a fireplace or a firepit is out of the question with him around (I blame Bambi).  The kids do romp and play in the yard with the dog,   although it seems a lot of our time is spent breaking up arguments between them all.  UGH!  I guess even the reality isn't so bad.  Maybe Hubby and I do need to sneak out on the porch every once in awhile after the kids are in bed.  Hmmmm.