Always striving to look at the silver linings, one of the benefits of starting over, from nothing, is the opportunity to create something completely your own. The only person you need to please is yourself and those you wish you surround yourself with.  While there are certainly pieces of furniture that I miss, as they were carefully selected for the space that became their home, I accept that they are only "things".  And of course, "things" cannot replace what is truly important in life.  They are simply the vehicles by which we enjoy what is truly precious….the relationships with those we love in our lives.

Therefore,  in my quest to furnish my home, I strive to find functional furniture that will serve to provide a comfortable and inviting venue for friends and family to enjoy.  And of course, this includes the patio dining furniture I was looking for as I had 2 requirements.  It had to look "good" and be flexible in terms of seating as nothing makes me happier than when my kids come home with a group of friends wanting to "hang out" and often that includes meals!   

As I have indicated, I am a big fan of benches and by using them for outdoor seating the possibilities are endless.  I purchased 4 of these and from my calculations, I believe I could potentially seat 12 around the table.

The table….I am thrilled with this square shaped table as I can fit the 4 benches around it perfectly.  Yes, I am very concerned with symmetry!  Most importantly, this arrangement will fit in the patio space beautifully.  All I have to do is pray for some lovely weather and a tall, handy, handsome lad to assist me in putting together this furniture! 

Look forward to happy patio parties!!