The back deck tour

One of the things that sold me on my place the most was the large back deck. Space is at a premium in Chicago so I loved having such a large deck and even a backyard (unheard of!) I'm not quite a high-rise living kind of girl, so having a deck and easy access to outside makes me feel like I'm living in less of a concrete jungle.

I haven't gone wild with buying outdoor furniture, even though I really wanted to! But I've got a few chairs, an ottoman and lots of plants. Throw in a cold beer or glass of wine and that sounds pretty good to me!

Now that plants have been in full bloom for quite some time and summer is in full force (I will not say nearing the end, because that is just too much to deal with), I thought I'd show some pictures of my deck!

I purchased the chairs and table from Target last summer. My sister sewed me the pillows and I found the chair cushions at Marshall's! And above is my Christmas Cactus from inside. I always like to bring a few of my houseplants out for the summer to "vacation." The Christmas cactus loves it out here, within a week or two of being out it starts growing new leaves! And you remember Andy, right? Protector of the house and deck. He's got a nice little perch going on the table.

The begonia corner! I have a very shady deck and I've learned the hard way nice, flowering plants that like sun just aren't going to do well here. Enter begonias. My Mom got a Dragon wing begonia for me this year and it is my absolute favorite. It has done so well and brings a little tropical feel to the deck, and all without much sun.

I came up with what I thought was a creative plant stand. It's always nice to add some height to plant arrangements so everything isn't sitting on the ground. Enter the mini-Oberon keg. They come in collectible designs every summer (it's a summer only brew) and I wasn't sure of a use for it -- until I discovered a small 5in or so pot fits perfect on top!

One more begonia. Another favorite, Tuberous Begonia's. Mine hasn't done as well as I hoped this year, but generally they have very full blooms that look rose like. They thrive in the shade, but are very fragile and crack or break easily.

An indoor Christmas decoration from Target has a perfect little spot on the deck!

OK, time to kick back! Thanks for stopping by.

I'm linking up to a few parties today! Outdoor Wednesdays @ A Southern Dreamer, Spotlight Yourself @ It's So Very Cheri, Bloomin' Tuesday at Jean's blog and Creative Share Wednesdays @ The Trendy Treehouse. Check out all the other great posts on these blogs!