Earlier this summer we went on a mission to revamp our backyard, just like pretty much everyone else who's been forced to "staycation" at home during the summer of COVID19. We had our pool re-plastered and when we couldn't find a company that would even return a phone call never mind actually come out to the house and provide us a quote, my husband took it upon himself to replace some hail damaged wood on the top of our pergola and re-stain the entire structure.

Next up on the wish list was to install a clear plastic cover on the pergola to keep it dry underneath. We'd seen it at some of neighbors and really loved the idea. After even more unreturned phone calls, we did get one company to come out and give us a quote. Actually, that was the plan, but they looked at the pergola and said "We didn't build the pergola, we can't warranty the work against leaks". I was so mad at that point, I said "Thanks for your time, we're done here" and walked him back to his car. After he left I said to my husband, we're doing this and I'll help you.

We did our research, watched videos and spent a week installing a sloped clear cover on our arbor which when it poured rain a couple of weeks later, drained like a champ (see video proof below!). When all the work was done, with the money we saved by not hiring the pergola work out, we treated ourselves to new patio furniture. We've never had lounge furniture before, just a table and chairs, so I'm loving relaxing in the cooler mornings with a cup of coffee, my Kindle and my best girl Ginger. 

I contemplated a number of ideas for this week's theme in the Pet Photography 52 Week Project when I decided to take this self portrait of our new morning routine. After the third trip into the backyard with my gear my husband asked "What are you doing?" I told him I was taking a self portrait for my blog circle and he asked if I needed any help. "Nope, gonna do this one all on my own". One camera, two tripods (one for the camera and one for the flash), a long shutter release cable and few test shots later... we nailed it!

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