There is a nice private little area on the east of the cabin. The dining room window overlooks this side of the house and this is where I hang my bird feeders and winter suet. The previous owners left behind a very large picnic table. It was sturdy but neglected and splashed here and there with green paint. After looking out at it all winter and spring, I figured it was time to give it a fresh new look.

Here are a few ‘before’ shots:

I began by scraping and sanding the wood. Then I stained it with a solid dark brown stain (to cover the green paint). It looks quite boring at this stage.

Then I jazzed it up today with some freehand painting inspired by Australian Aboriginal art (I have been to Australia twice and spent quite a bit of time in small galleries there). It was a very relaxing way to spend a few hours.

Then I added a kick of yellow…

Now I just need to protect it with a few coats of varathane. I love how it turned out and it definitely makes the area look more inviting. Not only does it add a touch of whimsy and playfulness, but it now feels cleaner when eating at the table and the red umbrella provides some lovely shade on those (rare) hot summer days. The circular pattern will remind me of my connection to all of existence and the colorful bright dots will cheer me up when I look out on those cold winter days, reminding me of the promise of spring and the joy of eating al fresco…