The previous homeowner gave us a huge gift by leaving us this large outdoor dining table and chairs. I don’t know how many years it would take us to make this investment on our own, but God knew what he was doing because this is a very well-used spot! 

As we continue life’s celebrations in this house — birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, gatherings — I’m having fun dressing it up with clippings from around the yard, candles and assorted tablecloths. 

I found this umbrella with fringe and knew it would be perfect here! It protects from the hot Florida sun, but also adds personality to the space.

We sit out here for pizza dinners, an evening glass of wine, Bible studies, family gatherings, parties. I knew God had called us to a home that could host people, to be a help to people, but I couldn’t imagine that he would even provide a beautiful table, 20 plastic stackable chairs and fire pit. There is even a pizza oven, lights strung and a basketball hoop on a concrete pad out front.

These things cost money, yes, (and it could have taken us awhile to save for that) but I would have never thought of putting a concrete pad out in my front yard or where to string lights or put a little fire pit!

Who knew that a $30 fire pit and 4 plastic Adirondack chairs would bring this family and friends so much joy and fun and bonding!

I’m not telling you any of this to brag, I’m telling you this because I’m in awe of God and to share how he provides for what he calls us to. It’s not always easy being a hosting house or living as a large family, but when I see his sovereign hand on everything, I want to do anything for him.

So about the table. I didn’t buy anything new for the setting. I’ve had this tablecloth and pink glasses for years from TJ Maxx. I cut bougainvillea from the yard, used a few strands of my new favorite faux garland and added in dollar store candles and holders I had from New Year’s Eve. 

The colored vases were from the Target dollar spot and I use this Ikea tray for everything under the sun. I have three of them! The string lanterns I stole from the boys’ room.

My father-in-law re-seals the table and chairs once a year to combat the sun and rain, but I kind of like how rustic they look here.

My pretty sundress is from If She Loves. It has a criss cross back and is perfect for summer.

Do you have an outdoor space? What’s your favorite thing in it?