I have a new table!

One of the things I was hoping to do once my porch is screened is a little entertaining alfresco. I had considered bringing my little kitchen table out there, which when opened up, seats four. It wasn't until I was shopping at IKEA last Sunday with my cousin Pat that I decided to buy the table I have admired there since it opened in Minneapolis some number of years ago. I hadn't been on their second floor for at least a year, so it was surprising to learn they still offered this wonderful creation.

Table fully closed

One side opened; one drawer slightly open. The leg isn't actually slanted. It appears so due to the camera angle.

This table has two drop-down sides, plus six drawers — three on each side. Six people will be able to sit around it when it is fully opened. Fully closed, it takes up very little space. It comes in natural wood or white. I chose the white, and it is so nice! Thanks to Pat who did most of the grunt work to get the knocked down table into the back of my Beetle and out again, and into my home. This afternoon one of my co-workers (I work with the BEST people) came over and assembled it for me. He told me he loves to put together IKEA furniture—that it is well made, and comes with good instructions. It took him a little less than a hour from box to porch! Isn't it great?

One more benefit: in December I can bring it into my kitchen, swapping it with my kitchen table, and have a great spot for rolling out and decorating Christmas cookies, etc.

The porch is completely painted and now I'm waiting for the workmen to install the screening.