This is the new perspective I’ve gained from the private nap location under the new pergola we put in. I should have committed to this years ago! I never thought of a pergola as sort of a permanent umbrella, especially one with louvers that you can let the light in when you want it. On these hot summer days it’s so soothing to let it create all this shade.

The plants don’t seem to be any worse for wear. The arbor tunnel we created is also adding to the privacy of this location, and it’s very calming with the fountain. This is my most raggedy outdoor couch, which I updated with newer cushions, but it is wide and perfect for stretching out in the shade of this pergola, with plenty of room for dogs to jump onto me. My tomato plants are doing well, and some lemons are coming in. Hopefully the limes won’t be too far behind.