I live in Redlands, which is in the Inland Empire of Southern CA, so we spend a lot of time outdoors. Although I'd love to make some bright pillows etc... from some of these great fabrics, I have one problem...DIRT! We've had our rain, and won't get anymore til next Fall. So it gets rather dusty out here! Thanks goodness our main dining table outside is glass topped - I have to wash it every time we want to eat out there, which is quite often, but that is easy. I have no idea how I would deal with keeping the dirt off pretty cushions! I also have a cheap wood slatted coffee table out there made from a world market teak substitute, the poor thing has taken quite a beating just living out there, it's so hard to keep clean I don't even try, the poor thing is so ignored and unloved!

I know that there are lots of people who live in Southern CA, what do they do? Cover all the furniture when they're not actually using it, making their beautiful patio an eyesore? Go outside and dust everyday?

Those beautiful photos in the catalogs and shelter magazines seem to be a bit unrealistic, but maybe I'm missing something! What's their secret?

I was just in Pottery Barn this weekend- love their spring/summer collection! Even my little one said it was awesome. Now thats high praise! It's so nice to see soft goods going outdoors- I have been encouraging this for years with my clients. Its a great way to expand your living space. There is more to outdoor living than just grilling! Not that I don't enjoy a good BBQ...

Tracey

Great post, Holly! Man, these Real Simple folks knew what they were doing when they picked you (Erin is fab, too!).

I am busy planning an outdoor area right now - my open pool cabana. Black trellis, fabulous blue/white/black modern moroccan tile flooring, banquette seating with sunbrella fabrics and bolsters and lots of sweet tables for sipping mint cocktails. And the pool of course - the outdoor accessory I am looking most forward to:)

I've been trying to find nice outdoor fabrics for HOURs now. Thank goodness I found your blog. Now I'm running out to buy your magazine again ... and probably get a subscription. Thanks!