Need Help From Orchid Wives

[Cassia]

I hate it when my husband gives gifts that he ends up using himself. It's so self serving.

I am in complete agreement, too.

Perhaps you can say something like, now see how happy this makes you, orchids make me that kind of happy.

I'm not so comfortable with this suggestion. To me, it sounds like the giver is only giving me the gift to make a point about his wants/needs/desires, rather than to make me happy. If you really want to make her happy, figure out something she will really, really enjoy for a long time (and NOT a new vacuum cleaner or other household appliance, PLEASE!!)--something she will treasure just as you treasure your orchids, but don't make any comparisons when you give it to her. Later, some time a few weeks in the future, if she says something about how much she's enjoying her gift, you can say something like, "I'm so glad! I know how much I enjoy my orchids, and I wanted you to have something you would enjoy that much!" and don't add another word. Even if she doesn't say much, it will stick in her head.

Good luck!

[peeweelovesbooks]

Originally Posted by Gwenchanter

First I designed the 5 part bench set using a 3D modeling program and did a 3D to-scale mock up of my front porch with the finished bench set in place.

I wanted it to fit exactly onto my porch, making the best use of space and also easily movable in case of a hurricane so they can be brought inside.

We built the frames out of pressure treated 2x4s. We used anti-rust deck screws coated with wood glue to make it last. Then I painted the frames with two coats of high gloss white paint.

Next I stained the 1x2 slats, sanded them down and sealed them with several coats of spar urethane (which makes them water proof and very shiny! It's often used to paint wooden boats). This by far took the most time.

The slats were then attached with more deck screws.
Then we put them in place and there ya go!

OMG...those are gorgeous. I have no one to help me do something like this...and I know of no one who makes these....I've searched for people but they always flake at the last minute.

Lemme know if you or your fiancee want a second job!! LOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOL

They look great!!!