Cottage work slowed almost to a halt over the winter (see The Many Lives of Shell Cottage). Cottage writing slowed even further! Here are a few things that have happened since I last wrote:
Most of the downstairs walls have been canvassed. I’m very, very pleased with how this is turning out. The cottage feels lighter and cleaner, despite the piles of boxes on the floor.
Canvas drop clothes make great wall covering (Photo: Sarah A. Zeiger).
All three new windows are in! Two upstairs, one downstairs, all of them proper egress windows. I feel safer, and I can create a cross-breeze.
Lower story cottage window (Photo: Michelle L. Zeiger).
I removed a counter from the northeast corner. I’m still trying to decide if I want to replace it, or keep that space open. Right now I’m enjoying the space, and contemplating giving the floor a good scrub.
One obstacle to canvassing the walls was a box of dead batteries from our original battery bank (see How Sizing Our Battery Bank Led to Uncomfortable Truths About Our Lifestyle). They’re over sixty pounds a piece, and distinctly lacking in useful handles. Did I panic? No, I did not! Using a pack waist strap and some caribiners, I rigged a lifting strap and was able to safely move all four out to the deck. Now they’re covered and wrapped in plastic, ready to be taken to the hazardous waste disposal later this month.
Hauling dead batteries (Photo: Michelle L. Zeiger).
My next step may be making storage solutions for all the stuff on my floor! Keep an eye on the blog – this should be fun, or at least funny. In the meantime, enjoy your summer! I hope you hear from me soon.
Looking good Aly!