We are still alive and enjoying our home. Due to the pandemic, our daughter, Anna, has come home to live with us. This has changed our lifestyle, responsibilities, priorities, and our ability to get things done. We are happy to have her home and thriving.
Just the GOOD news:
With Anna home, we are testing the handicapped accessibility design. The wheelchair gets around very well (the china cabinet window glass is still intact! There is some wall marring due to poor driving abilities - that are improving). Maneuverability in the bathroom is great. Handicap number 2 is unavailable as it is still a 'work room.' In the winter months, we do use a room heater in the bathroom. Hearing when Anna has a problem at night - Kim's hearing is degrading; Bill can hear well to alleviate that need. Sound travels rather well; we have some rooms that are insulated and one can be isolated from all noises there.
Climate control of the building is working well enough. We are using the HVAC less this year than last.
Wear and tear on the house: The floors are wonderful, easily steam cleaned. They can be sanded and urethane reapplied if marred or gouged.
Weathering storms. Lots of rain has occurred. We have only one area of concern with water 'seepage.' We are remedying the situation, and investigating possible longterm remediation. Wind has blown over nearby trees and tree limbs; the house remains undamaged.
New house adaptations: in-house gardening We have been growing lettuce, tomatoes, peppers indoors. Notice our seed collection on the table as we are saving seeds also.
Outlook for the future- there is a lot yet to do in life...Projects: West Annex - we have changed it's secondary function (primary function being to give more light to the dining room). Instead of installing a therapy pool, we are looking into an indoor gardening area. West Patio - lots of on-your-hands-and-knees work. Earth Tube Maintenance - Some of our parachute cords in the earth tubes are no longer intact. These were to be used to clean the earth tube. We have cleaned the Dryer Earth Tube, and have the others on our to-do list. Green House/Solar Chimney - Garage upgrades What if the power grid fails? Food production Demolishing old house! Better ways to mow the roof(s) Back Door and New French Door to replace a patio door
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