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Smatterings of morning light graze the floor and wall by the eastern window and over to the bookcase. Sid has a perch atop stacked crates, where he enjoys a morning repose. My office is set up. This room was selected because it consistently gets the best direct sunlight. In the cold months it is a natural source of heat. When working at home, I’m like a cat, following the patches of light around. On all but the hottest/muggiest days no shades are needed (when it is too bright mid-day, though, the solution is to wear a baseball hat!) We purchased some batik fabric to make curtains for Bedroom 2 and currently it is clipped up here to provide privacy at night. There are no neighbors with a view, but we are on ground level so it’s nice to have window coverings. The cool part is that the upper windows are not shaded and allow a view of the treetops and sky. We are researching shade options which will also provide insulation during cold months. Honeycomb shades were the first choice but they are made out of synthetics, involve chemical treatments, and who knows the where/how of the manufacturing process. Not a lot of info out there about green options, but we found a place that hand crafts shades in the USA, in a variety of styles, using natural fibers and no chemicals. We need to get price estimates. Other possible enhancements: more shelving/baskets/cubbies for closet and sliding panels to close it off when not in use; carpet for under/around the bed; real bed (including non-synthetic/non-spring mattress.)

The inspector found termite damage along the bottom edge of the two walls by the entry, therefore the walls came down. Sheetrock was hung on new wood, edges/seams spackled and caulked, everything sanded (Julian managed this.) Rough spots throughout were primed and the ceiling, wall, closet, bookcase, and trim were painted.

Pros:
Great big southern facing windows, view of land, built-in bookcase.

Cons:
Ugly door to loud oil boiler on other side of door. Orange oil lines running from oil tank, through wall, around room to boiler.