Windows, Smelts, Tarps and a Router

Currently, there is a tub upstairs. It used to be downstairs. Unfortunately, I missed the impressive maneuvers which got it up there. But it strikes me as somewhat amusing and out of place, so, there you have it.


The other day, Sam and I installed a couple of the awning windows in the 1/2 cupola...


Sam cut out the hole...



We tested the fit...


... applied caulk...


and nailed it in!


The handles work and everything! And the view is magnificent.


Seriously, we are very happy with our windows. They're german designed and engineered, but manufactured in China. So the quality is superb, but the price isn't too insane.

Thanks to Sarah and Ryan, who donated a sheet to our cause, we have a modicum of privacy in the bedroom these days. That sheet even does a decent job of cutting down on the eraly morning sun!


It's a lot better than this!


On Christmas eve, Sam bucked tradition and served the smelts HOT! They are delicious: like little fishy french-fries. We had a very nice time with Sam's family in Escondido. Santa was good to us both this year!


A couple days after Christmas, we got hit with some heavy rain, and then some crazy high winds (up to 30 mph!) that tore off our protective plastic sheeting. So Sam and I went off to buy some tarps, and spent the last hours of daylight on the roof, trying not to get blown off as we nailed them down!





We did a great job, and everything stayed attached, and dry.

Yesterday, Sam was thrilled to (finally!) be able to play with work with his new router. He is cutting out circles to use as a punch-out in the concrete countertop he is going to make for the garage bathroom. Thank you, Dan! It works like a charm!



Today, Sam is sheathing the rest of the garage, and I'm not sure what else. Stay tuned!
In the meantime, I realized that I haven't posted very many "big picture" pictures recently. Here is what the house looks like these days...

as you round the corner you see this. It does look pretty big!


Standing right in front of the house you have to go all the way back on Michelle's driveway to see the cupola at all: from the street at this angle it's invisible.



pretty cool, huh?