This week we took delivery of a propane tank – a shiny white cylindrical vessel the size of a submarine and the shape of an ibuprofen capsule. It was a reminder that despite our best intentions to build a fossil fuel free home, we are still reliant on gas if/when the electrical grid goes down. Until then, we’re generating our own electricity from the 36 solar panels on the roof and heating the house with geothermal energy extracted from the earth.

The sun’s light was reflected beautifully by the full “beaver moon” on Friday, illuminating house and grounds with a mystical light. Our cat, Caper, prefers his sunlight straight on and has found the most comfortable spot for basking in it.

Over the past two and a half months, Caper has learned to accept the near constant traffic of workers and sometimes very loud construction noises they make. Most recently, he napped through the installation of glass shower doors and work on the basement ceiling. However, he woke up to inspect in the collection of books I was shelving.

We are happy to report that, except for a very few punch list items, the Red House renovation project is complete. It’s empowering to witness what can be accomplished over time, with effort and skill in the service of a vision.

Still to come: blinds and drapes inspired by Federal era designs and a hand painted canvas floorcloth, also inspired by historic patterns, to be made by Jennifer Frantz of Americana Floorcloths.

Mustard Evergreen Floorcloth

Diamond shapes reflecting stone marble and checkerboard patterns were fairly common in taverns in England and in Early America.