In and around our Casita

Things are hopping in our casitas. I can’t write about everything, but some highlights are the acquisition of a new refrigerator and stove, both badly needed. The first stove arrived damaged and had to be returned.

After a ten-day wait, which unfortunately included Thanksgiving when we could have used two stoves, another stove arrived.

A nearby antique mall is closing and everything is on sale. We bought two craftsman-style end tables for the living area and a mid-century modern table and chairs.

Outside, Grant and Dennis finished putting up new siding on the second casita, known amongst family as the Bee House, because the chimney was occupied by a hive of honeybees. (A beekeeper came to take them away.)

Now the siding is painted and ready to be trimmed out.

We’ve made great progress, but have a long way to go. For one thing, the whole yard needs to be graded to keep rainwater from flowing toward the three houses. For another, this beautiful agave has to be removed. Not only is it in an inconvenient spot,  it also has vicious thorns on the ends and sides of the leaves. Our new friend Jessie, a native plant expert, says that many people are highly allergic to its thorn punctures. Moreover, Jessie says that at 3 ½ feet it is only half-grown.

Our work is barely begun, but we are enjoying every phase of transformation that will make this place our own.

Copyright 2015 by Shirley Domer