Hard Work--With Help

photo by G.

The exterior window sashes and sills have needed painting ever since we bought the place.

In truth, it appears they have needed painting for quite awhile.

I meant to do it last September while J. was working in Wyoming--cold weather came before I caught up with the task.

I have mentioned it several times recently and the suggestion hasn't met with enthusiasm.

Trotting out the idea again today, J. said if I wanted to have at it, go buy the paint.

There were not many choices at Wal Mart--I would have preferred gloss paint, only semi-gloss was in stock. I bought it rather than go all the way to town to the hardware store.

While I was fetching the paint J. removed the window screens and used a wire wheel on the cordless drill unit to brush off scabs and flakes of old paint.

Here Nellie is interested--doubtless the paint looks like a gallon of cream.

photo by G.

Bobby McGee felt he could be of assistance.

Not surprisingly, the windows on the north side of the house are in the worst shape.

J. declared that the paint is merely a 'stop-gap' measure.

At some point the lower sash units and the surrounding frames will need replacement--but not this year.

photo by G.

The old wood slurped up several coats of the quick-drying paint.

photo by G.

I fended off kittens, kept my mind on the placement of my feet.

I'm clumsy enough that I could unwittingly step off the end of the ladder while stretching for an out of

reach spot.

My photo

The kitchen window is above the cement stairs leading into the basement.

J. positioned a sturdy step ladder on each side of the wall and laid planking between.

We both knew that I would still be likely to lose my balance and fall.

[I wasn't clever at this sort of thing even in my prime.]

J. managed to wash the window, paint the frame and carry on a phone conversation while the

kittens and I observed.

Tomorrow will see touch-up done, the rest of the windows washed and the screens

clipped back in place.

One more refurbishing task checked off the list.

With help!