5 Lessons Learned

Lesson 1: Vivian is an enormous house to clean!

It is not simply due to the 18 rooms but considering the ceiling height collecting spiderwebs, the floors attracting dirt and the insane number of cabinets and closets that need to be scrubbed and repainted simply to begin moving clothes and linens in.

Lesson 2: One project will easily become three projects.

We purchased the house with a washer and dryer in the basement, which is great to have in-home and without the need to move heavy equipment! Except, we learned after finding a sopping wet load of laundry; the washer does not spin. And the dryer is improperly vented. So now the project becomes a partial repair investigation, and part research for alternatives to accomplish a relatively simple task of laundry. 

As for the office space, our goal was to remove the drop ceiling and patch one corner before we move in computer desks. Except, the plaster ceiling should get fully replaced with drywall. The timeline extended from one afternoon clean up to a three week project with a rental device to lift drywall up to the 8′ ceiling height. 

Lesson 3: Moisture management

What do grading, airflow and temperature have in common? 

The combination contributes to the moisture level in the basement which needs improvement. 

Lesson 4: For every project I want to pursue, there are two that I MUST complete first.

I dream of installing window treatments in the parlor, especially since there are three thrifted valences and three sets of perfect length drapes hanging in the closet ready for steaming and hanging! However, it is far more important to vacuum the windows, ensure the weights allow movement, install screens for ventilation and replace any cracked glass first.

Lesson 5: This is a home we are stewarding for the next generation.

We met community members sharing stories of generations who previously lived in this home. One woman used to visit relatives who recollect the work from roof to basement upgrading electrical, replacing roofing, etc. all prior to modern electrical tools. A neighbor shared how the former owner used to sit on the porch with her neighbor and share wine in the summer evenings. Neighbors in the historic district used to take turns hosting dinner parties for the families on the street.

While we are responsible for the care and repair of Vivian throughout this wonderful chapter, she is not really ours as much as we are hers for this section of history. We are her caretakers protecting against moisture, insects, plants, nature and people while we spend our time (& money) here. 

There is much to learn but the only thing that determines your limits is what you are willing to learn (as Our Restoration Nation always says). Plus bringing back local dinner parties to the neighborhood would be idyllic.