The awning over the front window will provide shade during summer afternoons. We have placed it 'around' the top of the window (rather than simply 'on top' of the window) to have more window coverage and allow us to leave the upper windows open during rain storms. We still have a few modifications to perform but this is close. We have also planted a small Japanese Pine in the NW corner and a butterfly bush near the steps. Lately we have seen some butterfly bushes in the area that are huge so this will probably have to move.
I also placed the metal cap on the West vent box. All I need to do on this one is install the vent pipe. When we side the rear of the house I will cap off the East vent box.
We finished installing the cement siding and began painting it. We also began plastering over the cement board on the the eaves and soffits. We used a Portland cement mixture with white pigment and fiberglass strands for this. I will never make a living as a plaster worker but I am doing ok so far. Pam is doing most of the painting and it is coming along great. We are using 2 shades of green on the exterior; one (lighter) for the siding and one (darker) for the window trim. The plaster will remain white for now.
