Drain for Rain

During the summer I succeeded in keeping water out of the basement with this proof-of-concept setup.

That PVC pipe, and an identical section, came with the house, presumably intended for a project that was never done. The pipes are now buried in a single long run that’s carrying downspout water away from the foundation of the house and emptying downhill.

Exterior Decorating

This is how the patio turned out. Not too big or fancy, but not too small or plain.

We bought those resin chairs for our first house, so they must be at least thirty years old. A resin table we had was damaged in the move, making the metal table less than 25 years old. The umbrella was purchased the day the picture was taken.

To hide the view from under the deck and porch I ordered some curtains that are intended for outdoor installation.

Looking for a way to keep the curtains from sliding back and forth in the wind, I came across these table cloth clamps.

Hidden behind the folds of the curtains, they’re perfect for positioning the panels and holding them in place.

Patio Progress

Day #3. A new walkway will lead down to a patio.

The materials are the same as were used for the front walkway that was built last year.

See that area next to the steps? That’s where I’ll set up the portable screen for the hoped-for movie nights.

The portable projector’s contrast ratio isn’t the best, so dark scenes can appear a bit washed out, but cartoons look okay even in bright daylight.