Flashback Friday

I had a house rule in G-Burg that we would not turn the heat on until Thanksgiving.  Prior to that date the screens would come down and the glass windows would go on.  It wasn't always an easy project. 

Step One:  Screened windows unlatched and lifted off sill hardware.  Twisted just so as to allow them to be brought into the room.  Take them all up to the attic.

Step Two:  Bring glass windows down from attic.  They are not light so can be a hassle bringing them down the narrow steep attic steps.  

Step Three:  All the windows must be washed.  

Step Four:  Sit on sill and maneuver the heavy and large glass window through the opening and across your lap.  It is now fully outside so don't lose your grip.  (I actually did once and almost hit Brendan with a an old Victorian window.)

Step Five:  Lift the window from horizontal to vertical and attempt to place window latch's into the outside sill hook.  This often means a person must push down on your legs so you don't fall out the second story window opening, thus breaking the window and numerous other things on your body.

Step Six:  If you have followed the state-of-the-art window numbering system, then you simply, and slowly, close the window and latch the hook.  You are now ready for winter.  You will repeat the process in reverse in the Spring.  A long ways off and at least 6 heating bills away.

Not all the windows in the 2700 square foot old Victorian was the old fashioned storm window type.  I bought a dozen windows from Sears when I moved in that were modern, easy and energy efficient.  The others, however, either kept their winter glass on year around or we went through the above procedure every Fall with the rest. 

Thus the picture above.  Someone, I suspect Kenzie, decided to take a picture of Dad cinching up his warm and woolly robe on a chilly cold day.  I recall always getting a slight lump in my throat every time I'd hear the furnace start whirring in the basement.   When we moved in we had one of those giant octopus type furnaces and while it wasn't efficient, it was effective.  And a bit expensive. 

We would eventually buy a new furnace with a cool air filter attached and a service agreement for a yearly check up.  We do what we have to do.  Others depend on it.  We provide.  

And, of course, if you got too chilled you could inch a little closer to the fire burning in the fireplace.  Or climb in bed with your electric blanket, take the dog with you.  But touch that thermostat and you will be terminated.