that an a tree had been cut down and the trunk ground. Apparently the mold is especially attracted to decomposing mulch. It is harmless to plants, animals and humans; its even a food source in native american culture. Looks awful though :>

I thought your home adorable at first sight :> That brick is a really beautiful one - creating a very cozy, welcoming look. Love the red metal roof too! It add's that nice surpirse of architectural detail. I also think your front lawn (it's huge!) and pathway are beautiful and that ramp is *so* well done! Now, I am a lover of the cottage look and would encourage you to embrace it as you are well on your way. I would agree with some other's on here and suggest big, wide, bright, fresh white shutters (the hutter should look "real" enough to beable to cover one half of the window) - that will continue the frame of the window to help them have more substance (look to the windows with the trellis to see how beautiful and fresh and substantial it looks with the white) The white will also pick up on the white bits of brick and will help your home shine. Then add substantial window boxes (make sure they are the full width of the window). That will also help draw your eye up when other blooms in the garden have faded, and may be easier for you to tend - I have disabilities too and understand :>

Good luck Melissa and have fun!! :D

carriage house! So many good thoughts for you above and I like how your ideas are shaping up. My two cents worth: Do restore the structure - it will help to preserve it. That means do whatever needs to be done to the exterior too. I would most definately keep it simple and white wash the inside to open and brighten it up. The carriage house will be a destination for you from the main house, with the gardens between, and so it would be a lovely multipurpose hub: good for a getaway or garden party (does it leak?) a potting area with a sink - what a bonus!, a small kitchen w/sink, mini-fridge, microwave would be great for a snack or cool drink, a bathroom? A bathroom would be *very* handy out away from the house. I don't know how high the attic area is but a simple sleeping area would be nice but only if the carriage house were properely restored - don't want to be sharing guest quarters with critters :D Whatever you do, please keep us in the loop and updated!!! We're all dreaming now ..... ;>