Installing Outdoor Lighting for the Wren’s Nest

We’re having some electrical work done today at the Wren’s Nest.

(I love that tagline. What will their prices do–befuddle you? charm you? make you go “eh”?)

Frankly, it’s a little terrifying.

After a few situations with folks sleeping on our porch and tearing off our historically inaccurate window screens, we decided to get lights installed. Turns out it’s not so much of a change as it is an upgrade.

A long time ago, we had working lights that both lit up the house at night and worked as motion sensors.

We’re basically replacing the broken lights in the spots where they already were, plus getting rid of the wires by going underground.

Problem is, our electricians are using this very, very serious looking machine.

Yikes!

And they have to go under this very, very important walkway:

I mentioned repeatedly that I’d have a heart attack if anything happened to those stones, so they’re carefully digging a few up and placing them aside. So far I think they know what they’re doing.

It’s important to mention that this decision comes after a bit of homework. Still, there are some competing factors that affect who we hire to do the work:

1. We’d like someone who has significant experience with National Historic Register sites
2. We’d like someone who is from the neighborhood.
3. We’d like someone who is cheap.

For structural changes to the actual house, of course #1 is really our only option. But for something like this #1 isn’t totally convenient. Plus, it’s a good opportunity to support small businesses in West End.

No complaints so far, but when there’s only verbal recommendations for reference, it’s kind of nerve-wracking.

That said, I’m sure they’ll do a great job. After all, I’ll be watching (uncomfortably) closely.