I went "dumpster diving" for this one -- but at the home of a friend.  I had gone to return the circular saw I borrowed to build a bed for my son.  There is was on the garage shelf!  It looked vaguely familiar -- and then I realized it was originally a Christmas room box scene that one of our local miniaturists had done for the "Enchanted Village" show two years ago.  It was stripped of its former self and falling apart, just waiting to be turned into something great.  My friend had too many projects going on to work on it.  So, she gave it to me to turn into something great.  I'll put a roof with a glass insert on it as well as a removable back.  Now just need to figure out what it will be.

This is how it looked when I got it -- yikes!  It is made of good quality plywood, so it will hold up to some serious renovations.  Those grey stripes that run down the walls are actually duct tape.  I just can't imagine why it's on the walls.  I think the wallpaper was glued on so it will a vinegar and water solution will be used to remove it.

The outside appears to be in fairly good condition, but once I remove the broken siding, I'll assess what's underneath.

Well it seems that with each part I tried to remove, another one came loose.  I wound up removing the siding, the front decking and taking the walls completely apart.  I ran each piece thru my table saw to square them up and bevel the side edges for re-assembly.  After the sawing, each section was about an inch smaller all around and that meant re-cutting the base.  I gave each piece a good sanding and then put it all back together with wood glue and my air compressor.  I squared up the window openings and dry-fitted the windows & door.
 


Last night was a long one ... I was glued (no pun intended) to the TV watching and waiting for Hurricane Rita's devastation to hit.  I finished the clapboard siding and even painted a prime coat.  The windows and door frame have been fitted with glass and glued in.  Glass is so much nicer and easier to clean.  I fitted the deck with some white cedar wood.  It will get a light stain and clear sealer.