maeve, if you feel like sharing what it is you want to build, we can at least help to visualise it/dream it up for you? (I know first thing, visualise the "hellhole" cleaned out and filled up, right?) It must seem so discouraging and frightening to face winter not knowing how to cope with such great odds. Sharing those concerns and fears with friends might help a little bit. That old adage, sorrow shared is halved, joy shared is doubled or some such. These threads have become a good place to do so, so please feel free.

luvyakat

P.S. Any options open for maybe going south for the winter to a warmer clime for a few months? My son has just subscribed to the Caretaker's Gazette and will be sending me a copy if you'd like me to check it over for possibilities.