Hi Lisa,
Loving your first week experiences, don't know how I'd go with the cold being from a warm temperate/sub tropical area.
The window covers look a great idea so I'm going to try using mine for blocking out light as I like complete dark for sleeping; I love things that have more than one application.
You've covered quite a few interesting and varied jobs for your first week and learning from Boot Stephen and having Paul on hand must be fantastic, lucky woman. Looking forward to following more of your adventures.