# Making Over an Old House explained — Green Forest Stories

> Chapter companion for Green Forest Stories by Thornton W. Burgess.

## What happens

Whitefoot and Mrs. Whitefoot transform an old thrush nest into a cozy summer home, with Mrs. Whitefoot taking the lead in planning and construction while Whitefoot gathers materials.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Courtship

Whitefoot's willingness to defer to Mrs. Whitefoot's wishes and his eagerness to provide the best materials reflect a loving partnership.

### Wisdom and Experience

Mrs. Whitefoot's practical knowledge of home-building and her ability to see potential in the old nest demonstrate wisdom and resourcefulness.

## Character check-ins

### Whitefoot the Wood Mouse

Whitefoot is skeptical about using the old thrush nest but follows Mrs. Whitefoot's instructions to gather materials.

### Mrs. Whitefoot

Mrs. Whitefoot is excited and determined to convert the old nest into a home, directing the work and building the roof, entrance, and bed.

## Key lines

> A home is always what you make it. With love there you will ne’er forsake it.

The quality of a home depends on the care and affection put into it.

_Opening verse sets the theme of the chapter._

> You dear old stupid, whatever is the matter with you? Don’t you see that all we need do is to put a roof on, make an entrance on the under side, and make a soft comfortable bed inside to make it a delightful home?

Mrs. Whitefoot affectionately chides Whitefoot for not seeing how easily the nest can be renovated.

_Mrs. Whitefoot explains her plan for the transformation._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/green_forest_stories_se/chapters/xxix-making-over-an-old-house
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/green_forest_stories_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/green_forest_stories_se/chapters