Spanish Shutters - An American Mystery

Windows and some doors in Spain 

have these wonderful metal shutters 

that slide down over the window from the top, 

both securing the window 

and providing darkness for sleeping. 

They can be adjusted to let in just a tiny bit of light 

or dropped completely for total darkness

I have watched many people give up in confusion - 

so here is a quick lesson

The shades are operated by a sturdy strap 

usually mounted on the wall to the right of the window. 

To CLOSE the shade, 

grab the strap at the very bottom 

and pull straight out away from the wall. 

Then gently let the shade drop, 

controlling the speed with the strap. 

You may have to do this two or three times 

to drop the shade completely. 

If you want, you can leave the shade open 

just enough for light to come through the slits. 

To OPEN the shade, 

simply pull straight down on the strap. 

That's it!  Easy as pie!

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