Thanks, Goldfinch. Very helpful suggestions, I appreciate it! I mentioned to DH that I think this needs some type of metal or plastic liner. He's usually, as you can see, good at "that stuff." The best thing I can think of is to line it with a sheet of vinyl stapled to the sides near the top. Maybe that's a better idea than I think it is.
We're going to paint it with outside paint even though it will be inside. You're right about not moving it around - HEA VEE. I can't move the thing around empty. I'm worried about squirrels and toads and other various critters that come into the yard messing it up but it would be so much better outside. So now I'm also thinking we could fashion a raised kind of frame lid with screen covering it. That would let light and air through but keep critters out. Probably put a couple latches so the wind doesn't throw it into the neighbor's yard.
