I've heard of people using straw bales for raised beds, so I'm sure it would work. I don't think they'd dry out any worse than regular raised beds, which tend to dry out easier than field planting. That said, raised beds are the way to go for suburban gardening IMHO. I think your idea is a wonderful idea. Good luck with it Here is a link that might be useful: Sinfonian's raised bed garden

Thanks for the input! I guess I'm just having some last minute jitters. Window coverings are so expensive and final, I worry that I'm making a big mistake. The price difference is about $200, but I've been working on what to do with these windows for years, so that amount is not enough to really influence my decision.

Did they buy a lottery ticket?? Edited to add: Just want to add that a rainbow is a good luck sign, and that buying a lottery ticket might mean a big win for them.

I think you mean horizontal blind? Any rate, I'd do one blind. I think it will look nicer.