Bud moved the metal shelves from the current garage to the new one tonight. The verdict's out on whether they'll remain gray or get a new coat of black paint.
Guess I'm off to work for a while if I have any hope of leaving in time for the game tomorrow. Bud's planning to move more garage things tonight after he plows through some bills and other assorted paperwork.
Here's hoping the Cats can play better tomorrow than they did Saturday. At least if the basketball team continues to suck we'll have a chance to redeem ourselves in football. Who ever thought that would happen?
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Friday, December 28, 2007
Day 115: Dec. 28, 2007
We have the beam, but it's just sitting around 'til Wednesday now. The pouring rain this morning put a halt to today's installation plans.
Bud put a second coat of paint on the workbench. He plans to paint his metal shelving and pegboard tomorrow or Sunday and move them to the new garage after they're dry.
Brian and Janie stopped by the office for a quick visit. It seemed like we hadn't seen them in a hundred years. They're around for their big wedding reception this weekend.
Bud put a second coat of paint on the workbench. He plans to paint his metal shelving and pegboard tomorrow or Sunday and move them to the new garage after they're dry.
Brian and Janie stopped by the office for a quick visit. It seemed like we hadn't seen them in a hundred years. They're around for their big wedding reception this weekend.
Thursday, December 27, 2007
Day 114: Dec. 27, 2007
The workbench finally is in the process of turning black. Bud and I painted the first coat tonight. (Mostly Bud. I was just the relief crew.)
I got the Lance update from Laura this afternoon. His first outing since he got home was a hot date with the pediatrician. All's well.
Metal beam tomorrow, I hope. It's supposed to rain, though. We don't know if that'll postpone the installation.
I got the Lance update from Laura this afternoon. His first outing since he got home was a hot date with the pediatrician. All's well.
Metal beam tomorrow, I hope. It's supposed to rain, though. We don't know if that'll postpone the installation.
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Day 113: Dec. 26, 2007
We're back to a postless kitchen! Yayyayyay!
No progress in the house -- because the new beam won't arrive until Friday. Too bad. That's a lot of warm weather down the drain.
Bud bought workbench paint today. In a leaky can! So instead of finishing his sanding and prep this afternoon, he had to clean up drips in the Jeep and on the garage floor, and a giant puddle on the workbench. Fun.
No construction progress equals no new photos. So I found this picture from about a week and half ago, when Bud had just moved his and his mom's cars into their new habitat.
This view is pretty much unchanged today. His car now sports a cover, the better to avoid sawdust with. Eventually, his mom's car will get detailed and moved to a place where people who might want to buy it actually can see it.
No progress in the house -- because the new beam won't arrive until Friday. Too bad. That's a lot of warm weather down the drain.
Bud bought workbench paint today. In a leaky can! So instead of finishing his sanding and prep this afternoon, he had to clean up drips in the Jeep and on the garage floor, and a giant puddle on the workbench. Fun.
No construction progress equals no new photos. So I found this picture from about a week and half ago, when Bud had just moved his and his mom's cars into their new habitat.
This view is pretty much unchanged today. His car now sports a cover, the better to avoid sawdust with. Eventually, his mom's car will get detailed and moved to a place where people who might want to buy it actually can see it.
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Day 112: Dec. 25, 2007
Merry Christmas!
We celebrated with Jamie and Allison this morning and with a whole pile of people at the farm this evening -- once again, not that you'd know by the many pictures I took. I'm hoping to do better in 2008.
We received way more cool and fun stuff than we need or deserve. It's a nice reminder that we're much more fortunate that we often realize.
Back to work for both of us tomorrow. Plus, it should be verdict day on whether we'll have posts in the kitchen.
We celebrated with Jamie and Allison this morning and with a whole pile of people at the farm this evening -- once again, not that you'd know by the many pictures I took. I'm hoping to do better in 2008.
We received way more cool and fun stuff than we need or deserve. It's a nice reminder that we're much more fortunate that we often realize.
Back to work for both of us tomorrow. Plus, it should be verdict day on whether we'll have posts in the kitchen.
Monday, December 24, 2007
Day 111: Dec. 24, 2007
After a visit from Jamie this morning, Bud and I mostly relaxed. He checked out the progress of the drying wood filler on his work bench. I tried to prepare us for a day with no open stores.
Bud picked up his truck from the mechanic, where it was towed Friday when it stopped running for no apparent reason. I guess whatever got fixed wasn't all that was wrong -- because the truck's currently not running in front of our new garage.
We started what could become a new tradition: Christmas Eve Movie Night. We saw "Charlie Wilson's War," which we both enjoyed. There was not an employee to be found when we left the theater, almost like they left us to fend for ourselves with the projector running and the doors unlocked so we could leave when it was over.
Bud picked up his truck from the mechanic, where it was towed Friday when it stopped running for no apparent reason. I guess whatever got fixed wasn't all that was wrong -- because the truck's currently not running in front of our new garage.
We started what could become a new tradition: Christmas Eve Movie Night. We saw "Charlie Wilson's War," which we both enjoyed. There was not an employee to be found when we left the theater, almost like they left us to fend for ourselves with the projector running and the doors unlocked so we could leave when it was over.
Sunday, December 23, 2007
Days 109-110: Dec. 22-23, 2007
Oh, Christmas TV, oh, Christmas TV, how we enjoy thy HD football.
Our Christmas decorations are probably in the attic at the new house. So our gifts are piled under the television with care.
Our lack of tree, my favorite part of Christmas decorating, is symbolic of our holiday situation. Call it a transitional year. Many of our old traditions aren't available to us, but because we're still mid-construction, we can't start trying to form new habits yet.
We scraped the paint remover from Bud's workbench Sunday morning, and we relaxed most of the rest of the day. Bud's organizing our mounds of paperwork now, and I'm just enjoying the fact that I don't have to work 12 or 15 hours Monday.
Laura texted Saturday that the new, larger version of her family was on its way home. Talk about a perfect Christmas gift!
Our Christmas decorations are probably in the attic at the new house. So our gifts are piled under the television with care.
Our lack of tree, my favorite part of Christmas decorating, is symbolic of our holiday situation. Call it a transitional year. Many of our old traditions aren't available to us, but because we're still mid-construction, we can't start trying to form new habits yet.
We scraped the paint remover from Bud's workbench Sunday morning, and we relaxed most of the rest of the day. Bud's organizing our mounds of paperwork now, and I'm just enjoying the fact that I don't have to work 12 or 15 hours Monday.
Laura texted Saturday that the new, larger version of her family was on its way home. Talk about a perfect Christmas gift!
Friday, December 21, 2007
Day 108: Dec. 21, 2007
The Great Garage Move-In is steaming ahead full-speed. But things in the house are stalled 'til Wednesday.
The gas line was finally connected today, so now the garage is heated. Bud's sanding and filling the workbench he moved from the current garage. Soon he'll paint it, and then he plans to start stuffing the garage with his stuff.
In the house, Gary and Jimmy may exchange the wooden beam for a metal one -- if that means they won't have to install posts in the kitchen. The metal beam supplier won't be back in until Wednesday. In the meantime, I'm concocting ways to make a couple of posts work in conjunction with the island.
The Lance update is great. He seems to be doing well after receiving his shunt. And he's acing all sorts of tests: Bladder and bowel function, knee and hip movement, and hearing are all good. Surely a trip home is just around the corner.
The gas line was finally connected today, so now the garage is heated. Bud's sanding and filling the workbench he moved from the current garage. Soon he'll paint it, and then he plans to start stuffing the garage with his stuff.
In the house, Gary and Jimmy may exchange the wooden beam for a metal one -- if that means they won't have to install posts in the kitchen. The metal beam supplier won't be back in until Wednesday. In the meantime, I'm concocting ways to make a couple of posts work in conjunction with the island.
The Lance update is great. He seems to be doing well after receiving his shunt. And he's acing all sorts of tests: Bladder and bowel function, knee and hip movement, and hearing are all good. Surely a trip home is just around the corner.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Day 107: Dec. 20, 2007
Gary, Jimmy and Bud installed the ceiling beam today. Bud called so that I could come and document the action in photos, but I was too busy at work to leave. Grrrr.
The bad news is that we may end up with a post of some sort in the kitchen to help support the second floor. So long, wide open floor plan. I'm plenty grumpy about that right now.
Lots of other action at the house today. The bathtub from upstairs found a new home in the trash bin. The refrigerator moved to the garage. The upstairs plumbing is no more.
In baby news, Lance had surgery to have his shunt inserted. Last text I got from Laura, he was back in his room, receiving lots of comfort from Mommy and Daddy.
The bad news is that we may end up with a post of some sort in the kitchen to help support the second floor. So long, wide open floor plan. I'm plenty grumpy about that right now.
Lots of other action at the house today. The bathtub from upstairs found a new home in the trash bin. The refrigerator moved to the garage. The upstairs plumbing is no more.
In baby news, Lance had surgery to have his shunt inserted. Last text I got from Laura, he was back in his room, receiving lots of comfort from Mommy and Daddy.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Day 106: Dec. 19, 2007
When we awoke from our long Wednesday's nap, we found great progress at the other house.
The guys apparently were inspired to fill the new trash bin that arrived sometime today -- because the back of the house is finally gone. All that remains is the one little wall sticking out on the left in this photo.
Open the door that used to lead to the kitchen, and now you're in the great outdoors! It's pretty shocking.
That's temporary bracing you see along the back. It will be replaced by a beam -- and soon, we hope, because we like the second floor where it is.
I had big plans when I took my final vacation day of the year today. Instead, I spent it trying to sleep off a headache. Bud was nappy too because he's got a cold, which I hope he doesn't give me for Christmas.
The guys apparently were inspired to fill the new trash bin that arrived sometime today -- because the back of the house is finally gone. All that remains is the one little wall sticking out on the left in this photo.
Open the door that used to lead to the kitchen, and now you're in the great outdoors! It's pretty shocking.
That's temporary bracing you see along the back. It will be replaced by a beam -- and soon, we hope, because we like the second floor where it is.
I had big plans when I took my final vacation day of the year today. Instead, I spent it trying to sleep off a headache. Bud was nappy too because he's got a cold, which I hope he doesn't give me for Christmas.
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Day 105: Dec. 18, 2007
Look whose picture I found in my e-mail this morning! Someday I'll meet him in person. But it won't be soon enough.
Laura texted today that Lance probably will need a shunt, which will help drain spinal fluid from his brain. If he gets one, his hospital stay will have to be a little longer.
At the house, Gary and Jimmy built a temporary wall to support the second floor above the kitchen. They're preparing to remove an original wall. Bud dug through the trash bin, which will be replaced tomorrow, to rescue some trim we wanted to save.
Kentucky plays in a couple of hours. For good luck, we're planning to break in a UK shot glass that our friend Joe gave us. If it works, we'll have to start smuggling it into home games.
Laura texted today that Lance probably will need a shunt, which will help drain spinal fluid from his brain. If he gets one, his hospital stay will have to be a little longer.
At the house, Gary and Jimmy built a temporary wall to support the second floor above the kitchen. They're preparing to remove an original wall. Bud dug through the trash bin, which will be replaced tomorrow, to rescue some trim we wanted to save.
Kentucky plays in a couple of hours. For good luck, we're planning to break in a UK shot glass that our friend Joe gave us. If it works, we'll have to start smuggling it into home games.
Monday, December 17, 2007
Day 104: Dec. 17, 2007
See those two boxes there? Yellow Transportation delivered them today -- in an 18-wheeler. If you call it overkill, I'll understand.
Anyway, the range hood's here. Hooray.
Housewise, that's pretty much the only news. Bud talked with Gary and Jimmy for a half-hour or so this morning. He had other errands to run the rest of the day, and it was one of those days that we couldn't tell what happened by just looking around.
The baby has a name! Lance Edward. His surgery went well, and he's doing great. Laura's already been discharged from the hospital, and if Lance continues along the healthful path he's followed so far, he'll follow her later this week!
Bud bought a few Christmas gifts this afternoon, which we dropped in the mail this evening. For me, work was lighter but didn't go smoothly, so I'll be in extra-early tomorrow. Bleh.
Anyway, the range hood's here. Hooray.
Housewise, that's pretty much the only news. Bud talked with Gary and Jimmy for a half-hour or so this morning. He had other errands to run the rest of the day, and it was one of those days that we couldn't tell what happened by just looking around.
The baby has a name! Lance Edward. His surgery went well, and he's doing great. Laura's already been discharged from the hospital, and if Lance continues along the healthful path he's followed so far, he'll follow her later this week!
Bud bought a few Christmas gifts this afternoon, which we dropped in the mail this evening. For me, work was lighter but didn't go smoothly, so I'll be in extra-early tomorrow. Bleh.
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Day 103: Dec. 16, 2007
Solid-color stain is out. Having a wall that white would look even worse than having the one that's too gray.
As the stones sat in the kitchen drying the past couple of days, I started to believe they'd be a perfect match. But all the head games I had played with myself didn't make any difference when I finally took the stones to the other house. They're absolutely arctic against the original foundation.
So I returned to Home Depot tonight. Good news. The semi-transparent base is white. I bought a gallon and tried it out. I think we're going to need to add a little white tint to it, but I'll have a better idea after the second coat tomorrow.
Laura texted today, saying everything's OK and that she'll be calling and sending photos soon. I can hardly wait to see that kid!
As the stones sat in the kitchen drying the past couple of days, I started to believe they'd be a perfect match. But all the head games I had played with myself didn't make any difference when I finally took the stones to the other house. They're absolutely arctic against the original foundation.
So I returned to Home Depot tonight. Good news. The semi-transparent base is white. I bought a gallon and tried it out. I think we're going to need to add a little white tint to it, but I'll have a better idea after the second coat tomorrow.
Laura texted today, saying everything's OK and that she'll be calling and sending photos soon. I can hardly wait to see that kid!
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Day 102: Dec. 15, 2007
OK, no more snoring during Kentucky basketball games. Apparently, when I fall asleep at home, the Cats take a nap on the floor. A three-point loss. To UAB? After blowing a 14-point lead! Can you feel my head shaking?
Braving sleet and very cold rain, we waited about two hours this morning at the other house (no electricity) for the new washer and dryer to arrive.
We certainly aren't ready for them yet, but there was method in our early-bird madness. In case the washer and dryer wouldn't go up the stairs, we wanted them on hand when the side of the house comes off to place the whirlpool tub in the expanded second-story bathroom.
Luckily, we didn't have a problem. In fact the delivery guys were so good that they took a door off its hinges and hurdled the toilet in the downstairs half-bath to take away the old washer and dryer.
The garage got its first full-time residents this morning when Bud moved his mom's car, which he's cleaning up to sell, and his own car into the back two bays.
I napped through the time I felt comfortable calling Louis or someone else who's with Laura, and I haven't heard anything. So I'll call tomorrow.
Oh, and I almost forgot to mention the happiest news of the day. My friend Brian and his fiancee, Janie, got married today. Congratulations and best wishes, guys!
Braving sleet and very cold rain, we waited about two hours this morning at the other house (no electricity) for the new washer and dryer to arrive.
We certainly aren't ready for them yet, but there was method in our early-bird madness. In case the washer and dryer wouldn't go up the stairs, we wanted them on hand when the side of the house comes off to place the whirlpool tub in the expanded second-story bathroom.
Luckily, we didn't have a problem. In fact the delivery guys were so good that they took a door off its hinges and hurdled the toilet in the downstairs half-bath to take away the old washer and dryer.
The garage got its first full-time residents this morning when Bud moved his mom's car, which he's cleaning up to sell, and his own car into the back two bays.
I napped through the time I felt comfortable calling Louis or someone else who's with Laura, and I haven't heard anything. So I'll call tomorrow.
Oh, and I almost forgot to mention the happiest news of the day. My friend Brian and his fiancee, Janie, got married today. Congratulations and best wishes, guys!
Friday, December 14, 2007
Day 101: Dec. 14, 2007
Tough day. I went to Rusty's funeral, and I still can't make myself believe we'll never see him again. I don't know what else to say. It just doesn't seem possible.
I haven't heard any more from Louis or Laura, so I'm planning to try to call someone tomorrow for an update. I'm sure they have their hands full. If all went according to plan, the baby should have had surgery today to close his lesion.
At the house, the garage passed its final building inspection. Bud celebrated by pressure washing the garage floor tonight. He wanted to give it time to dry so that he can start moving stuff in tomorrow.
Concrete stains are becoming my new obsession. The transparent stain Bud picked up the other day was, you guessed it, not dark enough. Tonight, we went to Home Depot in search of a semi-transparent stain -- which, it turns out, isn't available in white. So we bought the solid color stain. I applied it to two leftover stones when we got home, and as I suspected, they look as if they've been painted white.
I have two new plans of attack for tomorrow. One is to head back to Home Depot and ask the paint guy to open a can of the semi-transparent base. (Tints are added to the base to color it.) I'm hoping it's white.
If that doesn't work out, I'll make myself a half-transparent/half-solid mix from the two products we already have. It would be a nightmare to have to do that for the entire wall, but anything's worth a try right now.
Both Lowe's and Yellow Transportation called today to schedule deliveries. The washer and dryer should arrive at the other house tomorrow morning. We hope the Lowe's delivery people will take them upstairs for us. If not, we may just store them in the garage. The range hood should be here at the current house Monday afternoon.
I haven't heard any more from Louis or Laura, so I'm planning to try to call someone tomorrow for an update. I'm sure they have their hands full. If all went according to plan, the baby should have had surgery today to close his lesion.
At the house, the garage passed its final building inspection. Bud celebrated by pressure washing the garage floor tonight. He wanted to give it time to dry so that he can start moving stuff in tomorrow.
Concrete stains are becoming my new obsession. The transparent stain Bud picked up the other day was, you guessed it, not dark enough. Tonight, we went to Home Depot in search of a semi-transparent stain -- which, it turns out, isn't available in white. So we bought the solid color stain. I applied it to two leftover stones when we got home, and as I suspected, they look as if they've been painted white.
I have two new plans of attack for tomorrow. One is to head back to Home Depot and ask the paint guy to open a can of the semi-transparent base. (Tints are added to the base to color it.) I'm hoping it's white.
If that doesn't work out, I'll make myself a half-transparent/half-solid mix from the two products we already have. It would be a nightmare to have to do that for the entire wall, but anything's worth a try right now.
Both Lowe's and Yellow Transportation called today to schedule deliveries. The washer and dryer should arrive at the other house tomorrow morning. We hope the Lowe's delivery people will take them upstairs for us. If not, we may just store them in the garage. The range hood should be here at the current house Monday afternoon.
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Day 100: Dec. 13, 2007
Happy Birthday, Baby! I hope. (And if so, I also hope you have a name by now.)
Laura called me this afternoon about an hour before her C-section was scheduled. We haven't heard anything since, so my fingers are still crossed. Yes, it makes typing more difficult.
At the house, somehow the bathroom seems smaller now that almost everything's out of it. Isn't that strange? The garage plumbing passed inspection today. Overall inspection still to come.
Oh, I almost forgot. Bud found out Suri's real name today. It's Zuri. So close.
FABULOUS, WONDERFUL UPDATE: Louis called. The baby's here! And he and Laura are both doing well. 7 pounds, 10 ounces. Black wavy hair. No name.
Laura called me this afternoon about an hour before her C-section was scheduled. We haven't heard anything since, so my fingers are still crossed. Yes, it makes typing more difficult.
At the house, somehow the bathroom seems smaller now that almost everything's out of it. Isn't that strange? The garage plumbing passed inspection today. Overall inspection still to come.
Oh, I almost forgot. Bud found out Suri's real name today. It's Zuri. So close.
FABULOUS, WONDERFUL UPDATE: Louis called. The baby's here! And he and Laura are both doing well. 7 pounds, 10 ounces. Black wavy hair. No name.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Day 99: Dec. 12, 2007
Although we still haven't heard anything official about Rusty's death, I understand that so far it appears to be natural. He'd had odd blood pressure issues lately -- very high, very low, just all over the map -- and some severe headaches too. Aneurysm seems a likely suspect.
His visitation is tomorrow night, and the funeral is planned for Friday afternoon. At work, it was another day of phone calls and e-mails, and another day of trying to handle the pre-Christmas onslaught of special-section deadlines. The two don't mix well.
At the house, it apparently was business as usual: detail work in the garage and Suri's upstairs escapades.
Bud hit the road this morning to pick up our quart of white stain. I'm so excited about it, and yet, I'm too tired to try it out. It has taken a place of importance on tomorrow's to-do list.
Bud also took his motorcycle to the Harley dealership for a checkup. Last time he rode, he encountered a pretty heavy-duty bump, which he thinks may have loosened his handlebars at the least.
Laura and Louis arrived tonight at the hotel where they'll stay 'til their baby is born. (Which might be tomorrow. Woo hoo!) He has spina bifida, so they're getting some specialized care.
His visitation is tomorrow night, and the funeral is planned for Friday afternoon. At work, it was another day of phone calls and e-mails, and another day of trying to handle the pre-Christmas onslaught of special-section deadlines. The two don't mix well.
At the house, it apparently was business as usual: detail work in the garage and Suri's upstairs escapades.
Bud hit the road this morning to pick up our quart of white stain. I'm so excited about it, and yet, I'm too tired to try it out. It has taken a place of importance on tomorrow's to-do list.
Bud also took his motorcycle to the Harley dealership for a checkup. Last time he rode, he encountered a pretty heavy-duty bump, which he thinks may have loosened his handlebars at the least.
Laura and Louis arrived tonight at the hotel where they'll stay 'til their baby is born. (Which might be tomorrow. Woo hoo!) He has spina bifida, so they're getting some specialized care.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Day 98: Dec. 11, 2007
I've been up for just less than 20 hours, on about three hours of restless sleep. In other words: Beware! Nonsense and rambling ahead.
No official word yet on what caused Rusty's death. The preliminary autopsy was today; apparently more detailed exams and tests will follow. His family plans to make arrangements tomorrow, I think.
Krissy, Rusty's sister, is holding up remarkably well. As shocked as we are as Rusty's friends, I know our pain and disbelief don't even register compared what she's experiencing.
Calls and e-mails of concern and condolence poured into our office from around the state and country all day after our company president sent a memo to our sister publications. Concentrating on pages and deadlines was practically impossible. Not that it would have been easy anyway.
In much happier news, our friends Laura and Louis are just days away from parenthood! Laura could deliver their baby boy by C-section as early as Thursday. We can hardly wait to meet him!
When I finally escaped the office this evening, Bud and I ate our fast-food dinner in the new garage. Gary, Jimmy and Bud installed some of the old kitchen cabinets in there today. They look great.
Also, the garage now has a functioning bathroom. The vanity, toilet and heat are all operational. Bud bought supplies tonight -- paper towels, soft soap, toilet paper, a small trash can. He's nesting.
Inside the house, Suri continued upstairs demolition. I'll never be able to show you the "before" bathroom, but this picture should give you a pretty good idea. Just picture plaster on the walls and a mirrored medicine cabinet above the sink.
No official word yet on what caused Rusty's death. The preliminary autopsy was today; apparently more detailed exams and tests will follow. His family plans to make arrangements tomorrow, I think.
Krissy, Rusty's sister, is holding up remarkably well. As shocked as we are as Rusty's friends, I know our pain and disbelief don't even register compared what she's experiencing.
Calls and e-mails of concern and condolence poured into our office from around the state and country all day after our company president sent a memo to our sister publications. Concentrating on pages and deadlines was practically impossible. Not that it would have been easy anyway.
In much happier news, our friends Laura and Louis are just days away from parenthood! Laura could deliver their baby boy by C-section as early as Thursday. We can hardly wait to meet him!
When I finally escaped the office this evening, Bud and I ate our fast-food dinner in the new garage. Gary, Jimmy and Bud installed some of the old kitchen cabinets in there today. They look great.
Also, the garage now has a functioning bathroom. The vanity, toilet and heat are all operational. Bud bought supplies tonight -- paper towels, soft soap, toilet paper, a small trash can. He's nesting.
Inside the house, Suri continued upstairs demolition. I'll never be able to show you the "before" bathroom, but this picture should give you a pretty good idea. Just picture plaster on the walls and a mirrored medicine cabinet above the sink.
Monday, December 10, 2007
Day 97: Dec. 10, 2007
Our friend Rusty was found dead at his home this morning. He was only 38. We don't know the cause.
When it came to computers and technology, Rusty was truly gifted. He worked in graphics at our newspaper until a few years ago, when he took an IT position at our parent company's central office.
His sister, who also used to work at the paper, called the office to let us know. The news was so unexpected that we were more willing to believe she was kidding than that her report was true. Sadly, Krissy wasn't joking with us this time.
Before we received that shocking news, it was an average construction day. The rain just keeps coming, so the guys covered the entire back of the house with a tarp.
Suri set to work on demolition upstairs, where we're expanding the bathroom and relocating the laundry room. We didn't take a look up there this evening before it got dark, so I don't have photos yet. And we weren't prepared for the upstairs work to start so soon, so I don't think we have any before pictures either.
The plumbers finally showed up today to install the toilet and vanity in the garage bathroom. Remember when we bought the vanity on Nov. 29 and it was going to be installed "tomorrow"? Well, the guys unboxed it when the plumbers arrived -- and it was broken.
So Bud had to exchange it this afternoon. He tried to encourage the plumbers to come back tomorrow.
I finally received new stain sample from the furniture makers today. It was postmarked Saturday. Ahem.
When it came to computers and technology, Rusty was truly gifted. He worked in graphics at our newspaper until a few years ago, when he took an IT position at our parent company's central office.
His sister, who also used to work at the paper, called the office to let us know. The news was so unexpected that we were more willing to believe she was kidding than that her report was true. Sadly, Krissy wasn't joking with us this time.
Before we received that shocking news, it was an average construction day. The rain just keeps coming, so the guys covered the entire back of the house with a tarp.
Suri set to work on demolition upstairs, where we're expanding the bathroom and relocating the laundry room. We didn't take a look up there this evening before it got dark, so I don't have photos yet. And we weren't prepared for the upstairs work to start so soon, so I don't think we have any before pictures either.
The plumbers finally showed up today to install the toilet and vanity in the garage bathroom. Remember when we bought the vanity on Nov. 29 and it was going to be installed "tomorrow"? Well, the guys unboxed it when the plumbers arrived -- and it was broken.
So Bud had to exchange it this afternoon. He tried to encourage the plumbers to come back tomorrow.
I finally received new stain sample from the furniture makers today. It was postmarked Saturday. Ahem.
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Day 96: Dec. 9, 2007
Rainy Sunday. I'm taking a break from some work I brought home. Bud's watching a movie.
We stopped by the house this morning, but there's nothing new to report. Suri may be a weekend worker, but apparently even he takes Sundays off.
At the office, we picked up some of the boxes that have been, um, in temporary storage by my desk. Bud's going to use them pack up the garage here at the current house.
The photo is another from last night. When the plaster came down, we discovered a small chimney we didn't know we had -- the broom's leaning on it in this picture. I'm not sure what that means for the cabinet layout.
We stopped by the house this morning, but there's nothing new to report. Suri may be a weekend worker, but apparently even he takes Sundays off.
At the office, we picked up some of the boxes that have been, um, in temporary storage by my desk. Bud's going to use them pack up the garage here at the current house.
The photo is another from last night. When the plaster came down, we discovered a small chimney we didn't know we had -- the broom's leaning on it in this picture. I'm not sure what that means for the cabinet layout.
Saturday, December 8, 2007
Day 95: Dec. 8, 2007
Our quest for white concrete stain wasn't as simple as I imagined, but we should have a quart of our very own by Wednesday anyway.
Website printout in hand, we stopped by the local paint/flooring place that carries the stain. When I requested white, the woman looked as if I had asked for neon orange. I showed her that the website listed "quartz white," but she didn't seem interested in ordering it or making any suggestions. So we left her to her customer-free store.
At home, I called the next closest place listed on the site. The phone was disconnected.
I hit the a home run on the third try, though.
Dwight was more than happy to help, even though by now it was just a few minutes before his store was closing. He didn't have white in stock either, so I explained how we wanted to use the stain, asking whether he thought it was worth special-ordering some to test on unused stone.
Since he wasn't familiar with the white, he wanted to research whether it would give us the effect we're looking for. He said he'd call back Monday, but my cell phone rang in about 15 minutes. He said the stain seemed to be a slightly grayish white on the color chart and he thought it might work well. So I bought the quart.
When we stopped by the house this morning, Gary and Jimmy's new assistant was tearing out plaster. (Bud thinks his name sounds something like "Suri," so that what I'll call him 'til we find out we're wrong.) That's the first Saturday work we've seen in a while!
We stopped by this evening and, with the help of a flashlight and the camera's flash, we saw that the blue walls of the pantry are gone.
Website printout in hand, we stopped by the local paint/flooring place that carries the stain. When I requested white, the woman looked as if I had asked for neon orange. I showed her that the website listed "quartz white," but she didn't seem interested in ordering it or making any suggestions. So we left her to her customer-free store.
At home, I called the next closest place listed on the site. The phone was disconnected.
I hit the a home run on the third try, though.
Dwight was more than happy to help, even though by now it was just a few minutes before his store was closing. He didn't have white in stock either, so I explained how we wanted to use the stain, asking whether he thought it was worth special-ordering some to test on unused stone.
Since he wasn't familiar with the white, he wanted to research whether it would give us the effect we're looking for. He said he'd call back Monday, but my cell phone rang in about 15 minutes. He said the stain seemed to be a slightly grayish white on the color chart and he thought it might work well. So I bought the quart.
When we stopped by the house this morning, Gary and Jimmy's new assistant was tearing out plaster. (Bud thinks his name sounds something like "Suri," so that what I'll call him 'til we find out we're wrong.) That's the first Saturday work we've seen in a while!
We stopped by this evening and, with the help of a flashlight and the camera's flash, we saw that the blue walls of the pantry are gone.
Friday, December 7, 2007
Day 94: Dec. 7, 2007
Seems that the stone guys are determined to finish the job today. We stopped by the house around 7 p.m., and they were still working -- by the light of the garage.
Searching around online earlier this evening, I found a transparent acrylic-based concrete stain that might work for whitening the stone. (White is one of the available tints.) The added good news is that its sold by a home-improvement place right here in town.
The new trash bin arrived this morning. Gary, Jimmy and their new assistant got a good start on filling it by hauling over wheelbarrowsful of the kitchen-demolition debris that had been lying around. Turns out that the convenient spot beside the addition where they hoped to put the bin wasn't such a good place after all, so this bin's right back where the first one sat.
The garage passed its final electric inspection this afternoon. Also, the trench that holds the gas, water, telephone and cable lines was filled.
We still haven't received the darker finish sample from the furniture makers. I called at lunch and left a message asking whether I should be concerned. They didn't call back, so I'm kind of assuming that means they don't think it should have arrived yet.
Searching around online earlier this evening, I found a transparent acrylic-based concrete stain that might work for whitening the stone. (White is one of the available tints.) The added good news is that its sold by a home-improvement place right here in town.
The new trash bin arrived this morning. Gary, Jimmy and their new assistant got a good start on filling it by hauling over wheelbarrowsful of the kitchen-demolition debris that had been lying around. Turns out that the convenient spot beside the addition where they hoped to put the bin wasn't such a good place after all, so this bin's right back where the first one sat.
The garage passed its final electric inspection this afternoon. Also, the trench that holds the gas, water, telephone and cable lines was filled.
We still haven't received the darker finish sample from the furniture makers. I called at lunch and left a message asking whether I should be concerned. They didn't call back, so I'm kind of assuming that means they don't think it should have arrived yet.
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Day 93: Dec. 6, 2007
Kitchen demo is under way again. Seeing the room stripped down to the studs is exciting and scary.
Despite near-freezing temperatures, the stone masons showed up again. Guess what. It's more than a three-day job. Surprise.
Snow's predicted again tonight. (We didn't get anything except a little rain last time.) I'm certainly not one to hope against a good snow, but I would like the facade to be finished.
Bud had the biggest job today. He cleaned out his workbench here at the current house, and then he, Gary and Jimmy moved it to the new garage, where it's sitting in the middle of the floor right now.
Despite near-freezing temperatures, the stone masons showed up again. Guess what. It's more than a three-day job. Surprise.
Snow's predicted again tonight. (We didn't get anything except a little rain last time.) I'm certainly not one to hope against a good snow, but I would like the facade to be finished.
Bud had the biggest job today. He cleaned out his workbench here at the current house, and then he, Gary and Jimmy moved it to the new garage, where it's sitting in the middle of the floor right now.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Day 92: Dec. 5, 2007
Well, any way you count it, we've been under construction three months. Our money is on at least three more.
The stone masons showed up for the second day in a row. Today, they mortared some of what they put up yesterday, using a mortar that they dyed brown to be a closer match to the original.
If I could follow behind them with a big vat of whitewash, I would. The color difference in the stone is making me a little crazy.
In the garage, Gary, Jimmy and Tom continued with paint and floor/wall trim.
Our friend Joe and his dad took some of the firewood we've created this year off our hands. At least those trees' deaths don't have to be in vain now; they'll be making someone warm this winter.
The stone masons showed up for the second day in a row. Today, they mortared some of what they put up yesterday, using a mortar that they dyed brown to be a closer match to the original.
If I could follow behind them with a big vat of whitewash, I would. The color difference in the stone is making me a little crazy.
In the garage, Gary, Jimmy and Tom continued with paint and floor/wall trim.
Our friend Joe and his dad took some of the firewood we've created this year off our hands. At least those trees' deaths don't have to be in vain now; they'll be making someone warm this winter.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Day 91: Dec. 4, 2007
Just when we had lost hope, the stone masons showed up. I'd like to take credit for sounding extra-menacing when I left a message earlier, but I think they just read our minds. Or it might have been a coincidence.
The stone looks too dark. Of course that's because it is darker than the foundation -- actually even some darker than the sample we picked up way back when we found these guys. And that sample was darker than the foundation to start with, but it was the lightest thing we found anywhere.
But at least it's gray -- not brown or pink. We'll whitewash it in the spring, I think. (LOL. Unintentional Seuss there.)
The masons said the foundation's a three-day job. But it's supposed to snow or rain tomorrow, then turn cold for several days. So who knows when it will be finished. I'm just glad it's started!
Bud was all kinds of busy today with many, many projects. He ran around town searching for RG6 cable that was rated for underground use so that he could run cable TV from the house to the garage while they still had the trench open for the water and gas lines. Then he hand-buried that cable and the phone line from the house to the trench and from the trench to the garage.
His next most important project, in my opinion, was the new license plate he got for the Jeep. The state released new University of Kentucky plates this year, and this time they don't suck. So now I have one! Yay!
In the garage, Gary and Jimmy began installing some sort of metal trim around the inside where the walls meet the floor. They said it will protect the walls from water when we wash the floor. They also installed the pull-down ladder that gives us access to the garage attic. Oh, and the outside lights work now, including the motion sensor at the entry.
As soon as the water and gas are completely installed, we can have the final inspection. And then we can start putting stuff in the garage. How's that for progress?
The stone looks too dark. Of course that's because it is darker than the foundation -- actually even some darker than the sample we picked up way back when we found these guys. And that sample was darker than the foundation to start with, but it was the lightest thing we found anywhere.
But at least it's gray -- not brown or pink. We'll whitewash it in the spring, I think. (LOL. Unintentional Seuss there.)
The masons said the foundation's a three-day job. But it's supposed to snow or rain tomorrow, then turn cold for several days. So who knows when it will be finished. I'm just glad it's started!
Bud was all kinds of busy today with many, many projects. He ran around town searching for RG6 cable that was rated for underground use so that he could run cable TV from the house to the garage while they still had the trench open for the water and gas lines. Then he hand-buried that cable and the phone line from the house to the trench and from the trench to the garage.
His next most important project, in my opinion, was the new license plate he got for the Jeep. The state released new University of Kentucky plates this year, and this time they don't suck. So now I have one! Yay!
In the garage, Gary and Jimmy began installing some sort of metal trim around the inside where the walls meet the floor. They said it will protect the walls from water when we wash the floor. They also installed the pull-down ladder that gives us access to the garage attic. Oh, and the outside lights work now, including the motion sensor at the entry.
As soon as the water and gas are completely installed, we can have the final inspection. And then we can start putting stuff in the garage. How's that for progress?
Monday, December 3, 2007
Day 90: Dec. 3, 2007
Suddenly, we're moving in slow motion. Just more paint in the garage today. The stone layers did not show up. And did not call. I am not pleased.
Sunday, December 2, 2007
Days 88-89: Dec. 1-2, 2007
Today's plan: Start working on Christmas cards. Visit the older homes on the local Christmas homes tour. Wash lots of clothes.
What actually happened: Made chili. Watched a movie ("Mr. Brooks" -- very interesting). Took a deer-looking ride.
The Kentucky game sucked up most of yesterday. We expected the loss and actually were glad it wasn't worse. I can't believe I wrote that.
What actually happened: Made chili. Watched a movie ("Mr. Brooks" -- very interesting). Took a deer-looking ride.
The Kentucky game sucked up most of yesterday. We expected the loss and actually were glad it wasn't worse. I can't believe I wrote that.
Friday, November 30, 2007
Day 87: Nov. 30, 2007
Gary, Jimmy and Tom put the first coat of paint on most of the garage's interior today. Of course, you can't really see that in the picture, but at least it shows the lights that were installed yesterday.
Laverne called with a couple more questions about the vanities. He said he'd already mailed the darker finish sample, so I'm hoping that will arrive tomorrow or Monday.
Our friend Laura got to check out our progress in person again today. In a couple of weeks, she'll be way too busy stop by (but in a good way), so I'm glad she had time for a quick tour this morning.
Laverne called with a couple more questions about the vanities. He said he'd already mailed the darker finish sample, so I'm hoping that will arrive tomorrow or Monday.
Our friend Laura got to check out our progress in person again today. In a couple of weeks, she'll be way too busy stop by (but in a good way), so I'm glad she had time for a quick tour this morning.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Day 86: Nov. 29, 2007
The truck and the Jeep both made their first appearances in the garage today! Thanks to the six dump-truck loads of gravel that form the base of our new driveway, it's now possible to drive into the bays.
Actually, it was a pretty big day in the life of the garage, which also sports gutters, a textured ceiling and one row of interior lights now. And tonight, Bud and I bought a vanity, which will be installed tomorrow in the garage bathroom.
Meanwhile, the stacks of stone for the foundation's facade continue to sit in the way of our getting a new trash bin. And Jonas, the stone manufacturer, called tonight to say that his guy is running a day behind on the job he's currently doing.
Our foundation is now scheduled for Monday. I tried to use my patient voice when I explained that their stuff is in our contractors' way. We may need to try a different approach when we lay the stone for the fireplace.
Actually, it was a pretty big day in the life of the garage, which also sports gutters, a textured ceiling and one row of interior lights now. And tonight, Bud and I bought a vanity, which will be installed tomorrow in the garage bathroom.
Meanwhile, the stacks of stone for the foundation's facade continue to sit in the way of our getting a new trash bin. And Jonas, the stone manufacturer, called tonight to say that his guy is running a day behind on the job he's currently doing.
Our foundation is now scheduled for Monday. I tried to use my patient voice when I explained that their stuff is in our contractors' way. We may need to try a different approach when we lay the stone for the fireplace.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Day 85: Nov. 28, 2007
Our remodel kept us warm tonight. The fire Bud built in the fireplace where we live now was fueled by yellow poplar from the demolition that's going on at the other house.
Gary, Jimmy and Bud continued to take down the roof on the back of the house today, while Tom carefully removed the trim from the windows and doors of the kitchen.
The tree trimmers were there briefly to remove a few low branches from the big pine that's between the house and the garage.
I stopped by on my way back to work after lunch to ask Gary the Amish guys' questions about the vanities. While I was there, he showed me that structurally, there's probably no way to avoid putting a beam in the kitchen.
I'm disappointed, but I guess the alternative is wearing the second floor as a hat. The pantry wall, which is coming out, fills a gap in the original beam that spans the house at that point.
I talked with Laverne, the main man at the Amish furniture place, this afternoon. He's mailing us a sample of a darker finish than we originally chose. We'll mail back our approval (I hope), along with the answers to their questions and the down payment. We'll have our vanities by the end of January. Woo hoo!
Gary, Jimmy and Bud continued to take down the roof on the back of the house today, while Tom carefully removed the trim from the windows and doors of the kitchen.
The tree trimmers were there briefly to remove a few low branches from the big pine that's between the house and the garage.
I stopped by on my way back to work after lunch to ask Gary the Amish guys' questions about the vanities. While I was there, he showed me that structurally, there's probably no way to avoid putting a beam in the kitchen.
I'm disappointed, but I guess the alternative is wearing the second floor as a hat. The pantry wall, which is coming out, fills a gap in the original beam that spans the house at that point.
I talked with Laverne, the main man at the Amish furniture place, this afternoon. He's mailing us a sample of a darker finish than we originally chose. We'll mail back our approval (I hope), along with the answers to their questions and the down payment. We'll have our vanities by the end of January. Woo hoo!
Day 84: Nov. 27, 2007
Gary and Jimmy tore out the base cabinets in the kitchen and removed the overhang from the back door.
They also moved the refrigerator from the kitchen to the doorway of what Bud's dad called "the breakfast room," which is soon to begin a new life as Bud's office.
That refrigerator needs to go to the garage, but there's not really a good way to get it there -- no steps from the back and no driveway from the front.
And besides, the drywall subcontractors are still are at work in the garage anyway. They continued to sand today, and they still have to texture the ceiling. And then there's paint after that.
The gravel for the driveway base won't arrive until at least Thursday, which means we haven't gotten a replacement trash bin yet -- which means the waste from the kitchen demolition is going out the back door and onto the ground.
Now that real work finally has begun on the house, our feet are getting a little cold. (Figuratively. It certainly isn't warm outside, but that's not what I meant, silly!) We're telling ourselves we won't regret this.
They also moved the refrigerator from the kitchen to the doorway of what Bud's dad called "the breakfast room," which is soon to begin a new life as Bud's office.
That refrigerator needs to go to the garage, but there's not really a good way to get it there -- no steps from the back and no driveway from the front.
And besides, the drywall subcontractors are still are at work in the garage anyway. They continued to sand today, and they still have to texture the ceiling. And then there's paint after that.
The gravel for the driveway base won't arrive until at least Thursday, which means we haven't gotten a replacement trash bin yet -- which means the waste from the kitchen demolition is going out the back door and onto the ground.
Now that real work finally has begun on the house, our feet are getting a little cold. (Figuratively. It certainly isn't warm outside, but that's not what I meant, silly!) We're telling ourselves we won't regret this.
Monday, November 26, 2007
Day 83: Nov. 26, 2007
Rain day. Very little work: The drywall guy did some sanding.
We got mail from the Amish furniture makers this afternoon. They need to know exactly where the plumbing for the vanity will exit the wall in each bathroom, that sort of thing.
Bud stayed busy today running all sorts of errands. I'm headed back to work now -- to make my best effort at getting away in time for the game tomorrow.
No photos for three consecutive posts. Feelin' pretty guilty about that.
We got mail from the Amish furniture makers this afternoon. They need to know exactly where the plumbing for the vanity will exit the wall in each bathroom, that sort of thing.
Bud stayed busy today running all sorts of errands. I'm headed back to work now -- to make my best effort at getting away in time for the game tomorrow.
No photos for three consecutive posts. Feelin' pretty guilty about that.
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Day 82: Nov. 25, 2007
Pretty much no news of any sort today.
Because the past couple of nights have been fairly cold, we checked on the pipes at all the houses this afternoon. Nothing frozen.
Other than that, we mostly napped and watched TV. We finished thank you cards for the most recent batch of donations to the Humane Society in Ann's memory. And we made the rounds to our usual deer-sighting haunts.
Finally -- enough days off in a row that we really had a chance to relax. We should have given thanks for that Thursday.
Because the past couple of nights have been fairly cold, we checked on the pipes at all the houses this afternoon. Nothing frozen.
Other than that, we mostly napped and watched TV. We finished thank you cards for the most recent batch of donations to the Humane Society in Ann's memory. And we made the rounds to our usual deer-sighting haunts.
Finally -- enough days off in a row that we really had a chance to relax. We should have given thanks for that Thursday.
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Day 81: Nov. 24, 2007
After four overtimes, "disappointing" doesn't do the Kentucky football outcome justice. On the bright side, the basketball team seemed to gel a little more tonight.
We checked on the other houses on our way home from the game and didn't see anything out of place. We now have a sign from the HVAC subcontractor in the front yard to go with our fancy house number and the stone manufacturer's sign. It's getting crowed out there.
Speaking of the stone guys, Jonas called Bud this afternoon and said they're planning to start laying the facade either Thursday or Friday.
I know the stone pattern won't match exactly. The original foundation was laid in straight lines, and the new stones are all different sizes. But I think that'll be OK. And while the color's not as white as our 100-year-sun-bleached original, at least it's off to the gray side instead of the pinkish taupe ridiculousness we were given at first. I'm excited to see it go up.
We checked on the other houses on our way home from the game and didn't see anything out of place. We now have a sign from the HVAC subcontractor in the front yard to go with our fancy house number and the stone manufacturer's sign. It's getting crowed out there.
Speaking of the stone guys, Jonas called Bud this afternoon and said they're planning to start laying the facade either Thursday or Friday.
I know the stone pattern won't match exactly. The original foundation was laid in straight lines, and the new stones are all different sizes. But I think that'll be OK. And while the color's not as white as our 100-year-sun-bleached original, at least it's off to the gray side instead of the pinkish taupe ridiculousness we were given at first. I'm excited to see it go up.
Friday, November 23, 2007
Day 80: Nov. 23, 2007
Since I wasn't smart enough to take a camera to the farm for Thanksgiving, I'm finally posting the most recent CAD drawing of the kitchen. Maybe we'll spend next Thanksgiving there.
We checked out the other house late this morning but didn't find anyone working. Bud did a great job of cleaning up yesterday, though.
Jamie came over in the early afternoon after a morning round of after-Thanksgiving sale shopping. We all hung out for a while and then headed for the farm.
Linda, Bud and I rode along while Bill gave Jamie a tour of the farm. When we got back, the rest of the gang joined us for a delicious Thanksgiving dinner.
We missed Dad since he and his wife, Ann, have been in Florida this week. Linda was dogsitting for them, so at least Daisy and Ali were there.
We checked out the other house late this morning but didn't find anyone working. Bud did a great job of cleaning up yesterday, though.
Jamie came over in the early afternoon after a morning round of after-Thanksgiving sale shopping. We all hung out for a while and then headed for the farm.
Linda, Bud and I rode along while Bill gave Jamie a tour of the farm. When we got back, the rest of the gang joined us for a delicious Thanksgiving dinner.
We missed Dad since he and his wife, Ann, have been in Florida this week. Linda was dogsitting for them, so at least Daisy and Ali were there.
Day 79: Nov. 22, 2007
After brunch and some parade-watching, Bud suggested that it might be a good (read: uncrowded) day to visit the Sportsman Club. A huge dark cloud loomed as we loaded his truck with targets, pistols, hearing protection, safety glasses.
We hung a target, and I proceeded to miss almost everything in sight. Poor Bud fired just two rounds before it started raining and hailing.
Later in the afternoon, Bud cleaned his almost-garage while I cooked our feast. He's eager to get into the new garage, and I can't blame him. I'm excited to use the new kitchen, and it's not even really started yet.
Sadly, we can't give the turducken roll a thumbs up. Even with the recommended turkey bag, it was kind of dry. Because Bud wanted brown gravy with his mashed potatoes, I hadn't planned to make gravy from the drippings -- which was fortunate because there was virtually nothing there to work with! So the texture wasn't great, but the taste was good. Maybe a whole turducken would fare better.
The chipotle scalloped sweet potatoes were tasty. I'll be taking those -- and probably some wine and maybe a broccoli casserole -- when we go to the farm to celebrate Thanksgiving with Linda and the gang.
I've got one more run of the dishwasher, must be the 40th of the day. I'm hoping by the time I get it loaded, I'll be ready for another nap. Happy Thanksgiving!
We hung a target, and I proceeded to miss almost everything in sight. Poor Bud fired just two rounds before it started raining and hailing.
Later in the afternoon, Bud cleaned his almost-garage while I cooked our feast. He's eager to get into the new garage, and I can't blame him. I'm excited to use the new kitchen, and it's not even really started yet.
Sadly, we can't give the turducken roll a thumbs up. Even with the recommended turkey bag, it was kind of dry. Because Bud wanted brown gravy with his mashed potatoes, I hadn't planned to make gravy from the drippings -- which was fortunate because there was virtually nothing there to work with! So the texture wasn't great, but the taste was good. Maybe a whole turducken would fare better.
The chipotle scalloped sweet potatoes were tasty. I'll be taking those -- and probably some wine and maybe a broccoli casserole -- when we go to the farm to celebrate Thanksgiving with Linda and the gang.
I've got one more run of the dishwasher, must be the 40th of the day. I'm hoping by the time I get it loaded, I'll be ready for another nap. Happy Thanksgiving!
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Day 78: Nov. 21, 2007
The garage door installers did their thing today. All five doors seem to be working fine. The garage feels this close to complete now.
Still there's painting, the ceiling finish work, the bathroom fixtures. But the fact that it can be entirely locked somehow makes the end seem nearer.
Bud, Jamie and the dogs hung out again this morning. I worked all day, but at least it was for the last time 'til Monday.
The turducken arrived safely this afternoon and currently is thawing the refrigerator. I'm about to head to the kitchen to make a pumpkin cheesecake. Or maybe mini-cheesecakes. I'll decide when I start pouring.
After Kentucky's last performance, a win wasn't a foregone conclusion tonight. So we were glad the Cats made our Rupp visit worthwhile.
Bud caught one of the t-shirts they throw into the crowd at the game. It was from Qdoba, and because of the way it was wrapped, I genuinely was worried I was opening real burrito instead of a shirt. In retrospect, it was ridiculous to think even for a second that they were throwing burritos at the fans. But it seemed possible at the time. At least to me.
Still there's painting, the ceiling finish work, the bathroom fixtures. But the fact that it can be entirely locked somehow makes the end seem nearer.
Bud, Jamie and the dogs hung out again this morning. I worked all day, but at least it was for the last time 'til Monday.
The turducken arrived safely this afternoon and currently is thawing the refrigerator. I'm about to head to the kitchen to make a pumpkin cheesecake. Or maybe mini-cheesecakes. I'll decide when I start pouring.
After Kentucky's last performance, a win wasn't a foregone conclusion tonight. So we were glad the Cats made our Rupp visit worthwhile.
Bud caught one of the t-shirts they throw into the crowd at the game. It was from Qdoba, and because of the way it was wrapped, I genuinely was worried I was opening real burrito instead of a shirt. In retrospect, it was ridiculous to think even for a second that they were throwing burritos at the fans. But it seemed possible at the time. At least to me.
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Day 77: Nov. 20, 2007
I didn't go back to work last night. So I got an extra-early start today, even by Tuesday standards. It's good to be home.
The guys built the driveway retaining wall today. In the picture, you can see the pieces of the old back steps on the garage side of the wall.
The siding is finally finished! And the vent in the dormer has been replaced. I'm not sure if any of our previous pictures show that it was octagon-shaped. The architect's plans called for a half-moon vent, echoing the attic windows, so now that's what we have.
The garbage company picked up the full trash bin this afternoon. But we didn't get another one just yet. First, the driveway's gravel base will be delivered and graded. We'll spend all winter driving on it to pack it down in preparation for paving in the spring.
I called the Amish furniture guys today and gave them the go-ahead on our vanities and bed. It's pretty frustrating to try to do business without the benefit of anything electronic except the phone. They'll mail us some questions -- I'm assuming to make sure all the details, like dimensions and finish, are correct. Then we'll mail the answers back with a 50 percent down payment. With all that snail mail, maybe they'll actually get started by Christmas!
I'm eagerly awaiting the arrival of our Thanksgiving turducken. He made it from Lafayette, La., to Memphis, Tenn., last night. At 5 this afternoon, he departed Memphis. He's due here tomorrow, so he'd better fly faster tonight.
The guys built the driveway retaining wall today. In the picture, you can see the pieces of the old back steps on the garage side of the wall.
The siding is finally finished! And the vent in the dormer has been replaced. I'm not sure if any of our previous pictures show that it was octagon-shaped. The architect's plans called for a half-moon vent, echoing the attic windows, so now that's what we have.
The garbage company picked up the full trash bin this afternoon. But we didn't get another one just yet. First, the driveway's gravel base will be delivered and graded. We'll spend all winter driving on it to pack it down in preparation for paving in the spring.
I called the Amish furniture guys today and gave them the go-ahead on our vanities and bed. It's pretty frustrating to try to do business without the benefit of anything electronic except the phone. They'll mail us some questions -- I'm assuming to make sure all the details, like dimensions and finish, are correct. Then we'll mail the answers back with a 50 percent down payment. With all that snail mail, maybe they'll actually get started by Christmas!
I'm eagerly awaiting the arrival of our Thanksgiving turducken. He made it from Lafayette, La., to Memphis, Tenn., last night. At 5 this afternoon, he departed Memphis. He's due here tomorrow, so he'd better fly faster tonight.
Monday, November 19, 2007
Day 76: Nov. 19, 2007
Bud, Gary and Jimmy spent the morning breaking up the old concrete back steps with a rented jackhammer. Tomorrow morning, they'll move the pieces to the area in front of the garage, where the ex-steps will become fill for the new driveway. (Less gravel to buy. Hooray!)
The pieces have to be moved to make way for the garbage truck that's scheduled to retrieve our giant (and full!) trash bin tomorrow. Another bin will take its place so that the destruction of the back part of the house can begin soon.
At lunch, Bud and I returned to Lowe's, where the extremely helpful appliance manager got us all fixed up with the correct dryer. We also bought a new vacuum cleaner because ours had a meltdown last night.
There are so many new toys around here right now that I can't decide what to enjoy first. The new super-sucky vacuum made its debut after dinner. Since I made a pass around the house last night with a vacuum we borrowed from Bud's mom's, I was amazed (or maybe just disgusted) at how much the new one picked up.
Our cordless phone stopped letting us make outgoing calls sometime last week, so next I sat on the cleaner-than-ever floor to set up the phone we bought yesterday. We're capable of communicating with the outside world via landline again, and we're now the proud owners of three handsets, which is more than overkill in our current house but will be helpful at the new house.
Jamie's in town for Thanksgiving, so she, Bud and her dogs visited for a few hours this afternoon. I was still at work, where I'm returning now. Bleh.
The pieces have to be moved to make way for the garbage truck that's scheduled to retrieve our giant (and full!) trash bin tomorrow. Another bin will take its place so that the destruction of the back part of the house can begin soon.
At lunch, Bud and I returned to Lowe's, where the extremely helpful appliance manager got us all fixed up with the correct dryer. We also bought a new vacuum cleaner because ours had a meltdown last night.
There are so many new toys around here right now that I can't decide what to enjoy first. The new super-sucky vacuum made its debut after dinner. Since I made a pass around the house last night with a vacuum we borrowed from Bud's mom's, I was amazed (or maybe just disgusted) at how much the new one picked up.
Our cordless phone stopped letting us make outgoing calls sometime last week, so next I sat on the cleaner-than-ever floor to set up the phone we bought yesterday. We're capable of communicating with the outside world via landline again, and we're now the proud owners of three handsets, which is more than overkill in our current house but will be helpful at the new house.
Jamie's in town for Thanksgiving, so she, Bud and her dogs visited for a few hours this afternoon. I was still at work, where I'm returning now. Bleh.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Day 75: Nov. 18, 2007
We bought the washer and dryer this afternoon. But when I visited the Bosch website to find pictures to post here, I discovered that we ordered to wrong dryer. You see, there's the 500 Series and then there's the 500 Plus Series; we ordered the washer in one model and the dryer in the other. :-(
So it's back to Lowe's at lunch tomorrow. So frustrating! I was all proud because, with rebates and discounts, I squeaked in under my original appliance budget -- even with that huge price jump on the refrigerator. I'll bet the upgraded dryer will negate my tiny savings.
At the open house, Bud picked up a new possibility for mounting the television in the great room. We may be able to put it over the fireplace after all. Bud'll decide whether we can work out the details, and we'll need to know what we want to do before the guys start framing the addition -- because the windows are configured asymmetrically right now to allow a spot for the TV on one side of the room.
I guess I'm off to the grocery -- with nothing but the washer and dryer on my mind. Ugh.
So it's back to Lowe's at lunch tomorrow. So frustrating! I was all proud because, with rebates and discounts, I squeaked in under my original appliance budget -- even with that huge price jump on the refrigerator. I'll bet the upgraded dryer will negate my tiny savings.
At the open house, Bud picked up a new possibility for mounting the television in the great room. We may be able to put it over the fireplace after all. Bud'll decide whether we can work out the details, and we'll need to know what we want to do before the guys start framing the addition -- because the windows are configured asymmetrically right now to allow a spot for the TV on one side of the room.
I guess I'm off to the grocery -- with nothing but the washer and dryer on my mind. Ugh.
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Day 74: Nov. 17, 2007
I ordered the range hood last night after I posted. So we still have to buy the washer and dryer, lighting for the bathrooms, and ceiling fans for the great room and screened porch. I think that's all.
I also need to contact the Amish furniture makers to get them started on the vanities and the bed.
After (and during) the Kentucky game, Bud and I worked around the house where we live now. He cleaned the gutters and the winterized the water garden. I took care of laundry and dishes, and I decluttered. If you looked at the inside of our house right now, you might wonder exactly what I did, though! There are a heck of a lot of piles of stuff from the other houses around here these days.
I dropped a pot rack off at Bud's dad's house at halftime and took a look around while I was there. (We've been calling it "the new house," but that seems sort of strange since it's so old. But part of it will be new, so there's that.) The picture is an interior view of the garage. In the upper right of the photo, you can see the heater that was installed earlier this week.
Tomorrow, I'm planning to continue decluttering. We also want to visit at least one open house -- a home that's about the same age as Bud's dad's and was remodeled in the past year.
And we might buy the washer and dryer. Checking things off the to-do list is even more fulfilling than usual these days.
I also need to contact the Amish furniture makers to get them started on the vanities and the bed.
After (and during) the Kentucky game, Bud and I worked around the house where we live now. He cleaned the gutters and the winterized the water garden. I took care of laundry and dishes, and I decluttered. If you looked at the inside of our house right now, you might wonder exactly what I did, though! There are a heck of a lot of piles of stuff from the other houses around here these days.
I dropped a pot rack off at Bud's dad's house at halftime and took a look around while I was there. (We've been calling it "the new house," but that seems sort of strange since it's so old. But part of it will be new, so there's that.) The picture is an interior view of the garage. In the upper right of the photo, you can see the heater that was installed earlier this week.
Tomorrow, I'm planning to continue decluttering. We also want to visit at least one open house -- a home that's about the same age as Bud's dad's and was remodeled in the past year.
And we might buy the washer and dryer. Checking things off the to-do list is even more fulfilling than usual these days.
Friday, November 16, 2007
Day 73: Nov. 16, 2007
Trim, siding and drywall continued today.
We officially hired the CAD cabinet place this morning after I finally remembered to ask the owner, Bryan, whether he can do a matte finish. (He can.) I'll call him Monday to tell him that Gary said the addition should be framed by the first week in December, and after that, we probably won't talk with him again 'til then.
Tonight we stopped by Home Depot and bought our kitchen appliances. I wanted to make sure everything I had chosen was still available. It was, except that we had to buy an updated version of the wall oven. The refrigerator had gone up $700 since August! How ridiculous is that?
Anyway, those appliances will be delivered the first week in January. If we aren't ready for them by then, we hope we can just store them in the dining room. The only thing I still have to order is the range hood, which was significantly more at Home Depot that at the place I found it online.
We officially hired the CAD cabinet place this morning after I finally remembered to ask the owner, Bryan, whether he can do a matte finish. (He can.) I'll call him Monday to tell him that Gary said the addition should be framed by the first week in December, and after that, we probably won't talk with him again 'til then.
Tonight we stopped by Home Depot and bought our kitchen appliances. I wanted to make sure everything I had chosen was still available. It was, except that we had to buy an updated version of the wall oven. The refrigerator had gone up $700 since August! How ridiculous is that?
Anyway, those appliances will be delivered the first week in January. If we aren't ready for them by then, we hope we can just store them in the dining room. The only thing I still have to order is the range hood, which was significantly more at Home Depot that at the place I found it online.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Day 72: Nov. 15, 2007
Gary and Jimmy removed the forms that held the concrete they poured earlier this week.
Yesterday, they had hung plastic over the holes where the garage doors will go someday. Bud found out today that the plastic is to help hold in the warmth from their kerosene heater.
So they moved their saws into the garage today and started working on the trim for the windows and doors. The siding subcontractor also continued his work today.
At home, Bud filled the squirrel box this morning, and we immediately had a couple of takers. They're at their funniest when they fight and chase each other around the tree.
Work was another extra-long day, which is getting old quickly.
Yesterday, they had hung plastic over the holes where the garage doors will go someday. Bud found out today that the plastic is to help hold in the warmth from their kerosene heater.
So they moved their saws into the garage today and started working on the trim for the windows and doors. The siding subcontractor also continued his work today.
At home, Bud filled the squirrel box this morning, and we immediately had a couple of takers. They're at their funniest when they fight and chase each other around the tree.
Work was another extra-long day, which is getting old quickly.
Day 71: Nov. 14, 2007
Another rain day, but there was still some work going on. The HVAC subcontractors installed the heater in the garage. And it looks like the drywall guy is finished, or at least very close.
Bud endured the downpour to assemble a new house for our dog, Kirby. That was sweet.
We e-mailed the CAD cabinet guy, asking if we could make an appointment at his convenience Saturday or Sunday to take a final look at finishes. He got back to us with new drawings within a few hours of my call earlier this week, so I hope he's still that eager.
I hated to ask for a weekend appointment, but I can't get away Friday. And besides, it seems as if we've spent every moment I could spare from work chasing cabinets lately, so it would be great for someone to accommodate us (well, mostly me) for once.
Bud endured the downpour to assemble a new house for our dog, Kirby. That was sweet.
We e-mailed the CAD cabinet guy, asking if we could make an appointment at his convenience Saturday or Sunday to take a final look at finishes. He got back to us with new drawings within a few hours of my call earlier this week, so I hope he's still that eager.
I hated to ask for a weekend appointment, but I can't get away Friday. And besides, it seems as if we've spent every moment I could spare from work chasing cabinets lately, so it would be great for someone to accommodate us (well, mostly me) for once.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Day 70: Nov. 13, 2007
Rain day. Not much going on constructionwise. When Bud and I cruised by at lunch, we saw the drywall subcontractor leaving, but that was probably about the size of it today.
Our detailed estimate from the Amish furniture guys arrived today. Those neatly hand-drawn plans are such a change from the computer designs we've grown to love lately.
I also got an e-mail with a new estimate from the CAD guy. Even with all the changes we've made, he's still about two-thirds the price of the other contender. I guess we all know what that means. And I really think I'm OK with it.
I just hope I don't have to be the one who calls all the other places to tell them we chose someone else. Maybe I could send notes instead.
Our detailed estimate from the Amish furniture guys arrived today. Those neatly hand-drawn plans are such a change from the computer designs we've grown to love lately.
I also got an e-mail with a new estimate from the CAD guy. Even with all the changes we've made, he's still about two-thirds the price of the other contender. I guess we all know what that means. And I really think I'm OK with it.
I just hope I don't have to be the one who calls all the other places to tell them we chose someone else. Maybe I could send notes instead.
Monday, November 12, 2007
Day 69: Nov. 12, 2007
Gary and Jimmy poured concrete into a form in front of the garage doors today, and the drywall guy started applying mud in the garage.
Jesse, the electrician, buried the underground utilities and leveled the yard. Jonas and Allen, the stone manufacturers, delivered the stone facade for the room addition.
It must've been one of those days when lots of activity boils down to few words -- because it sure seemed busy around there.
I got new drawings from the CAD cabinetmaker this morning. We've narrowed it down to him and the really expensive estimate we got Friday. So we've asked him to make several changes and give us a new estimate. That way that we'll be making a fair comparison.
I hate going back to work after dinner on Mondays.
Jesse, the electrician, buried the underground utilities and leveled the yard. Jonas and Allen, the stone manufacturers, delivered the stone facade for the room addition.
It must've been one of those days when lots of activity boils down to few words -- because it sure seemed busy around there.
I got new drawings from the CAD cabinetmaker this morning. We've narrowed it down to him and the really expensive estimate we got Friday. So we've asked him to make several changes and give us a new estimate. That way that we'll be making a fair comparison.
I hate going back to work after dinner on Mondays.
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Day 68: Nov. 11, 2007
Bud actually took Veterans Day off for once. He talked about cleaning cars and mowing the lawn at our current house, but instead, we spent most of the day away from home.
We went out to breakfast and then decided to go for a ride. (In the Jeep. No motorcycling when it's this cool!) Along the way, we stopped to roam around an under-construction house. From there, we were inspired to visit a few open houses, hoping to spark ideas for some kitchen and bath details we have yet to decide.
So we looked and we looked and we looked at some very nice new construction. We gathered ideas until we were so exhausted that we fell asleep almost as soon as we walked back through the door at home.
In the picture, subcontractors are drywalling the garage. They hung most of the sheets Friday.
We went out to breakfast and then decided to go for a ride. (In the Jeep. No motorcycling when it's this cool!) Along the way, we stopped to roam around an under-construction house. From there, we were inspired to visit a few open houses, hoping to spark ideas for some kitchen and bath details we have yet to decide.
So we looked and we looked and we looked at some very nice new construction. We gathered ideas until we were so exhausted that we fell asleep almost as soon as we walked back through the door at home.
In the picture, subcontractors are drywalling the garage. They hung most of the sheets Friday.
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Day 67: Nov. 10, 2007
Bud and I got rid of the remnants of the water maple early this afternoon. I hate to say goodbye to another old tree, but I'm relieved that the lawn looks fine without it. Actually, it's nice to see more of Ann's house.
Linda, my sister, called this morning to invite us to the farm for dinner. So I threw a broccoli salad together in the late afternoon as we watched Kentucky defeat Vandy, and we took off when the game ended.
At the farm, we celebrated the birthdays of Allison, who turns 37 on Sunday, and Ella Mae, who's now 91. Allison is the wife of Linda's stepson, Chris. Ella Mae is the stepgrandmother of Linda's husband, Bill.
The picture is from Friday, when the guys installed the subfloor of the room addition. If we could find a key to the back door, we could walk onto the floor from the existing kitchen. As it is, we can climb a ladder to take in the view -- which is not my preferred method of scaling great heights.
Linda, my sister, called this morning to invite us to the farm for dinner. So I threw a broccoli salad together in the late afternoon as we watched Kentucky defeat Vandy, and we took off when the game ended.
At the farm, we celebrated the birthdays of Allison, who turns 37 on Sunday, and Ella Mae, who's now 91. Allison is the wife of Linda's stepson, Chris. Ella Mae is the stepgrandmother of Linda's husband, Bill.
The picture is from Friday, when the guys installed the subfloor of the room addition. If we could find a key to the back door, we could walk onto the floor from the existing kitchen. As it is, we can climb a ladder to take in the view -- which is not my preferred method of scaling great heights.
Day 66: Nov. 9, 2007
At work, we had a lunchtime shower at a local bed and breakfast for my friend Laura, who's having a baby next month. (I still can't believe it's so close now!)
We enjoyed ourselves so much that it felt as if we had just gotten there when it was time to leave. I wish all showers had such a great mix of fun people.
Bud and I received our final cabinet estimate yesterday -- from the place that we visited several weeks ago after the first dealer of the same line never got back to us.
I've loved these cabinets from the first time I saw them. And this rep's design skills? 'Wow!' doesn't cover it. Far beyond anything else we've seen. Although her presentation included CAD drawings, I can't show you because she's not permitted to release them unless we choose her company.
We're fairly certain this was the priciest bid we've gotten so far, but we'll have to take a closer look this weekend. Not all of the bids include countertop estimates. Some don't include hardware. At least a couple were completed before we decided we wanted a few glass panels.
Of course, the design work we got with this bid is worth a lot. With her plan, I'm comfortable that the kitchen will look fabulous. With the others, I almost feel that we're throwing together some ideas we like and hoping for the best.
Bud and I also stopped at the hospital briefly to visit Bob, who's the father of Jamie's friend Allyson. Bob underwent a triple heart bypass earlier this week, after having had a heart attack last weekend. He looked great (except for that big scar on his chest) and seems to be on his way to a smooth recovery.
We enjoyed ourselves so much that it felt as if we had just gotten there when it was time to leave. I wish all showers had such a great mix of fun people.
Bud and I received our final cabinet estimate yesterday -- from the place that we visited several weeks ago after the first dealer of the same line never got back to us.
I've loved these cabinets from the first time I saw them. And this rep's design skills? 'Wow!' doesn't cover it. Far beyond anything else we've seen. Although her presentation included CAD drawings, I can't show you because she's not permitted to release them unless we choose her company.
We're fairly certain this was the priciest bid we've gotten so far, but we'll have to take a closer look this weekend. Not all of the bids include countertop estimates. Some don't include hardware. At least a couple were completed before we decided we wanted a few glass panels.
Of course, the design work we got with this bid is worth a lot. With her plan, I'm comfortable that the kitchen will look fabulous. With the others, I almost feel that we're throwing together some ideas we like and hoping for the best.
Bud and I also stopped at the hospital briefly to visit Bob, who's the father of Jamie's friend Allyson. Bob underwent a triple heart bypass earlier this week, after having had a heart attack last weekend. He looked great (except for that big scar on his chest) and seems to be on his way to a smooth recovery.
Friday, November 9, 2007
Day 65: Nov. 8, 2007
Bud conquered the water maple today. All that's left is some minor cleanup of leaves and small broken limbs.
At the other house, it was more of what's been going on all week. The siding subcontractors continued to work on the garage. Gary and Jimmy built some sort of frame (I don't know what it's actually called) around the outside edge of the floor joists.
We spent a good part of the day trying to fax a diagram of the foundation wall to the Amish stone makers. Their fax machine never answered, so Bud's driving the dimensions to them tomorrow morning.
The Amish furniture makers called this afternoon with an estimate. We haven't had time to compare their number with the others yet; that's the only project on deck for the weekend. They don't fax or e-mail, so we'll get a detailed bid by postal mail next week.
Carl, the HVAC contractor, turned the heat back on in the house, so we won't have worry about frozen pipes now that temperatures are starting cool off quite a bit at night. Bud said Carl has most of the upstairs system installed.
At the other house, it was more of what's been going on all week. The siding subcontractors continued to work on the garage. Gary and Jimmy built some sort of frame (I don't know what it's actually called) around the outside edge of the floor joists.
We spent a good part of the day trying to fax a diagram of the foundation wall to the Amish stone makers. Their fax machine never answered, so Bud's driving the dimensions to them tomorrow morning.
The Amish furniture makers called this afternoon with an estimate. We haven't had time to compare their number with the others yet; that's the only project on deck for the weekend. They don't fax or e-mail, so we'll get a detailed bid by postal mail next week.
Carl, the HVAC contractor, turned the heat back on in the house, so we won't have worry about frozen pipes now that temperatures are starting cool off quite a bit at night. Bud said Carl has most of the upstairs system installed.
Thursday, November 8, 2007
Day 64: Nov. 7, 2007
Well, the Cats pretty much blew. Fortunately, the early part of our day went much better.
The first block place Jimmy and Gary sent us to visit today didn't have a facade that was light enough to match our foundation. But instead of trying to sell us something we couldn't use, they sent us to an Amish guy nearby.
He had just what we wanted! And the thing that probably makes me happiest is now we get to send back the wrong-color stone and we don't have to buy anything else from the salesman who supplied it.
At the house, Gary and Jimmy installed all the joists for the great room floor(!), and the siding guys continued to work on the garage.
Bud spent his morning wrestling the fallen tree, with a brief stop by the office to play handyman on the furnace.
The first block place Jimmy and Gary sent us to visit today didn't have a facade that was light enough to match our foundation. But instead of trying to sell us something we couldn't use, they sent us to an Amish guy nearby.
He had just what we wanted! And the thing that probably makes me happiest is now we get to send back the wrong-color stone and we don't have to buy anything else from the salesman who supplied it.
At the house, Gary and Jimmy installed all the joists for the great room floor(!), and the siding guys continued to work on the garage.
Bud spent his morning wrestling the fallen tree, with a brief stop by the office to play handyman on the furnace.
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
Day 63: Nov. 6, 2007
The siding subcontractors continued their work on the garage today. Meanwhile, Gary and Jimmy began removing siding from the back of the house. (Yay! Finally some work that's not on the garage!)
Bud's job for most of the day involved a chainsaw and that fallen tree at his mom's. His progress was incredible, but he's really tired. He wasn't making a lot sense just now when I asked him to describe what happened at the house today, and the second I finished my questions, he started snoring!
Bud and our neighbor Mark went to the game tonight. Because it was Election Day, I had to work even later than usual for a Tuesday, so I missed the year's first regular-season game. I'm just a little whiny about it.
Tomorrow, we're making the rounds to check out some other facades for the foundation.
Oh, Bud saw our deer again this afternoon! (No, not the one we hit.) One of the times we stopped by the house last week after dark, we saw two deer playing in the back yard. We must've watched them running and kicking for 20 minutes. It was hilarious! I took a 30-second phone video, but I know the quality will be much less than great because it was completely dark except for our headlights -- so I haven't even bothered to watch it.
Bud's job for most of the day involved a chainsaw and that fallen tree at his mom's. His progress was incredible, but he's really tired. He wasn't making a lot sense just now when I asked him to describe what happened at the house today, and the second I finished my questions, he started snoring!
Bud and our neighbor Mark went to the game tonight. Because it was Election Day, I had to work even later than usual for a Tuesday, so I missed the year's first regular-season game. I'm just a little whiny about it.
Tomorrow, we're making the rounds to check out some other facades for the foundation.
Oh, Bud saw our deer again this afternoon! (No, not the one we hit.) One of the times we stopped by the house last week after dark, we saw two deer playing in the back yard. We must've watched them running and kicking for 20 minutes. It was hilarious! I took a 30-second phone video, but I know the quality will be much less than great because it was completely dark except for our headlights -- so I haven't even bothered to watch it.
Monday, November 5, 2007
Day 62: Nov. 5, 2007
The garage is fully insulated, and the siding subcontractors started doing their thing today. They finished the back soffit first.
We're still struggling with correcting the wrong-color stone facade, so the block layers probably won't be back for a while.
The big news, though, was at Bud's mom's house. When I came home for dinner, Bud and I took off for his dad's so I could get a look at today's progress. But as we passed his mom's, we found a new project.
One of the huge water maples in her front yard was lying on the ground, blown over by the wind that had accompanied a strong but brief rainstorm.
At first glance, we seem to have been pretty lucky. As it fell, the tree scraped off some paint and ripped away an awning. I had to lighten this photo quite a bit because it was nearly dark when we found the wreckage, so we're not sure we saw everything. We'll take a closer look in the morning.
Back to work for me now, and Bud's got all kinds of paperwork projects going on here.
We're still struggling with correcting the wrong-color stone facade, so the block layers probably won't be back for a while.
The big news, though, was at Bud's mom's house. When I came home for dinner, Bud and I took off for his dad's so I could get a look at today's progress. But as we passed his mom's, we found a new project.
One of the huge water maples in her front yard was lying on the ground, blown over by the wind that had accompanied a strong but brief rainstorm.
At first glance, we seem to have been pretty lucky. As it fell, the tree scraped off some paint and ripped away an awning. I had to lighten this photo quite a bit because it was nearly dark when we found the wreckage, so we're not sure we saw everything. We'll take a closer look in the morning.
Back to work for me now, and Bud's got all kinds of paperwork projects going on here.
Sunday, November 4, 2007
Days 60-61: Nov. 3-4, 2007
We got home from the Kentucky game late Saturday night. We had arrived at the game later than usual, which meant we got a crappy parking place. (We had a delicious early dinner at Malone's, though, and I did some Christmas card shopping at Hallmark.) So we decided to spend our time watching the post-game live, instead of sitting in traffic listening to it.
It was the first time we'd seen and heard new coach Billy Gillispie so close. That was kind of cool. And the parking lot was bare when we left, so that was pretty cool too.
Also cool was the lack of deer in the road on the way home! We had been pondering whether wildlife might have some strange attraction to the Jeep after a crow drifted down from a telephone pole and collided with the front passenger door Friday morning while we were driving. Ironically, its beak or claws did more damage than the deer we nudged earlier in the week. Bud thinks the scratches will buff out.
On Friday, I missed a call from the other cabinet place we visited a few weeks ago. The rep wants to meet next week to show us her plans. She said, "It's looking really good. I can't wait for you to see it." While I understand that's probably an early sales pitch, I'm excited because it makes me wonder if they use CAD too.
It was the first time we'd seen and heard new coach Billy Gillispie so close. That was kind of cool. And the parking lot was bare when we left, so that was pretty cool too.
Also cool was the lack of deer in the road on the way home! We had been pondering whether wildlife might have some strange attraction to the Jeep after a crow drifted down from a telephone pole and collided with the front passenger door Friday morning while we were driving. Ironically, its beak or claws did more damage than the deer we nudged earlier in the week. Bud thinks the scratches will buff out.
On Friday, I missed a call from the other cabinet place we visited a few weeks ago. The rep wants to meet next week to show us her plans. She said, "It's looking really good. I can't wait for you to see it." While I understand that's probably an early sales pitch, I'm excited because it makes me wonder if they use CAD too.
Friday, November 2, 2007
Day 59: Nov. 2, 2007
No idea what happened at the house today. We left town this morning before they got started, and we didn't get back 'til after dark.
Boy, did we make kitchen progress, though! Our first appointment was at the cabinet place that offers CAD. Although many of the colors in this first draft aren't right, we were excited to see how our kitchen might come together.
We made a couple of changes right away. First, we switched the panels in the small uppermost doors to seeded glass. Then we shortened the two middle cabinets over the desk (at the far left of the drawing). They'll still extend to the ceiling, but they'll be shorter at the bottom by a few inches.
We'll examine the draft more closely this weekend. For one thing, I forgot again to ask if inset doors are a possibility here. And maybe we'd rather have additional counter space instead of a desk. Anyway, we're leaning pretty hard toward this cabinetmaker right now.
But we're expecting two more bids, including one from the Amish place we visited this afternoon. We spent a couple of hours there making all the usual cabinet choices.
The thing that excites me the most about the Amish guys is that they build other furniture too. So we took them photos of the vanity we're planning to buy and a bed we really like. They'll give us estimates on those also.
Boy, did we make kitchen progress, though! Our first appointment was at the cabinet place that offers CAD. Although many of the colors in this first draft aren't right, we were excited to see how our kitchen might come together.
We made a couple of changes right away. First, we switched the panels in the small uppermost doors to seeded glass. Then we shortened the two middle cabinets over the desk (at the far left of the drawing). They'll still extend to the ceiling, but they'll be shorter at the bottom by a few inches.
We'll examine the draft more closely this weekend. For one thing, I forgot again to ask if inset doors are a possibility here. And maybe we'd rather have additional counter space instead of a desk. Anyway, we're leaning pretty hard toward this cabinetmaker right now.
But we're expecting two more bids, including one from the Amish place we visited this afternoon. We spent a couple of hours there making all the usual cabinet choices.
The thing that excites me the most about the Amish guys is that they build other furniture too. So we took them photos of the vanity we're planning to buy and a bed we really like. They'll give us estimates on those also.
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Day 58: Nov. 1, 2007
The roofers arrived early this morning and were still there when Bud and I stopped by after dinner. The sunlight was getting pretty scarce, but I think we got an entire roof today.
I chose a keyless lock for the door to the garage this afternoon. I think it makes sense not to have to dig for a garage key every time we leave the house.
The stone facade for the addition's foundation arrived today. It's grayer than I remembered (which translates to grayer than the existing foundation), so I'm going to check on that tomorrow.
Gary and Jimmy installed the door, and they finished the wrap.
I think Bud said the plumbing and electrical work have to be inspected before the guys can start on insulation.
I chose a keyless lock for the door to the garage this afternoon. I think it makes sense not to have to dig for a garage key every time we leave the house.
The stone facade for the addition's foundation arrived today. It's grayer than I remembered (which translates to grayer than the existing foundation), so I'm going to check on that tomorrow.
Gary and Jimmy installed the door, and they finished the wrap.
I think Bud said the plumbing and electrical work have to be inspected before the guys can start on insulation.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Day 57: Oct. 31, 2007
For Halloween, our garage got a coat of house wrap and some windows. Before that, Gary and Jimmy replaced the chipboard on the back of the garage because it had warped from all the rain we got while Bud and I were on our trip last week.
Roofing is supposed to start tomorrow.
We had a great time tonight at Kentucky's first basketball game of the season -- a 99-64 win over Pikeville College.
On the way home, we clipped a deer. Fortunately for us (and probably for her too), there doesn't seem to be any damage to the Jeep -- not even a tiny deer hair on the edge of the bumper.
Because of that, Bud swears he thinks we probably just barely grazed her rear. I want to believe him because I love deer. I don't want to hurt them!
Roofing is supposed to start tomorrow.
We had a great time tonight at Kentucky's first basketball game of the season -- a 99-64 win over Pikeville College.
On the way home, we clipped a deer. Fortunately for us (and probably for her too), there doesn't seem to be any damage to the Jeep -- not even a tiny deer hair on the edge of the bumper.
Because of that, Bud swears he thinks we probably just barely grazed her rear. I want to believe him because I love deer. I don't want to hurt them!
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Day 56: Oct. 30, 2007
Bud still was busy with other things today, so he didn't spend much time at the construction site. Unfortunately, it was one of those days when it's hard to tell exactly what went on without having been there.
The dormer's enclosed now. And Gary and Jimmy built the final eave return and put the finishing touches on all of them.
Looks like it was delivery day. Windows and a door! Shingles too.
The dormer's enclosed now. And Gary and Jimmy built the final eave return and put the finishing touches on all of them.
Looks like it was delivery day. Windows and a door! Shingles too.
Day 55: Oct. 29, 2007
Gary and Jimmy finished sheathing the sides of the garage, so it's completely enclosed except for the doors and windows and the front of the dormer. They also built the returns on the corners of the eaves.
And they put roofing paper on the back of the roof, which means it's now ready for shingles. Bud chose the color this afternoon, and the roofers are scheduled for later this week.
Bud continued to work on his mom's estate. He was appointed executor today. He and Kathy, who cleans both his mom's and dad's houses, made some progress at his mom's this afternoon.
And they put roofing paper on the back of the roof, which means it's now ready for shingles. Bud chose the color this afternoon, and the roofers are scheduled for later this week.
Bud continued to work on his mom's estate. He was appointed executor today. He and Kathy, who cleans both his mom's and dad's houses, made some progress at his mom's this afternoon.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Days 53-54: Oct. 27-28, 2007
Early in the construction process, when deliveries of lumber and block started arriving at the house, Gary and Jimmy made a sign for our front yard.
"Attractive" didn't exactly describe the creation of plywood and fluorescent orange paint, but it put the house number out there where delivery drivers couldn't miss it.
This weekend, someone apparently decided they'd had enough of our custom-built sign. We were glad nothing else around the house seemed to be disturbed.
We hung around our current house for most of the weekend. Cleaned cars. Cleared out some of the garden to get it ready for winter. Watched drag racing and football. Stuff like that. I bought a couple of new Kentucky shirts so I'd be prepared for the first game of basketball season next week.
After at least four calls, we're still trying to get Bud's mom's daily newspaper stopped. Luckily, she was a pay-by-the-month subscriber, so the problem should take care of itself by Thursday.
"Attractive" didn't exactly describe the creation of plywood and fluorescent orange paint, but it put the house number out there where delivery drivers couldn't miss it.
This weekend, someone apparently decided they'd had enough of our custom-built sign. We were glad nothing else around the house seemed to be disturbed.
We hung around our current house for most of the weekend. Cleaned cars. Cleared out some of the garden to get it ready for winter. Watched drag racing and football. Stuff like that. I bought a couple of new Kentucky shirts so I'd be prepared for the first game of basketball season next week.
After at least four calls, we're still trying to get Bud's mom's daily newspaper stopped. Luckily, she was a pay-by-the-month subscriber, so the problem should take care of itself by Thursday.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Day 52: Oct. 26, 2007
The chipboard's on the back half of the garage roof.
We're making some progress on Project Cabinet too. Brian, the guy from the place that uses CAD, called Bud yesterday to let him know our drawings are ready. I called Brian back today and set up an appointment for next week to take a look.
Also yesterday, the woman from the other cabinet place we visited a couple of weeks ago called me. She asked if we'd consider moving the location of the refrigerator. Although I'm not convinced it's a good idea, I agreed. If nothing else, it'll be interesting to see a different configuration.
I also called the Amish guy back today to reschedule the appointment we canceled last week. Now we've just got to get it together and take a look around Bud's mom's to see if there's any furniture we'd like to put in the kitchen. We know it would please her a ton for us to use her stuff.
We're making some progress on Project Cabinet too. Brian, the guy from the place that uses CAD, called Bud yesterday to let him know our drawings are ready. I called Brian back today and set up an appointment for next week to take a look.
Also yesterday, the woman from the other cabinet place we visited a couple of weeks ago called me. She asked if we'd consider moving the location of the refrigerator. Although I'm not convinced it's a good idea, I agreed. If nothing else, it'll be interesting to see a different configuration.
I also called the Amish guy back today to reschedule the appointment we canceled last week. Now we've just got to get it together and take a look around Bud's mom's to see if there's any furniture we'd like to put in the kitchen. We know it would please her a ton for us to use her stuff.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Day 51: Oct. 25, 2007
Back to work for me. And apparently for Gary and Jimmy too.
The garage has half a roof now, including roofing paper. It's not easy to tell from the photo, but there's no roof whatsoever on the back yet. I'm sure the guys have done other things too, but they're hard to pick out when Bud's not there to witness (and aid in) the progress.
Bud got started on his mom's estate today. It seems like just the other day that he finished with his dad's.
The garage has half a roof now, including roofing paper. It's not easy to tell from the photo, but there's no roof whatsoever on the back yet. I'm sure the guys have done other things too, but they're hard to pick out when Bud's not there to witness (and aid in) the progress.
Bud got started on his mom's estate today. It seems like just the other day that he finished with his dad's.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Day 50: Oct. 24, 2007
We drove until just before midnight Tuesday and, in an unusual move for us, decided to stop with about three or four hours to go. So we got home at about noon today, barely more than 48 hours after we set out.
Our new plan of leaving the final few hours of our trip until the last morning seemed to work well. Usually we arrive home in the wee hours, exhausted and ready for bed. This time, we were productive. I brought in and unpacked our things while Bud unloaded the motorcycles and put away the trailer.
We took care of a few errands around town (including checking out the building site, where the garage now features a partial roof), ate lunch and then took a several-hour nap. When we awoke, our mail had appeared magically, delivered by our wonderful neighbors, Mark and Debbie, who managed both our mail and our trash cans while we were gone.
After dinner, we relaxed for a while. And now Bud's gone to bed and I'm yawning.
Our new plan of leaving the final few hours of our trip until the last morning seemed to work well. Usually we arrive home in the wee hours, exhausted and ready for bed. This time, we were productive. I brought in and unpacked our things while Bud unloaded the motorcycles and put away the trailer.
We took care of a few errands around town (including checking out the building site, where the garage now features a partial roof), ate lunch and then took a several-hour nap. When we awoke, our mail had appeared magically, delivered by our wonderful neighbors, Mark and Debbie, who managed both our mail and our trash cans while we were gone.
After dinner, we relaxed for a while. And now Bud's gone to bed and I'm yawning.
Day 49: Oct. 23, 2007
After breakfast at the hotel, we headed to the Harley Vehicle and Powertrain Operations plant -- the birthplace of my motorcycle and many of the parts on Bud's. We had thought we'd ride there, but wake-up temperatures in the 30s cooled my interest in that plan.
We genuinely enjoyed the facility tour. It was interesting to see the stages of production. But I wondered if the employees felt a little like zoo animals as we tromped through their work areas and stared at them.
Following a visit to the gift shop, we unloaded both bikes for photos in front of the plant. From there, we loaded back up and drove across the river into Kansas to snap a couple of pictures. While we were stopped, we left the Jeep and trailer on the side of the road and zipped back across the river on Bud's bike to take photos with the Missouri sign.
Then we gassed up the Jeep, fed ourselves at Burger King and started up Interstate 29 toward the top of Missouri. We exited a few miles before Iowa and headed off to the left for a picture in Nebraska. Then it was back to the interstate and into Iowa.
And then we turned around and started toward home.
We genuinely enjoyed the facility tour. It was interesting to see the stages of production. But I wondered if the employees felt a little like zoo animals as we tromped through their work areas and stared at them.
Following a visit to the gift shop, we unloaded both bikes for photos in front of the plant. From there, we loaded back up and drove across the river into Kansas to snap a couple of pictures. While we were stopped, we left the Jeep and trailer on the side of the road and zipped back across the river on Bud's bike to take photos with the Missouri sign.
Then we gassed up the Jeep, fed ourselves at Burger King and started up Interstate 29 toward the top of Missouri. We exited a few miles before Iowa and headed off to the left for a picture in Nebraska. Then it was back to the interstate and into Iowa.
And then we turned around and started toward home.
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