Lazy Summer

Lately we've been...not slacking exactly, but definitely relaxing the pace of work on the house. Two weekends ago, Mike and Jack were forced one afternoon to discontinue work on the shed roof due to it being so hot that the roofing tar was melting! At the same time, I was indoors working on replacing the electrical outlets. After one shocking (get it?) experience, I turned off the electricity for safety's sake, and was thereafter working sans-A/C. Mike's mom and dad came over and installed the awesome custom over-the-stove cupboard that they built and stained to match the rest of the wood in the kitchen. This piece of cabinetry offers not only beauty, but dual functionality: it gives the range hood something to attach to, and handily stores both Tupperware and Ramen Noodles.

Last week we had a great visit with my sister Sara and brother-in-law Brad, who have been remodeling their home from top to bottom for a few years now. I think Mike was inspired by their basement bar area, and he may have filed away some ideas for his own future clubhouse/gameroom. It's been mentioned before, but bears repeating: one of the most rewarding results of working on a house is developing the ability to appreciate craftsmanship in other people's spaces.

Yesterday I was struck down by a case of the summer sniffles. I tried to stay in bed, but soon tired of telenovelas and Tylenol Cold, so in the afternoon I headed over to finish grouting the tub. Although the heat was punishing, I pushed onward (buoyed by a grape-tangerine Sno-Ball halfway through) and finished that tedious chore. I wisely decided against working on any electrical projects while alone, and instead had another Sno-Ball. Just kidding. I had two more Sno-Balls. Seriously, it was very hot.

I don't want to start listing all that is left to do on the rental, because I'm afraid it will be a longer list that I'd like. But we are really, really close.