Looking on the bright side

There is a definite advantage to having a dryer catch fire. It has moved the installation of the solar powered dryer to the top of the priority list.

Perfect Day

So far, today has been a perfect day. We biked to church, were invited to some dear friends for lunch and took a walk to our favourite Gelati place which just happens to be a block away from our friends' home.

A bike ride home and now, a glass of wine on the deck, looking at the new patio doors that were so expertly installed on Friday.

These moments of peace are a treasure during this time in our lives.

Renovations

Welcome to our home!Renovations.

That's all I can think about. I've posted 10 Renovation photo albums on Facebook so if you're interested in all the dusty details, check that out. If you are not yet my friend, please ask and I will probably be happy to be your friend.

Most of the time I think I'm crazy for doing this (renovations that is, not facebook although I think facebook can be crazy too). I have moved from a gorgeous 3500 square foot mansion to a less than 800 square foot basement apartment. This is only temporary but sometimes, it's hard to stay positive and think about what is to come.

However, what is to come is a beautifully laid out space, with gorgeous cabinets, some lovely architectural details and we hope, the outstanding tin ceilings that are part of the charm of this old house. Because our home will be shared with my sister and her family, the building permit gods have decided that we need sound and fire barriers. While I understand the theory behind all of that, it adds more work and the possibility of having to remove the beautiful tin ceilings. Removal of the ceilings can be a challenge-some say it's impossible so we are looking for alternatives. Can't we just ask our housemates to promise to be a little quiet? And can't we all promise not to play with fire?

I am happy that the worst of the dust is finished. Now, it is mostly new construction that will be happening and I'd rather breath in that kind of dust than 100 year old plaster dust.

And, just between you and me, I do enjoy having the workers around. They are fun and add some spice to my life.

Renovations

I've been so preoccupied with the renovations, that I haven't had much to post about. My dad and mom are here now, so that dad can help out with some of the work. He is an electrician by trade and having him here brings back memories of the constant renovations that I grew up with. I enjoyed it much more when I was 12.

There are blood, sweat and tears going into this reno.

If you look closely, you will see a blood spot in the middle of the door.