Discoveries in the Dining Room & Sgt. Peppers'

OSHA Poster Girl

Entry way clear of debris

Found a flue in the Dining Room

For the week ending October 7, 2006

1. In clearing the Dining Room walls back down to the bare wood, we found a flue that was used for a wood stove. There was a colorful paper border with a Montgomery Ward logo around the opening in the wall. We have begun looking for a nice wood stove to put in the spot where the old one used to be. Also in the Dining Room, we discovered that there was an 8 ft. window in what was originally the back wall of the house. When the 2 rooms were added onto the back, the window was boarded up.

2. The Entry is finally clear of debris. As promised in last week's blog, the picture in the upper left shows a view of the Entry from the Parlor. It will look better painted - promise.

3. "I'm fixing a hole where the rain gets in..." Can you name that tune, the year, and the artist? Even if you can't, it describes a major accomplishment this week. The roof is patched and hopefully ready for the real roofers to come in and do their thing. The Lord continues to bless me with safety and a healthy respect for working aloft.

4. I am pleased to announce that the foundation repairs and house leveling have been completed. The west wall was raised nearly 3". That's pretty incredible. It is amazing how much better the doors open in a level house.

5. Visitors this week were mostly contractors. Three of them came by to look at the columns and balcony. I started off all the conversations with some version of "Yes, I have lost my mind. Now let's talk about how we can get the columns plumbed and the balcony supported better." Don't be surprised if you subsequently hear wailing because this is likely to be muy costoso.

NEXT STEPS -

1. Schedule the roofing work to be done.

2. Find someone who will take on the challenge of the columns and balcony.

3. Make a wiring diagram of electrical, communications, door bells, speakers, etc. and have additional discussions with electricians.

4. Pray for a plumber.

5. Ask my local OSHA babe (see centerfold above) for a date.