OSHA Babe pleads case for 3-legged cat

Can I come home with you?
The deck before and after

Fireplace before and after

FOR THE WEEK ENDING DECEMBER 17, 2006

HIGHLIGHTS

1. The deck is finally finished. You will notice from the "Before" and "After" pictures that we have an unobstructed view from the back window of the house, a small deck outside of both doors on the back of the house, and a hot water heater closet in the enclosed area under the stairs. I have primed the area and it already looks so much better than the unpainted areas nearby.

2. Jimmy, the electrician, continues to work methodically as he goes down the list. I do need to clear one of the water heaters from its spot in the kitchen so Jimmy can install an outlet for the refrigerator along with outlets for the microwave and electric starter for the gas stove. Hopefully, that will wrap up this week.

3. CAT UPDATE -- How can you resist Little Leo's face in the picture above? Leo's injury to one of his hind legs was severe and resulted in an amputation. Our neighbor, Mary Alice, has teamed with her sister, Meggan, to provide post op cat convalescence. Reports are good that he is a good patient, is using a litter box, looks marvelous in his little cone/collar that keeps him from licking his stitches. Check out Meggan's comment on last week's block for her assessment. OSHA Babe (yes, the one who is allergic to cats) and her tender heart are working along with Meggan and Mary Alice to find a good home for Little Leo. Join the cause.

4. After 3+ weeks of diligent work (OSHA approved, of course), the fireplace mantel has been primed. The plan is to sand lightly, paint, sand lightly, coat, sand lightly, and coat again. Doesn't it look immensely better than where we started?

5. Sheetrocking in the upstairs rooms began last Monday. The contractor is a young man who is trying to mature and build a business. That provides some interesting challenges for both him and me. Hopefully, patience and his continued willingness to listen will pay off.

6. VISITORS - We got shut out on visitors this week.

NEXT STEPS

1. We need to get the kitchen ready for cabinets, applicances, electrical, gas lines, floors, and painting. Hopefully, we'll get the water heaters moved this week and make progress on the other items. OSHA Babe continues to insist on the wearing of masks while sanding. There is always plenty of dust.

2. Sheetrock work should continue. Stay tuned on this one.

3. Hopefully, I will get the kitchen cleared so Jimmy can finish the electrical work in there.

4. Have a MERRY CHRISTMAS with family and friends. MAY GOD BLESS YOU IN 2007 with contentment and prosperity.