March 25 – “Finished … or not”

Back at it.  All day this time.  We are down to the wire.  I reinstalled the two regular electrical outlets.  We still have to cap off and install the new electrical box for the 220 power source originally installed to power the hot tub.  Sigh.  I could sure use a good thirty minute hot tub session this morning. 

I worked on painting white trim in the back yard.  Strips around the windows and door as well as the ultimate pain creator – eaves.  Leaning back and painting over my head.  Oh, boy.  I can still feel it right now just thinking about it.  I did get much of it finished, though.  The entire back wall and the half of one side that extends to the gate.  Chris worked on the other side, painting the blue/gray walls up as high as she could reach.  That and the accompanying eaves will be one the docket for … not sure when.  We have to go to Hitchcock today.  Kel’s boys (except for Ezra) are all involved in opening day ceremonies for the Little League season.  Josiah and Micah even have games today.

Back to the day yesterday … Chris was pretty determined and resourceful besides the painting she did.  She took down screens and washed two of the windows.  She also washed the two glass doors.  And all that was after she snuck off for a little while to visit with the H&R Block specialist who has been doing the taxes on her Mom’s last remaining account.  Hopefully this is the last time he will be needed on that front.  Oh, and speaking of taxes, our packet from our preparer came yesterday.  We owe.  Lots.

Together we returned two of the trellises that surround the chimney structure.  We have to wait on the third one.  Chris is experimenting with ways to keep things from growing inside the penned off area.  She had already put down a tar paper base and some old pavers we had, but she decided it just looked tacky, so they will be coming out.  Our next idea is to get a bag of those white rocks from Home Depot or WalMart and pour them in there.  I think that will look a lot better.  Once the rocks are down we can tie off the third trellis and be pretty much done with the back yard.  I have a sneaking suspicion that when we get back from the ball games, there will be some more back yard final touches in my future.  The baptism party is tomorrow.  Bring it on, finished or not …

2 Timothy 2:11-12 says, “Here is a trustworthy saying: If we died with him, we will also live with him; if we endure, we will also reign with him.”

Father, be with all the youngsters involved in the parade and games today.  Help them to have fun.  Amen.