Friday February 10, 2012

Friday Feb 10/12 update

I was up early again to do a few minor touches to the terrace.  Because the tiles on the east wall slope inwards I squeezed in a length or water pipe between them and the aluminum support above.  This will help deflect any water from entering into the terrace.  We know we can’t stop it all because of the screens but it should help.

Then I started to install Bella’s new shower configuration.  I caught myself starting to drill in an area where I was sure to hit a water pipe.  The old carpenter’s adage applies, measure twice, cut once.  In my case I need to measure 3 times and stop to think it over several times…

While I was in the midst of this the doorbell and my cel phone rang at the same time.  Michael was calling me to let me know Etapa was at my door.  I missed his first call because I was on the second floor, the phone was on the third, and the Etapa people were at the front door.

These guys came up stairs (2 guys, plus a driver who just sits in the truck) and checked my computer connection briefly (Xavier had already confirmed it was OK) then went outside to check the line to the pole.  Then the two guys said they had to check something else around the corner while the driver just moved the truck to get out of the blazing sun.   When they didn’t return after a half hour I went back to installing Bella’s shower, then Bella had a shower.   I cleaned up my tools and put everything away, then I had a shower, and they still had not returned.   Periodic checks of the computer did not bring up any browsers either.  The truck has stayed out front with the driver the entire time.

Bella bought a cookie sheet but it had this huge label stuck to it.  Even after soaking all night there was a load of residue on it so she used nail polish remover to get it off.  Now the house just reeks and it is giving me a headache, even on the third floor.   We opened all windows to get rid of the stink.

Bella is having people over to play bridge at 1pm so the house is presentable. 

Finally at 12:30 we have internet running.  I also have the wireless router working to supply Bella’s laptop.  I slipped out to get a patchcord so I will be able to Skype again.  Coral only had male to male extensions for $0.49.  The stereo store had the right male and female ends but it was $3.  I tried the Skype with Frank and it started off good but deteriorated quickly.  We seem to have better connections without any video, especially from our end.  Also spoke to Fern, Yvette & Laurent.  I am so happy to be connected to the world again.

Bella’s bridge game(s) seem to be going nicely.  I don't have the energy to get out any more today.

Tomorrow I am going to look forward to having some time to do normal things again without being housebound.  The last month has been exceedingly taxing and I am so glad almost everything is completed.

That was today’s excitement.    Hugs to all.