I want to write more, but between Nexcess telling me I’m out of resources and they will make me pay, pay, pay (all from two links by Instapundit) and some housework being done, writing may be a bit sparse. On the former, feel free to hit the tip jar as someone has pointed me in an interesting direction for hosting, and given who they work with… Seriously, as soon as I have the money I’m outa here. Literally and figuratively.
The housework is something else. Long story short, a couple of years ago my landlord bought a duplex in a historical area from a relative, without getting an inspection. My thoughts on that and some of the issues that have cropped up are why you ALWAYS get an inspection. While not on the level of some of the other $$$ issues, the windows were all original to the house, which was built either in the late 1930s or 40s.
The upstairs windows on our side were replaced last year. The basement windows have been interesting. I’m sure up until the 1960s they could be opened. By the time he bought the house, they had not been capable of being opened (as in rusted shut) for decades. Given that the windows were one of my ways out in case of fire, I hid a sledge hammer near one of them and was prepared to take it out at need. Before the lightning strike and all with it, bust out, push my armor duffle through to take out any remaining glass or other, then go out. May be getting back to the point I can lift and shove the duffle through at need.
After some discussion, we now have new windows in my bedroom (installed yesterday) and the bathroom (installed a week or so ago). Attractive glass block inserts with a central sealable vent for airflow (something long desired for my room). Yes, in an emergency my plan is still to take them out at need, even though it may take a bit more effort. Meantime, no more drafts, water, and other delights coming in through the windows. Suspect many things will be improved as a result.
Only problem is, yesterday was my room, where I work. I tried working upstairs, but for a number of reasons that did not work out well. I’ve also now got to spend several hours cleaning as there is concrete/masonry dust everywhere in my room. Thick layer of such. Really hoping no asbestos or lead in the dust.
Today, the last window on this side is getting replaced. Not far outside the door to my room. Removal involves reciprocating saws, grinders, and more. Not as worried about the dust per se, but it is going to be interesting. Thinking I may go run some errands, and perhaps take my time on them. Came across a Peruvian chicken recipe that sounds wonderful, may see about finding some of the ingredients for it, since only one is truly exotic. Or at least pricing the ingredients.
Meantime, prepare. Stock up as it will be needed no matter what. If you can, stock up a bit on the things imported, like coffee, tea, cocoa, etc. Plastic, tarps, and tape are not a bad idea, particularly if you live close to, or downwind from, a potential target. Sincerely hoping we never need that preparation for that purpose, but one of the best deterrents is preparedness. Once I no longer have to fear a link from Insty costing me an unexpected $100 or more, need to get into that discussion.
More soon.
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If you would like to help me in my recovery efforts, feel free to hit the tip jar in the upper right or the fundraiser at A New Life on GiveSendGo. Getting hit by lightning is not fun, and it is thanks to your gifts and prayers that I am still going. Thank you.