Summer is a great time of year to work on the house. A little spackle here, a dash of paint there and focused attention to the details. It seems I’ve been walking around Winterpast ignoring the details and the more obvious. Just as I am an old wrinkly woman, Winterpast is almost 2 decades old. She needs a little freshening up.
While I wait to see if my career will be rebooted in August, I find that my energy level is through the roof. Just yesterday, I found the perfect way to channel it, (although not the cheapest).
In the 1900’s, brassy gold trim was all the rage. Golden faucets, hinges, door handles, and even ceiling fans. Sparkly gold that, over the years, began to tarnish just a little. I’m not a fan of golden things, being more earthy and practical. Most people probably wouldn’t even notice the hinges or towel racks. But, Winterpast and I have a special relationship.
Yesterday, while putting the finishing touches on the hallway painting, I decided to do take my renovation a step further. Opening a “Pandora’s Box” of new touches, I went to the hardware store on a mission.
Aisle 16. There they were. An entire row of door handles and hinges. Every kind and color possible. It was exhilarating to be back in my element doing what I love doing the most. Handyman-ing. Winterpast now has four new door handles of oil-rubbed bronze. Striker plates — Changed. Hinges???? Changed. Out with the old, in with the new. With patience and focus, the hallway is transformed.
A word of warning to those of you that are itching to get out the tool belt. It is very unusual that the hinges in the store actually fit perfectly. Doors and their adjustments are very touchy. That I was able to exchange the old for the new was a bit of divine intervention.
As I was changing out the hardware I chose to use VST’s drill instead of a screwdriver. His energy and love surrounded me, guiding me to work at lightning speed and finish four doors in under two hours. Memories of his love and protection cloaked me as I remembered the hours we spent renovating our little cabin in the woods or the DunMovin’ House. There isn’t an hour that goes by that his words of wisdom about life, love, and home repairs are not comforting me. I am so lucky to have loved and been loved by such a man.
Later today, I’m installing my very own “Ring” doorbell. With security concerns always in the back of my mind, I look forward to having eyes and ears on the front of my house, even when I’m away. A handy way to record all the comings and goings here at Winterpast. VST, I apologize for chastising you about your love of video surveillance. You win. I’m moving into 2022 enjoying the wonders of a computerized sentry at the front door.
With my very expensive shopping trip and project completed, I’m off to Bible Study today. My new group of girlfriends are fluffed up in excitement with talk of all the snacks they’ll be bringing to class. I’m so blessed to be surrounded in a sea of people that genuinely love and care for me.
Today is so beautiful. Enjoy every minute.
More tomorrow.