Anyone else wait until they are having a party to finish projects? Well, with our impending holiday gathering, John undertook a flurry of projects all in one day!
Adding trim around fireplace
Last winter we replaced a wood burning stove with a pellet stove. It has been a game changer. Because it does not radiate as much heat, we were able to hang our stockings behind the fireplace. Unfortunately, the command hooks didn’t come off smoothly. Instead of patching the holes and re-using command hooks, John decided to add some trim instead. He ordered wrought iron hooks off Amazon. We love the final result!
Changed out channel for under cabinet lighting
Under cabinet lighting is one of those small things that makes a big difference. Only problem with my install was that the pvc channel sagged when we had the stove on a high temperature (obviously a safety hazard). John sourced a metal channel to replace it. Just two clips and voila! Safe under cabinet lighting.
Put up Christmas lights on outside of the house
John has got this down to a science. He installed cup hooks across the front our our house. Each year, he takes out the lights and uses a broom to put the cord onto the cup hook. And in January, he reverse the process. Easy peasy.
Replaced rotting beams in awning
Back in October, the kids were playing outside with their cousins and one of my nephews realized one of the posts on the awning over the side door was significantly rotted. I’ll do a separate post on how to fix this problem, step by step. John replaced both posts (that were originally temporary, but … life) so they are safe for our guests (and the many, many delivery drivers).
Patched holes and nail pops in plaster
Nail pops are bound to happen, especially when you’re in a climate that has humidity fluctuations. With kids and dogs, holes and other scuffs are also bound to happen. In the living room and staircase, John did a rough sand, used quick drying patching material, waited for it to dry, sanded and then painted. Walls look good as new.
We haven’t gotten to all the items on our punch list (looking at you, basement), but we made good progress. What projects have you crossed off your list before the holidays are in full swing?