Memorial day was just that, memorable! Just maybe not for the things you might think.

I don't know why, but I woke up in a destructive mood, so I decided to put it to good use and tear down the hot tub. In the early years the hot tub had been a small piece of paradise at times, but like most things the years wear on it. We have been in this house seventeen years this December and the hot tub was already in place when we took up residence so who knows it's exact age. It had had a couple of major repairs on the power unit, and numerous coats of sealer and stain. Ultimately the gazebo was actually rotting away. Good things can't last forever! I had checked on replacing the power unit and of course it is the major portion of the cost of a new 'tub, especially when the remainder of the unit is suspect.

We are going to forego replacing the hot tub, at least for the near future as the former 'tub location is now ear marked for the future outdoor kitchen. That may not happen this year either. I do know that there are a lot of supplies that have been left over from previous projects that could probably be used to at least do the concrete slab.

I suppose we have a back yard project that is in four stages. #1 was the removal of the hot tub. #2 is the removal of the grandbabies playhouse. (Krl has given it away). #3 the removal of the swingset (which although it is galvanized is rapidly rusting away at crucial points). And #4 begins the reconstruction with the outdoor kitchen cement slab.

We had one man that wanted the wood from the hot tub gazebo along with what firewood we had but no longer wanted. He and his wife came by late and picked up all the firewood and picked through and hauled away the lumber he wanted. Hopefully he will make it by today or tomorrow to dispose of the balance. That just leaves the "tub" for me to haul away.

Roofers arrive today. This is the final portion of Trc's rework on the house. I will be relieved when this is completed. Insurance had authorized the replacement of the roof a couple of years ago and it is paid for. I like that kind of deal, get the work done and not have to pay! The only thing left to do is to put the awning covers on. We are changing our stripes, we are going with a charcoal roof and charcoal awnings!

My honey has converted her part of the back yard into a gorgeous paradise. Lush flowers adorned in their "Sunday best", a couple of bird feeders which keep a steady flow of fowls coming and going. Quite regularly we have squirrels stop by to grab a quick bite or to get a drink from the pool. It is quite a sight when Maple Syrple sees the squirrels and chases them and their chatter as they race along the fence top! Of course in the background you can hear Krl scolding Maple for not being hospitable!

Today. What to do. I plan on making my early rounds to see what loads might be available and then I will know. A distinct possibility is a quick trip to the metroplex to return some lease/rental equipment. Maybe tomorrow.

I do have several office projects to do (Of course!).

Be the real deal!

FATHER, YOU the man!