HOME IMPROVEMENT

Carpenters have invaded Casa de la Flaming Bore off and on since last Friday. The kitchen is getting a new countertop and backsplash. I wish I’d taken a “before” picture of the nasty turquoise top and the turquoise and gold speckled backsplash that I have hated since moving in 25 years ago, but it might have been too much of a shock for the camera. Gone at last! It’s about time.

I’ve always wanted a blue (not turquoise!) and white kitchen, and once I get motivated enough to paint the cabinets, I will have it. I like to paint--it’s such a forgiving activity--so this surely will be something I can do without too much difficulty. Brush, drip, and wipe. No sweat.

Having the kitchen torn apart has sort of been a drag. We had to temporarily remove much of the junk stuffed in the top drawers and underneath the sink, so everything is sort of strewn throughout the adjacent plant room and bedroom. Somewhere underneath the utensils and platters and cleansers are some cactus. Who knows what has happened to the telephone.

The work should be done later today, and then I’ll try to clean up the joint. A place for everything and everything in its place--neatness not required. Just shove the doors and drawers closed and hope for the best.