Breaking Bath

The House of Rock has started its next renovation adventure: the bathrooms. Plural.

Having never embarked on such a journey, I vasty underestimated the job. This is not unusual. Sometimes my mind tricks me into thinking that renovation jobs will be simple, and only once I’ve passed the point of no return do I realize that I have entered a world of hurt.

I’m doing the demolition for the two bathrooms and then I’ve hired a family friend to help with fixing things up.

I’m saving the pedestal sink – I think it is classy
That tile floor hides an inch and a half of rock

Thankfully my roommate Brian was available to help with the demolition. He was far more efficient than I was, though I’ve learned a few tricks that will most certainly help me on the second bathroom.

Stripped to its bones
Its a gonna need a new subfloor as well

Today the reconstruction begins.

Nothing too crazy with this first bathroom. New walls, new floor, new tile, new framing, and a less mildew friendly shower area. More photos to come!

The War on Ivy

It’s a shame that Poison Ivy isn’t a cash crop – because Jed Clampett’s boon would have nothing on my natural resource. The House of Rock is plagued by Poison Ivy. But this is no weak intruding battalion of greens, nay. The roots of one infestation easily had a 40mm diameter. The House of Rock is infested by the Andre the Giant of Poison Ivy plants.

I’ve struck back at this itchy invasion before, but this time it was no holds barred. Literally, no holds were barred because I bought a pair of chemical coveralls.

Stylin'

All was protected from that sinister oil except for about 5 square inches of exposed skin between my chin and my goggles.

Anyone who knows me knows exactly what happens next in this story: Poison ivy on my face.

Kevin: Hawkeye

Recently Roommate Kevin has noticed his vision degrading. Proactive as he is, he ventured into the optometrist office yesterday with the sinking feeling that glasses were in his future.

Turns out his sight is declining from 20/10 to 20/15.

Apparently Kevin is degrading from SuperHero to SuperHuman.

Zero pity.

The Pizza Party

While this winter might have been one of the tamest we’ve seen in recent history, it has felt like forever to the pizza oven which has laid quietly dormant for five months. And what better way to kick off daylight savings than resurrect its fiery heart! Indeed, the decision to host a pizza party at the HoR led to what very well might have been two of the most productive weeks ever seen by the likes of the House of Rock.

It started with a massive cleaning effort by Jen and me. Jen acted as catalyst, I acted as steamroller. Goodwill trips were made. Trashbags were filled. The mop was dusted off and used. It was a new day for the House of Rock.

Next I got rid of the Mazda and the Van. I used JunkmyCar.com – speedy and effective! I got about $300 for each vehicle. BAM. Then I scheduled a visit by the maids (MaidPro there). When the Saturday prep was first initiated the House of Rock glistened.

Saturday prep was extensive. Dough was made, toppings were chopped, meats were pre-cooked, and sauce was left simmering for hours.

Sunday morning saw an early start with the chopping of wood and the cleaning of the oven. We pulled back the cover and started the initial fire. A few hours later the guests started to arrive.

What a day! We made a ton of pizzas and supplemented them with salads, baked beans in the oven, and a few specialty items brought by the guests. Dad D brought poolish dough for pizza and Vivienne brought Naan.

Both experiments were successful (thought the poolish took a few tries).

I have a few pictures that I hope to load up tomorrow. Stay tuned for mouth-watering images.

Final verdict? Massive success. The oven held up fine after its first winter. I look forward to a summer of taste sensations.