Tax Time

     Despite being in the midst of a strike by public service workers, we still have to get our tax returns in by the end of the month. That's just seven days off!

    I am almost done but discovered an error while copying out the good version. so had to redo all my calculations. I owe money this year and the error added another $20 to that bill. So I wasn't a happy camper for a while. Never mind, I feel better after a glass of vodka cooler and some yummy cheese and crackers.

   It has been a rather dismal weekend, cooler and rainy. Normally I would have been out on the tennis courts today but since no one is around yet to play with (one friend in the U.K. at a funeral and another still vacationing in Florida) I didn't feel the need to rush over there this morning. It will keep for another week. The official opening day is next Saturday so let's hope for better weather by then.

The Shed

     My latest project has been in the planning stage since last Fall but is finally taking shape. I have wanted a shed to enclose the pool equipment for some time, basically from when the old shed had to be junked to put in a new heater. That was three or four years ago. My son did help me install a temporary shed but it only lasted one winter and proved incompatible with the location and equipment so I had to have it removed. Luckily I found someone to buy it and dismantle it although the price was nominal. It was a good deal for them!

   The new one is being done by a professional which I should have gone with in the first place. We live and learn. Anyway, last week work started and the first stage, constructing a cement pad, was completed yesterday. Construction on the shed will begin soon. The photos loaded from latest to earliest so that's how I will take you through it!

   

This is the cement pad finished, just needs the wooden forms removed.

Waiting for the cement to be laid.

The site once the pool equipment had been removed.

The pool equipment still "in situ". Ugly, isn't it? That's why I wanted it covered. Also, the electrical outlet was not designed to be exposed to the elements. I am so excited to finally get this done!

Back to the Icebox

     From a high of 29C last week we are now at 4C. I just hope it doesn't get below zero!

   I had to dig out my winter coat, gloves and hat today but I refuse to go back to wearing boots! They are in a cupboard in my basement and they are staying there no matter what. No snow for us in the forecast but some areas may get some tonight. Yuk!!

   It's 10:30 p.m. and I am trying to distract myself from nibbling as I have to fast until tomorrow morning (14 hrs.). I was at the doctor this morning to get a prescription renewed and now have to go for blood work tomorrow. This is the time when my resolve and self control are weakest but I am determined to go for the tests on an empty stomach. Wish me luck!

The Heatwave Continues

    Yesterday set a record with the high temperature and today is likely to do the same. If Friday's projected temperature of 29C is achieved, it will break a record set in 1938! 

   I had an unexpected phone call this morning inviting me to a Bridge game in the afternoon. I usually only play Bridge on Tuesdays but this was a pleasant change with a couple of people I don't often meet. It also helped to improve my mood as I had an appointment with a cardiologist earlier who prescribed two new medications for Atrial Fibrillation which I didn't know I had! Fortunately, I can continue with all my usual activities as long as I don't overdo things. Seemingly AF is a danger sign for a stroke which I would rather not experience.

   I managed to capture some Spring flowers and I noticed the Forsythia is about to bloom. However, I'm not about to put away my winter clothes just yet.