Got the chance to do some DIY on my deck.  Some pesky critters have been chewing it for …….a long time.  I knew I had to replace some pieces, but had just never felt inspired to.  Thanks to my recent success at replacing a stove ignitor, screen door pneumatic closer, and bathroom fan motor coupled with my obsession with YouTube woodworking videos, I felt that now was the time to tackle it.  It didn’t hurt that I was at the hardware store picking up some driveway crack sealer and the place was basically empty.

I also had the chance to use a lot of tools

• hammer
• measuring tape
• safety glasses
• drill
• pry bar
• back saw
• mitre box
• rotary tool with cut off disk
• broom and dust tray
• vacuum

I know those last two aren’t exactly tools…but they kind of are.  Using the backsaw and mitre box was not particularly fun, and it was rather hot today,  but I don’t have power tools….except that I do.  I have a bandsaw that needs a new blade, and I realized only after I finished that I had a circular saw.  Someone gave it to me and I haven’t had too many occasions to  use it.  Also, the person gave it to me without a blade and I haven’t bought one for it yet.

Still, I felt like I accomplished something.  I got to feel very handy when I approached the lumber desk at the hardware store.  The fact that I only needed one two by four and had to have it cut down to fit in my car was a little sad, but I didn’t mind so much.  I was emulating the people I watch on YouTube every day.  I got to cut a 45 degree angle and do a straight cut.  Obviously this was today’s Perfect Moment.

I still have a few more projects to tackle.  One of my outdoor lights needs replacing and the other one should be replaced but because of how they installed some siding, it is proving to be elusive.  I may just have to paint that one and install a different size screw to keep the globe in it safe.

I’ve got lots of painting to do.  This will no doubt require patching of drywall and other tasks, but this isn’t anything new.  I still have lots of pictures to  hang up and I could probably build a raised garden planter.  I guess I shouldn’t complain about working from home.  Without the commute, there is time to do lots of stuff.