'Remove' vs 'Abate'

We got to sleep in this morning. 7:50am. Ahhh, vacation.

By 8:20am, we had new wall paper:

We really need a new decorator.

New thing I've learned today: Anybody can 'remove' something, but it takes someone certified to 'abate' something. Don't ask me what the differences are exactly, because I can't really tell just from watching.

Where was I?  Sorry, I just had to write a check to the 'certified' guys carrying out the tile and scrapings in what looked like a hefty bag.  I'm guessing it'll be in the Arlington landfill tomorrow.  I could be wrong.

Road Block

Today's secret word is ASBESTOS.


Can you say ASBESTOS?


Good!  I knew that you could!

They say that when remodeling, you should always allow for the unexpected.  I would very much like to introduce you to "The Unexpected".

Not only is the original tile under the carpet in what was the office (originally formal dining room) ugly, but it also quite probably contains asbestos, as does the glue under it.  On Wednesday the guy with the space suit will come and remove enough so we can saw out the foundation and get electricity to the island.

Maybe this will be the only big SURPRISE! we encounter.