This project has been completed. Begun in late August, completed in mid-November.

Tuesday, 14 Oct., the contractor I hired poured concrete into the forms for my new steps and stoop.

They started around 7:30 AM, at least that's when I woke up and found 'em working. After a few hours, all but two of the workers left. The two workers continued to dress the concrete and remove the wooden forms. The concrete had set up enough to hold it's shape without support. It should be safe enough to walk upon in two days.

Next project is to select an iron works contractor to install the railings.

I opened another checking account for exclusive use with PayPal. My bank offers a no minimum, no fee checking account which fits my needs perfectly. I will use teh Internets  to transfer funds between the new account and my high-rate interest (2.05%) or day-to-day bill paying checking accounts. I ordered the bare minimum number of checks of a different color and style than my other two acounts. Plus, I will be getting a debit card for the new account shortly.

I also selected a contractor to replace my concrete steps, stoop and front sidewalk. 30 years of hard winters have taken their toll on them (especially the recent winters of ice storms with their rapid freeze/melt cycles).

Next up, I need to select a contractor to install new hand rails and railing. I have wrought iron now, I'd like to have wood or one of the new composite materials.

Then time for some plumbing improvements in the kitchen.