Floors, Flus, and Flakes

(In that order...)

This week began with the laying of our new hardwood floor. Monday and Tuesday were loud days full of banging and sanding and compressor machines going on and off. Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday were quiet, fast days of staining, and staining again. Luckily, the flooring company took all the guesswork out of what stain to choose from because they made the decision themselves based on a sample of our existing floor. We are extremely happy with the results, and other than the apparent scent of fresh wood stain in the air (and the unfortunate timing of needing do laundry in the basement but not being able to access the basement), we cannot wait to check the floors out! So far, they look fantastic and really bring the room together. It's beginning to feel like we're nearing the home stretch of this kitchen remodel! We have continued to update our progress via photos here.

Unfortunately, this week has not only been full of floors and (not so much) fun, but also fevers, fatigue, and (WARNING: Stop reading if you are grossed out by words that describe bodily fluids...) phlegm. (Sorry.) On Tuesday morning, Brian and I both awoke with some seriously achy bodies, and it wasn't because of our weekend rendezvous in Vegas...at all. (We're tame people, folks. Obviously.) I have never felt so weak in my life, and the only satisfaction I had was when I was curled up in the fetal position in bed. We had both come down with some strain of the flu virus and have been battling it since. Other than feeling extreme exhaustion, Brian seems to have kicked the flu to the curb quite successfully. I, on the other hand, have not. After a second doctor's visit today, it appears that my little viral flu friend has morphed into a bacterial bronchitis friend. Lovely. I have never had bronchitis before, but, trust me, it's not fun. Jack has been unbelievably sweet and caring, laying his head on us as we sit on the couch, and generally giving us less trouble than we can really handle. What a considerate puppy! He knows we don't feel well and we are extremely thankful for his patience as we try and get well sooner rather than later. Hopefully, this time next week will find us feeling even better!

Last, but certainly not least, the snow gods have once again dumped nearly seven inches of snow on us, allowing my dear husband to have a go, again, at his new snow toy...twice! Despite having the flu! (He's a trooper, I tell ya!) We are thankful for the fluffy flakes that have blanketed our yard and are itching to go out and play as soon as we feel better. With the 8 degree Fahrenheit high temperatures we are expected to have for the next few days, we know the snow will be around for quite some time while we recoup in the warm, toasty indoors! (As will our floors...)

We're hoping our flus will not...