“The RoseBouquet”

Yesterday was a red letter day in my house. The Inspector for the RRAP program of our provincial and federal government finally came! He was very polite, and professional and even friendly. He took time to explain the program from the basic premise on up. It looks like I’m a real candidate for this forgiveable 5 year loan. I just have to commit to staying here at least five years to pay it off.

He said he was required to check all structural, plumbing and electrical systems to make sure they are (or shall be) sound and safe. They have only $16,000 for this, so if my total expense comes to more than that, I’ll be required to pay the overage. It’s an all or nothing deal. (Someone else had needed $70,000 worth of work so they had not even taken on that person).

I will be getting the official report in the mail very quickly, but told told me that I definitely need new shingles, facia boards, and eavestroughs. I will need a new furnace and water heater too. He is also putting in that I need a whole new frame and door at the back of the kitchen, going to the back porch. The man said he’d put down windows as well, but then my project would go over the limit, so I’ll have to replace them on my own some day when I can afford it. Some electrical and plumbing work will be required too.

I had prayed that he would be fair and reasonable, and I feel he was certainly that.

Once I get a package of documents in the mail called the “Estimate Package” I will have six months to get quotes from various contractors as to how much they would charge. Then I must send them in, and once okayed, the approved contractors have a year to complete the work - and I am to see myself as Project Manager. All their office’s contacts will only be with me.

If that seems a long time period, hear this; he said that they have been so swamped with requests that some people are put on hold for a year so that the gov’t can get at the next year’s funding out of the tax pool. I am to consider myself fortunate to be at this stage of the game!

This morning I find my mind swirling with renovation daydreams. I thought last year was busy; maybe this year will top it?

In case you’re wondering about my rib, I’m happy to report that it is healing nicely. As of Saturday I have long stretches when I’m not aware of any pain. Just when I stretch out my left arm to do something more strenuous. I thank God that our bones usually do mend with time.