Pouring in Hudson

No one is more surprised than I am that the job of re-doing the private quarters of the White House residence has gone to someone else.  I was sure I was going to be selected.  But as they say, “the Lord works in mysterious ways.”  How could I have given the attention that job would have needed if I am still working on Brokeback Manor?  Timing is everything!  How disrespectable to keep Air Force One waiting at La Guardia while I discuss with contractor Mitch the proper shade of taupe for my concrete floor.  And speaking of floors, I do believe it is going to be poured this week.  Do you think I should do my own mini Grauman’s Chinese Theater and imprint my hand- and foot-prints in the entry/library?  This could have been another potential conflict with the Obamas.  “Would you mind putting off that summit meeting ’til next week?  I can’t make it to D.C. tomorrow; Mitch used fast drying cement, and I’m stuck here in Hudson.

Then there is the other side to this dilemma.  Think of what it would have done to the resale value of my house had I convinced them to make a brief stopover on their way to Europe to have a cup of tea.  “Please do come in. Just ignore that wet cement sign in the entry, I’m sure the floor is dry by now.  Oops sorry about that, my mistake!”  The headlines would read: “President and Mrs. Obama make stopover at decorator’s new abode, are deeply impressed.”

Just an aside, I received yesterday a form letter addressed to all tenants at my office building from the managing agent.  It is dated “14 January A.D. 2009.” (True story) So glad for the clarity! I file my paperwork by date and it can get confusing.

I will be going to see the house this coming week, and I will bring back progress pictures  (the demand for them has been overwhelming).  Hopefully I can show the new flooring.  One important question I did ask about this concrete flooring and the radiant heat is “what happens if something goes wrong with the heating, how does one repair it?”  And Mitch said, “It won’t.” I do feel so much better having that question answered! 

Until next week…