In addition to getting the sink organized, we're also moving forward on other fixture decisions.
After our trip to the stone yard, we zoomed into Home Depot and Lowe's in pursuit of the perfect toilet and tub. I've decided I wanted a dual flush toilet (these are toilets that have a stronger and weaker flush, depending on need--everywhere in Europe, but much rarer here). All toilets are much more efficient and water-saving than they used to be--are dual flushes that much better? Opinions might be mixed, but it is an excellent idea.
I also wanted the higher toilet (strongly recommended for more comfort, older users, etc), and due to the small narrow configuration of the bathroom we wanted a round, rather than elongated seat. How oblivious I've been to all these toilet variations! This area does seem that one can gain mastery relatively quickly--but this is probably an opinion based on ignorance--the world of toilets may be vaster than I've ever imagined.
We did come to some decisions based on our limited research--an American Standard Dual Flush toilet, called Clean Cadet III ( I think) and were moving towards a cast iron apron front tub by Kohler--(Villager 716--the most popular Kohler--pretty standard, but appropriate for an old house--not as appropriate as an old claw foot--but much less expensive. Veering towards the relatively traditional, we decided against what I think of as a more modern look of a tiled tub (even though I do like the way they look).
On Monday morning, George scoffed at the idea of buying plumbing fixtures at Lowe's or Home Depot. The only thing to do, he said, was to go to a plumbing supply store and show room. Always glad for a big box alternative, I took myself to Hamburg plumbing supply where sure enough, I found the tub we wanted (it turned out it wasn't available at the other stores) at the best price I'd seen, and as they had a Toto dual flush toilet on major sale ("the Toto is the Cadillac of Toilets, Kristine, the saleswoman informed me, in response to my complete ignorance of the Toto world). Although it cost a bit more (even on sale) than its American Standard counterpart, she assured me it was ten thousand times better--and the deal of the century. I am either being well educated in advanced toiletry or just muddling along. In any case, I was convinced enough to almost commit. I returned home with the invoices, consulted with Sarah, and on Tuesday, returned to Hamburg and actually made the purchase. The tub had to be ordered, but it should arrive in the next couple of days and for $10 they will deliver it to my door.
That seemed enough good work for the day--but there is more. The siding is slowly creeping up the back wall, and every day I remove a bit more paint from the porch ceiling.
Just as I was thinking I'd have to figure out some new plan for dealing with the eroded road (it didn't look like the state was going to be able to fit my road repairs into its busy schedule), Logan called to say he was en route on tractor to grade the road. Oh--why didn't I take a picture of the splendid fifty year old tractor? Logan marveled at the animosity of other drivers as he inched along 94. Gone are the days when the few cars on the road took slowing down behind a farmer's tractor as an integral part of rural life.
Once again, the road can be smoothly navigated. Good news for tub delivery and more important--the truck bearing the 40 foot gutter for the front porch will be able to sail right in.
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