Light Speed

Michael and Andrew arrived at Mrs S' house with the knowledge that the list of tasks to be completed was quite extensive. After a quick introductory chat, the pair got straight to task number one: affixing a solar-powered outdoor light to the fence so that the driveway would be illuminated whenever someone arrived at the house. This was completed in a matter of minutes, even including the time taken to unscrew the light after having attached it, in order to actually switch it on, before reattaching it again. Even though it was a cloudy day, hopefully there was enough daylight for the battery to charge, ready for the light to be tried out later that evening.

Task number two was to replace a broken washing line, including hooking a new pulley to the metal hoop that was attached to the wall. However, even when standing on the top platform of a stepladder, the hoop was far out of reach. After a brief survey of nearby items that might be able to be MacGyvered into use, the pair settled on what looked like the broken handle of an old rake, which they managed to use to hook the pulley in place. The rest of the washing line was installed with no trouble, and Mrs S was even left with enough spare line to put it to use somewhere else!

Time for a quick biscuit break, and then onto task three: reattaching a drawer front that had fallen off. Mrs S had a variety of adhesives from which to choose, so after brief consideration, Michal and Andrew selected one based on the fact that it said Extra Strong on the tube. They used more than enough to hold the dowels in place, so fingers crossed the drawer front will stay in place from now on.

Unfortunately, the final two tasks were not able to be completed. Mrs S had been given some security devices that were meant to be stuck to her front door and windows. However, the design of the devices meant that they were not compatible with her door or windows. In fact, it was difficult to imagine many modern homes that would have the kind of doors and windows that would work with these devices. Mrs S had also bought another outdoor light to replace one that had begun to deteriorate. However, as the light needed to be wired into the mains, Michael and Andrew were not qualified to install it.

With no more tasks left to tackle, the pair had a bit more of a chat with Mrs S, who was very grateful for their hard work and company. They finished off the plate of biscuits (at her request!) and then went on their merry way.