All systems go

This has been a busy day. It started at 7.30 am when I met the SSE power distribution people on site. Unfortunately, our meter box did not fit their criteria (i.e. it wasn't plastic). They agreed to return later on in the day if I bought a plastic one in the meantime.

Before I had a chance to go to tackle the very male-dominated Jewsons, the plumber arrived to do the standpipe. Unfortunately, he could not find the water pipe at first (i think there may be a theme here) and dug a large hole in the line of bushes with no success.

While I was out, SGN sent someone with a tarmac machine and filled in their hole - that was quick work.

The plumber was by then fighting with the bushes to make another hole and then promptly disappeared; not inside the hole but instead mumbled something about parts. Meanwhile I started fighting with my new PLASTIC meter box.

It wasn't easy balancing a meter box on one leg while standing over a trench, and meanwhile trying to screw in the box to a bit of unstable ply. I was not going to give in but I'm very pleased that there wasn't anyone overhearing my colourful language.

Suddenly, while my back was turned, and I was thinking about a late lunch, like buses, everyone turned up at once.

The SSE blokes came to sort out the diverted temporary power supply. I hope they were wearing rubber boots.

Then the plumber returned and sorted out the standpipe.

And the portable loo arrived.

For a while there, we were overwhelming the street. It's a good thing I have kind neighbours. Neighbours, if you're reading this, THANK YOU but I'm afraid there is worse to come...tomorrow the demolition guys are moving in with a (so I'm told) BIG MACHINE.