We’re in mid-renovation due to a September plumbing disaster at Chez Benedict. One half of our house looks like we’re auditioning forHoarders. The other half looks a lot like this:

I’ve been through renovations before, yet they never get easier. Well, I guess the one we did with a nine-year-old and a toddler in the house was exceptionally rough. It also may be that I’m older, and relish living without near-strangers being very busy and noisy in my usually peaceful home. Home is a big word,...