In which I learn that I'm not a DIY-er.

So: over the winter, the crappy looking pavers that make up our front walkway exploded due to the constant thaw-and-refreeze weather we had. So I decided that I would replace them with new pavers. Because how hard can it be? So today I went and got all the necessary stuff: crushed gravel for the base, sand for leveling, even a tamper and a wheelbarrow and gloves. Everything but the actual block. I knew it would be hard work, but I have the week off (use-it-or-lose-it vacation days), so whatever. The weather didn't want to cooperate, but today was not rainy, though cold. So I start digging up the old pavers and... there's a big concrete slab under there. Why is there concrete? I don't know. But now I have to rent a jackhammer and break it up. and then haul it out (which would be easier if not for the narrow gate that goes into our back yard, which is where I'm dumping it for the time being). I'm guessing that as I break up the concrete, I'll bust a gas main or something and blow up the house. It'll be something, I'm sure.

One thing I know for sure: Someone else is doing the back yard.