Sometimes you have to call in a professional.
The pedestal sink in the main bathroom is up now and the faucet appears to be working with no leaks.
However, now we have a non-functioning kitchen sink. It started when we decided to replace the broken sprayer before we had guests from Connecticut next weekend. I had the sprayer in my condo sink replaced a couple of times and it seemed like a very fast, simple, cheap thing to do. I wanted to ensure there would not be a crazy wet scene if either of our guests tried to use the malfunctioning sprayer that can not be turned off. However, everything under the sink is so old, dilapidated, and cobbled together that I just ended up turning off the water supply to the sink until we can get a plumber in. We were able to schedule a visit on Thursday - one day before our guests arrive. Hopefully, this will go smooth and quick.
We have guests coming to the house on Friday so there is not any time to waste making the house as functional as possible. I personally think it is a bad idea for John to invite people over before we have accomodations (like a bathroom door in place - or a sink, although that's been resolved in the bathroom for now) but it is a great motivation to get things done here. I stand with my hands tied waiting for everything, not empowered to make any decisions and not able to pay for anything, even groceries.
I have been feeling especially sad from having no work but perhaps, just this week while things are going on at the house, it is fortunate that I can be home to deal with any contractors who need to come in.