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Good to see you are looking after your Dads side of nutrition - I would adopt the same methodology.
Sounds like Canada is stagnating at the moment....
As far as the Mylar goes = Have you tried putting heavy duty Duct tape around the edges then stapling over and through the Duct tape? This should avoid ripping and tearing and provide a bit of stability? Just an idea!
Don't worry dude! You've got a roof over your head at least...

ROME WASN'T BUILT IN A DAY
When you are sorted, you'll be sorted.