homestretch

Homestretch on Frame

Happy 2010! I'm excited to be in the next decade! The last one had some real ups and downs. I'm grateful that the last couple of years provided some hidden opportunities, which came in the form of, ironically, business slowdown. While cashflow has been lighter than I would have conciously chosen, the extra time has allowed me to pursue work that is especially rewarding. This past 2 work years have consisted primarily of designing and building sustainable, timber framed, traditionally appointed buildings, which are almost completely powered by renewable energy. I couldn't be happier than doing this work, and actually feel that I'm contributing to solutions for world challenges!

Another bonus for me came in the form of a realization. My wife and I were having some challenges in deciding how to renovate our own home. Our main dilemma was between the priorities of: 1- making the changes that would best suit our lifestyle and beliefs, and 2- being able to get our equity out of the property when we decide to move. The realization was; if everyone in this position let go of the parochial need to make a short term profit when they sold their real estate, and instead renovated and maintained their property at the highest level that they were capable of, eventually the whole world would be more beautiful, property values would increase, and we would all live in better and better homes. This conclusion has enabled us to plan our own renovation and barn construction in the way that will truly support us, and has freed us to feel great about it. We know that we'll love it, it will be a great work example for my business, and the next people that own it will be getting a great home.

Now back to the project at hand. I am almost done with this frame that I've been working on. The only framing left to do is the dormer on the south side. After the dormer is complete, I'll let the frame weather for the winter and bring it to the property that will be it's final home, where my crew and I will complete it. It's been a pleasure to work on this frame and I love all of the proportions.

Winter for me will consist of design work, interior renovation, finishing up much of the work of getting licensed as an architect, lots of tele skiing in powder, and dusting off my guitars and mandolins.

Here are the current progress pics of this frame - have a great 2010!