Before and After!

What a difference a weekend makes! So often we head to the Ranch and don't get anything substantial done, but not this holiday weekend. We arrived at the Ranch on Saturday and got right to work (on lunch!) Norman had purchased the materials to begin the screen enclosure on the deck next to the motor home. Norman, Bart and the boys got right to work on various projects - picking up branches and sticks, gathering stuff that could get ruined or thrown around in the effects of Hurricane Gustav and gradually assembling 13 trusses. Sunday was our anxious day, though we really were not that anxious, having kept an eye on Gustav through the internet in Norman's "library". We got some gardening done, planted the mint and some other plants in pots, weeded and mulched around the azaleas Granny planted this past Spring. By Monday, the wind and rain bands began their steady imposition. Thankfully it was mild enough that we were able to continue working and eating (though our brunch was nearly drenched!) By Labor Day afternoon, the men had built the uprights and installed two trusses! Soon, there will be a sheltered place to enjoy meals and fellowship while steady progress is made on the lodge.

Of course there has been lots done to the lodge since we were there a few weeks ago, the electricity and plumbing are getting closer to truly functional there is almost a "laundry room." A bunch of lights as well as a ceiling fan have been installed and many boxes of tile ready to finish the floor in the painted bathhouse. One of the showers has some nice trim-work and lots more tin is on the roof. Grand is an understatement, even the fire escape ladder is built large and sturdy. Nothing is slapped together, it is carefully thought out and finely executed. Still there is a bunch to do, and lots of enjoyment to be had in the process!

Hopefully many of you will be able to come and enjoy the fun and construction that is keeping Granny and Grampa so busy!