This is really lookin' like the year that D-ski and I take on constructing a real place to stay at the LNP project. We've already shared and explored some of the details of this next development step within the Our Pond Home thread.
Since this is going to be a pretty big step for us, it's gonna get a a web page on our LNP website. This will be where we maintain and keep the updates as they occur. I don't want to have to keep 2 identical journals on this phase, so I'll use this thread to keep those that might be interested up to date. As the web page is updated, I'll post progress summaries here.
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The project isn't really anything particularly special, or that big of a deal, except that we plan to DIY a very large portion of it's construction. You get to watch us make stupid mistakes. You guys know me; I won't let you down. I hope and plan for a few victories along the way, too. We'll see what these two middle aged hearts, minds, and bodies can dish out to get us there.
As always, we remain receptive to thoughts and ideas.
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Come join us, won't you?
LNP garage-apartment web page

The sooner you get started the sooner the real fun will begin, not kidding. Even considering the frustrations that will arise, it will be a blast.

I don't know if this work for you, but...

The first thing we did was build a shed type building to store materials in. The first was open on 3 sides, second was open all around. We used them as a shop to fabricate various parts of the project as well. Having a level concrete floor, lots of electricity and materials centrally located were big bonuses.


We also used them for shelter during brief thunder showers and for shade. They became kitchens and bars at the end of many of the work days.

We planned all alone to turn the shed into another use structure when the house project was completed. The first time was a garage the second was as a party/bbq spot.

The project is special and is a big deal Brettski cause like it or not you're one of us (pond boss pond meisters). I read your new LNP page - good stuff.

What are you gonna contract out and what are you going to do yourself? (Inquiring minds want to know).

Definitely the concrete flat work; I'm lousy on finishing slabs. Maybe the footings and walls too. If we elect to pour the footers and walls ourselves, we will contract the excavation work from a guy that we have worked with before. He already has all the equipment, works by the hour at a reasonable rate, and is cheaper (and more convenient) in the long haul than renting DIY excavation equipment.
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Past that, its D-ski and me against the world.

Look out, World.

Here we go again. Can you say OBSESSED?

Brettski, Be happy in your work.

Honey...I think my ground just broke...
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Not much time right now. We're in between trips to LNP and runnin' ragged. I don't know when I'll see the time to update the website, but rest assured that there was no goofin' off today.
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Just exactly how money do you have?

Brettski:

Were you the one wondering if a metal roof would conform to a radiused roof? If so, or if it's anyone eles on the forum I have some pictures of how someone in the area re-roofed their radius roofed barn.

not enough to avoid this

I posted this on the wrong thread; should have been here.
I'm seeing a PB party for 2010 in the making. I'll be bringing the Top 5 SMB lures.

Wow BSKI - you are a man with a very progressive vision. I say it's far more important to save your funds for projects like this than spending it on Costa Del Mar blades!

Since Burger is inviting, color me there too - I'll bring the top five....um, I'll supply the booze!

It's only the start, but it's on. The last 4 days have been non-stop manual labor. Dski and I are WAY beyond exhausted. I knew we were in for a ride when my excavator told me that we were not only going to cut the hole on Friday, but we were going to set the iron and pour the footing that afternoon. That day just set the pace. Donna-ski has been a dynamo. From slinging 40+ lb forms around to flipping 3/4" x 20' rebar to running the concrete stinger. Truly an amazing woman.
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Do you have to have your footings inspected before pouring the mud? Do you need a permit to build in your area? I've never seen a foundation that could pass an inspection without the inspector being able to see into the hole. Some will actually measure how deep and wide it is, but most just look and say that's fine.

Eddie

Oh yeah, a building permit and footer inspection was routine. It was an extraordinarily relaxed and low-tech procedure for both, but I'm accustomed the working with Cook county(Chicago). The difference in pressure and requirements is night and day.

It's looking great Brettski! When this is done all the hard work will be well worth it. A sincere congratulations on the ground breaking my friend.

By that statement I'm guessing that there wasn't a fat unmarked sealed envelope required for the inspector? I heard from a good friend in the business that Dolton is even worse.

The work really does look great!! As always.

Otto is up early as usual!

That's because dirt never sleeps and therefore a dirt mover must be ever vigilant.

Or he has insomnia.

Or perhaps he is up late.

Maybe, and this is merely a theory, Otto is in fact an earth moving vampire or were wolf.

Lusk said he went to bed after the news the 6 o'clock news.
No time for fair and balanced for this guy.

Dski and I left the house at 5:30 am and returned at 10:30 pm. We got the entire foundation stripped and all the forms re-loaded back onto the trailer.

WOW Bski. It's looking great!

Details of phase 1...
Drop down on the page to "LET THE CONCRETE FLOW"