Finally Spring

After a very long winter, spring finally arrived and we were able to turn our attention to the outside of our "lake home". 

Once the ice and snow finally melted the temporary plastic shelter was removed and we can finally see the entire road side exterior wall. Hugh also planted some grass seed which has come along very well.

The first exterior project was the deck railing. It was not at all to code (a couple of horizontal 2 x 4's).
Fortunately Tim and his (and Amy's) 2 young daughters came north to visit us in early June, and Tim was an eager participant in this project. 

First step was to remove the old railing.

Tim and Hugh then decided to remove the corner that had the large tree growing through it, in order to free the tree (and avoid having to cut that hole any bigger), and replace it with an angled edge and railing. Here they're determining how to execute this plan. There were a lot of mosquitoes so this photo is a little compromised by my unwillingness to actually go outside to take the photo.

They worked diligently on the deck all week and completed the large posts, most of the wooden framework, and a few sections of the spindles.

The girls enjoyed watching their dad and grandfather from bug free comfort.

Tim celebrated their accomplishments with a chilly swim (accompanied by Holly) on the last day. 

Hugh carried on with a little assistance from me and completed the railing.

A major change in the deck design was to remove the steps and ramp from the lake side of the deck to the dock, and relocate the dock access to the side of the deck. With the addition of a gate at that side of the deck, the deck can now be fully enclosed to corral dogs and children. (More about the dock in the next post!.)
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We are delighted with the finished deck!