This past weekend my husband and I tackled a home improvement project. Like most couples we don't always see eye to eye or communicate well but, we have learned, over the years, not to get too worked up or frustrated. We have the same goal in mind, we might have different routes planned, but the end result is always something beneficial for the whole family.
This project was no different, except there were some significant power tools involved. And not to toot my own horn, well maybe just a bit, I have a very steady hand with power saws. Not to mention, I love them.
However, what I do lack is brute strength. So you can see that in building a pergola over our back patio my husband and I had to work as a productive machine.
Here's how it went down, or I should say, up:
Day 1: We are full of energy and carry six 6x6 posts that are about 15 feet tall around to the back yard. We, or I should say my husband and our wonderful neighbor, dig all six post holes by hand. This takes us ALL DAY! I helped finish the last hold in the dark. My main role was to mix and pour the concrete into the holes and help brace the posts.
Day 2: I carried all the 2x6 x10 boards around to the cutting station where I 'dog-eared' them. My arms nearly fell off. Treated lumber is extremely heavy. But, while I did the cutting the men did the lifting. See, team work. Below is a picture of my husband cutting the excess off the posts once we had the stringers level. He is using a chain saw. I am standing back out of harm's way.
Below is a picture of my cutting station. I love that saw.
Coming soon: a finished photo once the patio stones are all back in place. We expanded the patio about five feet as well for a larger grilling area. At the end of day two a storm arrived so we didn't get to do the arranging and decorating yet. Hubs went from post to post with an 18 inch drill bit, punching holes through the supports and posts. I followed along behind and set the massive bolts in place that hold it all together. We finished that up just as the wind picked up and the rain begin in earnest. Teamwork, we succeeded through to the end.
Without my team here in Fiction Flurry, I doubt I'd be at the place I am in my path to publication. Thanks much everyone!