Canoeing

I've really enjoyed having the lake in our "backyard." If it's not raining, I canoe every evening. It's a short walk- 5 minutes- and we store the canoe on the shore. It's perfect. I usually just canoe with Charlie, but occasionally Silvio comes with us. We only use one paddle, so I've become the gondolier extraordinaire! I'm quite impressed with my canoeing skills- backing up, stopping, not being blown into the side on windy days.

I love the days when I'm alone (no offense Silv). The quiet and stillness give me time to be thankful for all the great things in my life. I look over and see my amazing dog running and smiling; I look down and the water is crystal clear; I look up and the sky goes on forever; I look inside and know I've come so far. Those are really great moments. I'll miss my lake this winter.

An evening with friends

Last night we went to Knik River Lodge to have dinner with Peter, Evelyne, and Storm. We haven't seem them much this summer because they're busy running their lodge. They have a really special place- beautiful view ( look behind the first photo of Peter and Eef), beautiful cabins, and the best food we've eaten all summer. The veggies tasted fresh from the garden. The wine was amazing.

This year they converted their rustic, Yukon-tent-style restaurant to a yurt. It really matches the surrounding. We ate outside beacause they had a large group inside. Storm, little guy in photos, is growing and absolutely darling. He's quite the little boy- running, trying to pick up heavy rocks, and not phased by a fall or dirt. :) I had a great time playing with him- gotta love that baby belly laugh.

I really enjoyed spending time at their place and sharing in their success. They work really hard everyday- working for their dream. It's nice to see things working so well. Silvio said it was the best meat (Beef Wellington) he's eaten in America- huge compliment from my carnivore.

Progress...

We've been the busy the last few days! As you can see our mascot, Charlie, is wiped out. Lots of time on the job site, in the rain, will do that to you. :)

Silvio is filling the blocks with concrete. He walked the house and garage 4 times. It was very stressful; often the blocks will blow out and then you have a mess.

Silvio worked until 1am the night before finishing the blocks and bracing. He has worked sooo hard on this house. I'm really proud of him and his hard work. It's pretty cool to see a hillside covered with trees one day and then a few weeks later.....this.

I love the picture of our garage. I can't wait to park my car in my slot.

This picture shows the beginning of block stacking. What a process!