Lots of progress with week with my dad and brother up here. They actually came to ride their ATVs around but also used them to move wood around. Got the two big trees cut up and hauled off. Also got the deck removed and taken to the dump. Silt fence is complete and inspected by the engineering department (thanks Jeff for the last 30 ft of trench). Lastly installed the temporary support under the house so it does not fall down during excavation. So, we are basically ready for the excavator.

Now have taken down most of the trees. The two big ones were pretty exciting to see fall. Site prep continues with the installation of silt fencing and construction fencing to protect the wetlands.

Bought a trailer to haul material, equipment, and stuff to the dump. Got a good deal on a 10,400# PJ Trailer in Parker, Co.

Also found a new way into the crawl space from the outside. It had been covered over with insulation. This will eliminate the need to go through the house for the work that must be done down there.

Good progress the last couple of days. The sun has been doing its work making the snow go away. Renee and I have been cutting bigger and bigger trees (see picture of 20 inch diameter, 75' tall tree). Now using a steel cable and the jeep winch to insure trees go the way we want. Most are leaning uphill (due to the wind being that way most of the time) and want to fall that way (into the power lines). Also had to buy a bigger chain saw (more power!!!). Plan to have Xcel drop the line to the house next Wednesday so we can cut the two biggest trees.

Today started out gloomy. Another foot of snow and still snowing. The county wants a survey (more money).


Then the sun came out. We plowed the snow and started cutting trees. Finally some actual progress. Took out three trees today. Waiting on an estimate to cut down the really big ones. Then talked with the county and they agreed no survey was needed!!!!!!!!!!

Well, we were gaining nicely on the snow pack until last night. About 5 new inches. Looks like warmer weather coming up starting Tuesday.

Received and payed for our building permits today. Costs just about as much to get the building permits as it does to build the building. Also finished getting signed contracts for the excavation and concrete. Snow is melting pretty fast. See picture of measuring stick. Has dropped 11" between 4/26 (top mark) and 5/3 (bottom mark).