Fog, a Flicker and a Full Year

The flicker was a well-behaved visitor
and didn't peck the timbers or break any windows.

A thick fog envelops the house and a flicker pays a visit—Erik says birds often fly in through the open front door. Fortunately, the woodpecker didn't run into any windows (that could be trouble) and he got out of the house safely.

As we put this post together, we realized it's been a full year since the Eye On Orcas blog was started on October 28, 2009. So much has happened, and so much more to come! Imagine—a year from now, we'll be settled into the house and the blog will be following the progress of barn construction...

Heat Tubes and New Views

Looking into the stair tower from the kitchen.

View from the landing into the living space.

And the view from the loft. These radiant heat tubes will be toasty warm.

Looking down on the cedar deck from a perch on the balcony.

The solar cable conduit leads to where the solar panels will be –
Erik graded and seeded around the concrete piers.

A glance inside at the kitchen area and loft above.

And a closeup of the loft framing.

The past couple of months have revolved around rough electrical and plumbing work. The electrical inspection is complete, and most of the plumbing has been approved as well – just a few minor issues to take care of and the plumbing and framing inspections will be behind us.

In addition, the solar rough-in/inspection is done; concrete footers were poured to support the panel array and the conduits are ready.

The stair tower is taking shape, and the deck looks inviting!

August 24: Treating the Timbers

The oil finish penetrates and protects the wood from weather and mildew.

Joists were treated as well.

It's almost ready for decking!

To preserve the exposed timbers supporting the deck, we're using a penetrating oil finish which nourishes and protects the wood.Beautiful!