Framing the Basement

Merry Christmas!  This is how we celebrated our Christmas Eve.  My Brother-in-Law, Dan used to own his own framing company.  He volunteered to help us frame on Christmas Eve, so we took him up on it.  I was amazed at how quickly it went together.  We even had a few neighbors stop by and offer to help.

We started before the sun even came up.  Rayna was so excited and was such a good helper

 Our curious chickens kept an eye on things as well.

Ian finally rolled out of bed to help

Brynlee "helping" uncle Dan.  She is stacking the remnants.

 Dan was so patient with all of his underage helpers

Rick thinks this picture pretty much sums up the day.  Dan working, with Rick looking like he's helping.

This was the most exciting part for me - watching them tear down a portion of the bearing wall to open up the room.

Installing the new weight-bearing beam. 

February update:  We have the framing done, the heating and air ducts installed, and a plumber scheduled to come out on the 18th.  My goal is to be completely finished and livable by the end of April