August… it begins in Guysborough County with some of the warmest temps of the year, but by months end reveals with smoky sunrises on the water, breezy afternoons, and single digit overnight temperatures. A time to make hay before the day to day grind of school returns. A perfect chance to reconnect with friends and family!
Self isolating, due to Monica’s return from BC, I began August with all the supplies I could get in prior and two weeks of Janie, Monica and I picking at the addition. Peter dropped off several loads of materials (ie. Asphalt Shingles) which further supported the work. At the end of the first week the facia trim was on and painted, while the roof had starter trim, ice shield, tar paper and shingles (tarred) completed! Tricky weave of shingles blending in existing and new tabs. I was happy to cross that hurdle.
Work continued externally during our self-isolation, while I also managed a much needed coat on the camp floor! All shined up. Cladding for the addition became a topic of discussion… what to use, getting it purchased and onsite… big tasks! Fortunately, after some texting with Andrew, a solution presented itself. Andrew lives close to a business that mills eastern cedar, and was looking for a trip! What was an idea quickly became a truck with NB plates, and Andrew, Andy and Rod arriving mid-August at the parking lot with a truck load of cedar clapboard and trim! Unbelievable, as we were able to carry the materials in (Peter & Monica pitched in too), ferry down the lake, and re-stack for installation. Ales, a huge grub up and a relaxing evening rounded out a flying trip… much indebted to the whole group for the support! 🙏
But the help didn’t end there! By August 16th Dad, Curtis and I had the exterior complete, with the cedar installed and the chipboard protected. Sharp looking addition. Dad and I dropped the screen door on the building, and continued fussing with trim and tying up loose ends. Boys were great to give me a lift with this tough part of the project.
Yet another opportunity took shape on Aug 21-23rd… in the form of screens. Scott had offered his space in Port Williams to design and construct the seven screens required to enclose the space, and officially make the addition a screen porch. I grabbed Darren and off we went. It was a highly productive weekend, where we purchased materials, milled lumber, designed & constructed screens (with Scott’s new pocket jig), and primed/painted each. Huge task and impressive end product (Not to mention a great weekend away with the boys). So pleased!