The chimney for the fireplaces is another big project that was begun this week. One thing I've quickly learned about construction is that it involves A LOT of inspections! So, of course, construction of the chimney is no exception. First the concrete footings must be poured. But before they are poured the framing and rebar must be inspected. That's where we are in the process. Once the footings are poured (and inspected) the real construction of the chimney and fireplaces can begin.
We want the fireplace to be the focal point of the main floor which means it needs to be substantial due to the ceiling height and the open floor plan. We've scoured the internet for pictures to assist us in planning the size as well as the type of stone we will use. We can hardly wait to see it come together.
As I've said before, there are so very many decisions involved in this project! Since I am a classic over-thinker it can be daunting at times. I think creatively so I decided that making some design boards would help me to be more organized and decisive. I've also enlisted help from some wonderful designers which has certainly eased my anxiety about it all. Things like cabinet design and furniture choices are much easier thanks to them. That said, I'm proud of myself this week because I finally pulled the trigger on some lighting choices that had been particularly hard for me,
Along with all the human workers involved in our adventure there are a few fluffy and furry characters as well. Before we ever decided to make Bethel Barn our residence there were probably close to one hundred occupants. Anytime you walked through you would find a mosaic of bird droppings on the floor and dozens of sweet barn swallows flying in and out. They've never been a problem and, in fact, they help tremendously to keep the mosquito population low. Now that we've closed up most of their usual entrances they are definitely fewer in number. But to my surprise they are not giving up their residence so easily. With only a few ways in and out they have still managed to build around twenty nests. I have always been intrigued by them, but now I find myself in awe of their determination and resilience, not to mention the instinct to come back to this place year after year.
While the swallows flit about another furry friend makes her way to the barn every morning and takes her place among the workers as a self-appointed supervisor. Pearl is an Anatolian, Great Pyrenees mix who weighs at least 120 pounds. She's a gentle giant and she has become the mascot of the barn. You can't help but smile when you walk in and see her standing guard over everyone.
(Pearl and just a few of the swallow nests)