The start of another big project

Randy doesn't agree with the "light breakfast" theory; he fixed us sausage, egg and cheese sandwhichs on big hoagie rolls. Then Randy and Aaron drove to Home Depot for some things while Randy R started mudding over the million screws that were set in the drywall yesterday, pausing as needed to set screws deeper. 

When the guys got back, they unloaded a bunch of materials and all three started working on putting in a front porch for us. Randy R grabbed a shovel and started digging the post holes. 

Meanwhile Randy and Aaron cut the heavy duty cardboard forms for the footing  - we got two from each one. 

They carefully measured between the two post forms on one side to be sure the posts would be in the correct position.

 Then they dug out the other side.

 That was followed by a whole lot of measuring, leveling, and adding supports.

In order to be sure it was as square as possible, they decided to move one post in a little, even though it required redigging the hole.

It looks kinda redneck at this point, but it's the framework for a great porch!

Each post hole was filled with concrete; we ended up using 11 bags.

As the concrete set, they carefully mounded it around the post so water will run away from it. The wood is treated but there is no sense in letting water stand around it.

That was all that could be done on the porch today, and Randy had to get ready to teach his Financial Peace University class. But Aaron and Randy R weren't ready to quit for the day. Randy R fixed the remaining screw holes and sanded over them. Aaron installed a 2x12 along the post in the center of the room, then they both worked on finishing that area. They installed a 1x2 header, then drywalled under it. 

The only thing left to do today was cut and install drywall pieces where the ceilings between the living room and the new room are not level. There is more to do, but it's easy for me to see how great this is going to look! 

Since Randy wasn't home to prepare dinner, we enjoyed left over lasagna, steak, and bread pudding.