There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under heaven: ... a time to tear down and a time to build.

~Ecclesiastes 3:1 & 3~

After several days of rain, we were so thankful to have the sun shining again.

Framing Begins...Andrew lends his talented hands and offers an endless smile

Working on Wall #1: Roger is hard at work while...

Duncan reads the morning paper.

After a few long and hard minutes of measuring and cutting, Micah and Duncan wonder if it's time yet for lunch.

Getting ready to jack up wall #1

Wall #1 up at last!

Laying Block

Devin, Chris, and Mike show off their amazing work.

The boys are learning the valuable process of building.

Considering the multiple and diverse talents possessed by Mr. Carl, we weren't sure from a distance if he was leading the unwilling boys in a Romper Room "Bend and Stretch" exercise, telling them of his earlier body building days, or simply explaining the 110% level of performance he expected from them while on the job. (By the way we offer a special "hello" to Mr. Carl's sisters who are able to see his work through this blog even though they are far away.)

Duncan and Roger -our excellent framers

The bright and warm sun cheers the boys.

Wall #2 goes up.

It is not every day that this kind of opportunity presents itself - learning lessons from a pro.

Papa and Wynn are pals forever.

Hauling wood after cutting up the trees--a team effort.

As a result of Papa's hard work, the dog kennel area is now clean, the aluminum and copper are recycled, and the wood pile has grown.

Pastor Ron baptized Luke in the lake on Sunday afternoon.

Luke and his wonderful family

"How resolved are you to keep hoping in God when unforseen trials discourage you? Will you climb out on the side nearest God's will?...It is a mystery of God's sovereignty that He allows many pilgrims to become discouraged so He can expose their hearts. The next time you feel desperate, perhaps God is searching your heart. Make sure you are bent on remaining faithful to Him and His path for your life. Trust Him; He will surely send His help." ~ Cheryl Ford

Lord, put it in each of our hearts to seek You fervently. Increase our love for You, keep our hearts faithful, and grant us discernment. May our hearts be fixed upon You.

Work continues with the chainsaw converting the felled trees into firewood to use during the swiftly approaching winter.

On Friday, just one day later than planned, the concrete was poured for the foundation slabs.

While the energetic workmen labored at their task Micah and Wynn found unique places to observe the incredible progress.

It proved to be much easier to watch the activity and discuss the process than to actually perform the backbreaking labor.

Even after the foundation looked beautiful to us, there were hours remaining to perfect the slab.

Five of the guys took a moment's break to pose for a photo.

Wanda generously provided sloppy joes, chips, and cupcakes for the crew.

Today the two youngest kids participated in the Wasilla Library's reading program party.

Despite the chilly temperature and the drizzle, they still enjoyed all the games.

The other three took a "break" to join Andrew and Sandy on the ascent of Pioneer Peak.