Well we’re one month into construction and we’re now onto the second floor. We had a bit of a delay a couple of weeks ago when we realized that we were short lumber for the second floor joists, walls and rafters. It seems that the quantity surveyor that drew up the material list from the plans made a significant error. He only included half of what was needed for the second floor. So off to Labasa we went for another shopping trip. It was a good break for Siana and Allan and a chance for them to see somewhere a bit different. Part of our lumber was delivered this week with more to arrive on Monday.
This week the posts for the veranda will be going up and then we’ll really get a good idea of what the house will look like. For now I’m really excited about the space and size of the rooms. It’s one thing to envision the house on paper and then a completely different thing to see the house take shape. Not only will the space inside be awesome the views are incredible, especially the view from the second floor.
Aside from the construction, Siana and Allan have been able to participate in some local Fijian experiences. Arthur took them out on a Bilibili (bamboo raft) to set out the fishing net, unfortunately they didn’t catch any fish that day. They’ve also had the opportunity to plant Kasava, help with the vegetable garden, swimming in the local watering holes, attending a nephew’s wedding, star gazing in the southern sky, and enjoy the local beer.
On top of all this, work on the farm is progressing. Our layer chickens have started to lay eggs this week and we get about 4 to 5 eggs per day. We’re in the process of setting up a larger area for the chickens using the electric poultry fencing that I brought from Canada. The goal is move them to an area that has more natural food so we can decrease the use of commercial feed as well as move the roosters a bit farther from our house. The early morning wake up calls at 4am are a bit much.
Not forgetting, our cat Pepper has just had kittens. We don’t know how many as she hasn’t brought them home yet. Pictures coming soon.
October 8, 2016
Hi Karen,
Looks like your new home (the house) is progressing very well. How large is your sewing room going to be? Bet you can hardly wait to have it finished in order to start quilting again? I have been busy working on my Elaine Quehl’s poppy project for most of the summer, and am beginning the quilting stage of the poppy. However, I can only do a small portion at a time.
I imagine you are very happy to have your daughter and friend helping you with the construction of your home. Looks like the 10:00 am goodies are very tempting!
Sounds like your farming life style is suiting you and you are benefiting from all the harvest. (eggs included)
Bye for now
Dorothy Burke
October 8, 2016
So awesome! I’m enjoying your journey!
October 8, 2016
Karen, love your blog and updates! Fabulous but what a lot of work BUT it is all happening! So so exciting!! Hugs! Linnea