Bittersweet

It was a busy day at Camp Freedom last Friday. We were able to finish the chow house. It looks great and is going to make camping there so much more enjoyable! We installed a counter, bench and several shelves and hooks. We will be able to cook and clean up our meals out of the wind and weather, as well as have a place to store all our gear. After finishing up the work, we started to break down camp for the winter. It's frustrating to finally have everything set up just right and then have to pack up! The foundation is in and it looks great. I am so relieved we didn't try and do this part ourselves! The contractor installed about 20 concrete piers that will eventually support the cabin. He also laid down a thick plastic vapor barrier and covered it with several inches of gravel. Seeing the foundation made the whole cabin building project seem much more real. It was easier to visualize the size of the building and imagine what it will actually be like. While we were inspecting our progress, it was hard not to reminisce that only a year ago, the only thing on the property was a fire ring. In one year, we've put in the driveway, the outhouse, Fort Awesome and the Chow House. Unfortunately, we were forced to admit that the wetland walkway was a failure. With all the fall flooding we had, the whole thing was swamped. We did, however, make good use of all the lumber. It was reused as the siding for the Chow House making the total cost of that building about $50. We decided to put the dock project on the back burner and revisit it after the cabin is completed. Thinking about all we've accomplished this year makes me realize that it's good that we are forced by the climate to take a break. We need to rest and save our money - it's going to be a busy spring!