It's Marathon Time (again)

After successfully completing marathons in Milwaukee, Seattle, Houston, and Lake Geneva, I'll be running in the Portland Marathon this Sunday (October 1). The race starts at 7:00 a.m. Pacific time. You can check out Ben's Running Log during the race to see how I'm doing. If all goes well, I'll cross the line in less than four hours and set a new personal record.

Welcome!

I've sent out notices to a lot of people about my e-mail address change, and in the notice, I also included this web site's address. So, if you're here for the first time, welcome! I try to update the site at least once every two weeks. Feel free to click on any of the buttons on the top navigaton bar or the right-hand column, and have a look around!

Deck Photos! Yay!

The wait is over.

HERE are photos of the deck construction, along with two shots of another project we did last weekend. Enjoy!

The deck is done!

I'll have a whole bunch of pictures tonight or tomorrow.

Deck Progress (Monday)

Most of the boards are in, and we're cutting pieces for the railing. At the same time, my dad is here helping with the stair assembly. I probably shouldn't be taking the time to post this. Back to work.

Deck Progress (Sunday)

Most of the board fasteners and railing posts are in place, and we're putting the boards in now. Rain, stay away!

Deck Progress (Saturday)

Dave and Jeff did a tremendous job with all of the framework today. Jenelle and Pam stained the underside of each of the deck boards, ensuring that we won't have any problems with the deck rotting from the inside out. I helped with a variety of tasks, including hauling some excess soil away from the deck area and into a pile at the far corner of the yard. We're in great shape to get the boards laid tomorrow.

The fun begins

This weekend is a time for exciting changes. Jenelle's parents and brother have flown in from Oregon to build a deck for us. As of right now, we're pouring concrete in the post holes. I'll try and post a new picture to the BenCam every so often.

At the same time, my dad is working on mounting our new TV on the wall. He's already drilled a lot of the holes for the cable, and his electrical expertise is certainly coming in handy.

We are extremely thankful for everyone who helps us out each and every day. From the simplest gesture of kindness to major favors, we appreciate it all very much.

Wednesday, September 13: Happy Birthday, Aunt Gail!
Tomorrow (September 16): Happy Birthday, Dad!