Clearing the Septic Field

Well after almost 3 years our septic system was finally approved by the state. Perhaps that should have quote around "approved" given all of the adventures. But ultimately, we were able to get our fully traditional septic system.

This is most of the area cleared for our septic drain field. Some of us think that this planned septic system could support a small apartment complex, but at least I can relax knowing that it will last well beyond our use.

June's French Drain

We put in a French drain to make sure that any rain water would not reach either our house or our septic field. Obviously I am the hardest working Bennett and dug the whole thing by hand....

Here is a partial view of the whole thing, or at least before we put the gravel, slotted pipe and covered it back up.

Oh, wait - I guess this was actually the primary digging implement. But all-in-all, the French drain was finished in under a week. Goodwins and Bennetts helped out with this wonder!

Metal Trim and Siding

Long-overdue update. Wrapping up skirting, metal trim and finally siding. We like the colors.

Metal Roof

Started to close in the building.


Mike and his son Sam came over to help with the roof. All in all it took about 6 hours.

Lofts and Upper Roof

Here is the loft that goes down the middle of the building. Notice the lovely painted walls thanks to the Goodwins.

OK - we actually have 2 lofts...

The loft made the upper rafters possible to reach.

Moving Up

Starting to put up the rafters on the lower roof.



Here are all rafters on the right-side lower roof.

Then covered with tar paper.

Painting the Chicken House and Starting the Shed

With the Chicken House enclosed, we painted the OSB and plywood to protect from weather. We'll buy all of the siding later - at one time hopefully.


Here are the first walls of the shed.


Here is a shot of the 2 buildings.