Rob the Builder

This weekend Rob built a deck in the backyard. It's not really a deck, more of a platform I guess but it will serve the same purpose. We knew the house didn't have a deck when we decided to move there, and we didn't think it would be a big deal. But since we've lived here whenever it's warm out we would find ourselves outside eating on the table on the grass, on a sloped backyard. So Rob decided to take some action and he built the platform. The kids were helping... More like running through the frame, luckily no one wiped out in it.

Almost done...

Done! Well except the stain but it's supposed to rain in the next couple days so I'm not sure when that will be done.

You can really see the slope of yard in this pic. The right corner is pretty hazardous right now, we didn't realize it would be that high off the ground. So we haven't decided if we'lll make the stair go further around or put a rail in. I think technically if it has a rail it's a "deck" and then we needed a permit to build it so we will see. I was also thinking of just putting some really large potted plants in the corner to block the fall. Ava is big enough to watch herself over there but when Jake is learning to walk it will be a problem so we'll figure something out!

Now besides the stain it just needs a little kids table, and the umbrella up. The salty air and rain in Hawaii destroyed our old umbrella stand so we need to try to find one that's compatible with the umbrella that goes with set. Ava is also getting a swingset for her birthday (ssshhh don't tell) so the backyard will be a lot more enjoyable this summer!