March 09, 2009

Designing, Step By Step

Starting to spend more time at the lake as weather warms and beckons. Always lots to do to prep for summer visitors and this year we've taken on quite an ambitious project which will need to be finished before really warm, humid weather takes the fun out of it.

You've seen me brag about our side yard steps (first pic) which I designed and J built... it was a 'make it up as you go' project, just trying to make the top and bottom meet in the middle.


Well... as the old hillside steps at the lake began to crumble, I wanted more and more to replace them with the same type of floating step/platform. Talked with a contractor but the lumber itself is going to be such a big cost, we decided to go ahead and give it our best shot, starting it ourselves, seeing how far we could go before calling in help. It's easy digging, no rocks and so far, no big roots. J is in pretty decent shape, thanks to a lifetime of swimming and taking care of himself. Though I'm not as flexible as I'd wish, I enjoy pushing myself when the weather is nice and the work is voluntary.

So what does this have to do with art? It has everything to do with staying in good form both mentally and physically. When I know we'll be at the lake for part of the week, I automatically spend more available time in the studio at home. It's good discipline to know your time isn't infinite and you must make the most of it. Otherwise, there'd always be tomorrow...

4 comments:

Tracy Helgeson said...

Karen, you are so awesome to be taking on this project. I have much admiration for you!

Karen Jacobs said...

Aw, shucks! We'll raise a glass when it's finished... when that will be is yet to be determined.

Annette Bush said...

You always seem to be good at keeping studio time as first priority without making others feel like second stringers! We should all take note!
A

Karen Jacobs said...

Do I? Thanks... though second stringer position seems very comfortable to me. Got two g-kids all week and it's supposed to be warming and clear... how much work we'll get done remains to be seen.