The weatherman wasn’t overly optimistic this morning with showers in the forecast. Nonetheless, we were all systems go as our crew planned to roughen the surface by seeding the freshly towelled concrete with various-sized stones. Ian and his crew from Accura Concrete expertly placed and towelled twenty-five cubic meters of concrete. We broke out the pressure washers and exposed the surface as soon as the concrete had set enough to walk on. About halfway through the task, the skies opened up and we experienced an unusual torrential downpour. No harm was done as the concrete had already hardened sufficiently and our crew was bundled up in rain gear. It was a fabulous day and by our regular quitting time, the sidewalks were in place and our tools were tucked away.

Things are happening at the Hazelnut Inn! After a whole lot of work by the crew finalizing the grades, packing the ground and building the forms we are now ready to pour the curbs and sidewalks. The visual changes are profound and the excitement is high! Stay tuned for the concrete progress report tomorrow…

Henry is always eager to help. Although he’s only five years old, he’s been around long enough to know the difference between being kept busy and doing meaningful work. As we worked to prepare the driveway at the Hazelnut Inn there was plenty for Henry to do. He has his own Henry-sized shovel and wheelbarrow to move the gravel. Raking and helping build the sidewalk forms are also tasks he can assist with. When it came time to tamp the gravel into place Henry was first in line to steer the heavy packing machine. Watching Henry work so diligently this afternoon reminded me of when his father was young and helped me at every turn. Peter was my constant companion as I worked and often my dad, George, was there as well. Projects sometimes took a little longer when young Peter was on hand but having him there and helping was well worth the effort. It is a family tradition.