Overdue update

 I haven't provided an update on construction in awhile because it's difficult to see the the progress in photos. The electrician, plumber, and HVAC crews are all working on putting their infrastructure inside the walls of the house before the construction crew can close things up with sheetrock and drywall.

Below is a relatively current shot of the facade. Our front door is currently being constructed, and once it is finished and installed the brick masons will come back and fill in the gaps in the brick.

 This is an early shot of the HVAC tubing laid out before it was installed in the ceiling.

These are plumbing lines - red to signify hot water lines and blue for cold water. I can't remember where this photo was taken - maybe the utility room?

 HVAC lines installed in the ceiling above the second story.

I have been on two excursions in the last month with our contractor. One was to make our kitchen and game room/bar area appliance selections. I ended up selecting about eight pieces overall (oven, refrigerator, dishwasher, etc.), and pictured below are the beverage center (mini-fridge) for the game room and a the oven (not the one we will have, but similar) for the kitchen.

Last week we took our first visit to a stone yard. I understand this is the first of many visits as it sometimes takes awhile to find the best piece of granite/marble/stone for the kitchen and focus area countertops. I was surprised by how easy this visit was and about how I quickly formed opinions about the different counter types available.

These products are all natural, and it's amazing to think that the Earth can produce such fine specimens as this. It's really interesting to see the different patterns up close!

In other news, I wrapped up my spring semester on campus and remain busy with teaching my online course for UNC. I am also prepping an intense course that I will teach during the June mini-semester on campus. Prayers for me as I find enough energy to limp my way into July where I will enjoy a much-needed break from academic life for a month before transitioning into fall. 

The kids had their last day of school on Friday, where John wrapped up 5th grade and Amelia finished 8th - she is headed to high school next year (gulp!). 

Pictured below is (1) - John performing in his orchestra class mini-recital last week. John hated orchestra class (the kids are required to conduct a rotation in band, art, orchestra and choir during the the 5th grade) but I thought he did a great job learning the instrument. All kids select one elective to pursue during their 6th grade year, and John chose band!

(2) - Amelia was recognized during the  8th Grade Awards Ceremony. She received awards for her group and individual work in Honor Band and All-Region, plus she earned a superior class award for work in 8th grade TAG Science.

(3) - In addition to a full calendar of basketball, John finished his spring baseball season with the Boston Red Sox team. John had the opportunity to pitch this year (pictured below) and he really enjoyed this experience.