June 21st update

All of Gerardo's hard work continues. All of the essential X's are done, and work to build the second level floor structure is underway.



Rob took some FANTASTIC pictures in his update to me. I think this first one really shows the entry patio. Putting this in perspective, you can see the new casita, and just to the right the lip that will be the bottom of the stairs going up. Then, about 45-degrees to the right is where the step off will be for the stairway going down to the bonus level.



Once again, we want to solicit ideas on what to do with that space. We could make a separate rentable living unit out of it. Or we can make something like a screened room (eg: HUGE). Or we could add a fourth bedroom and bath, along with bodega down there, and change the first floor bodega to a bathroom for the second downstairs bedroom.





This second photo shows our guys building. Honestly, I'm not sure what the tarp is for, but suspect that it has to do with dealing with the rain. As our northern summer continues, down in Costa Rica the days will continue to have more rain until the high point; October when one can 'enjoy' rather amazing quantities of rainfall.



This final picture shows the second level floor structure build underway.



A week from now Dick and Jim will be in Costa Rica again - and work will begin building the roof. It is also on this trip that we have to select and order and/or purchase the water heater, appliances, air conditioning system, kitchen cabinets, sinks, toilets, faucets, bath cabinets (or design for build) - etc... We have selected the floor tile, but on this trip will need to place our order to ensure it is on hand when needed.



We will stay in Parrita this time - in a hotel Rob and Kent have suggested. So we're in for quite an adventure this trip! We'll be able to stay with Rita and Steve at the beginning of our trip. We're looking forward to that - and their dogs Topo and Rata. Make a note to yourself that http://www.casabellarita.com/ will take you to their B&B website. We can't recommend it strongly enough as your arrive in Costa Rica!



So, all for this post. Jim travels to San Diego this week - then returns just in time to repack, enjoy Brian and Mia's wedding, and then hop our Continental flight to San Jose, Costa Rica. Our very best to all of you!





Ricardo y Jeeeem


ps - Jim set up a NEW BLOG which will set about to give the history BEHIND this construction project. Part 1, 2 and 3 are posted; others to come over the next several weeks. Link is: http://jimdicktdacasainthebeginning.blogspot.com/