Tree House

My oldest brother, Tom, and his wife, Sam, are building a tree house. Most of the work is being done by their kids and grandkids. 

The supports were up when we arrived at the lake last week.

Then five 24-foot steel beams arrived.

It was fun watching the progress last Monday. There was lots of discussion and cooperation. 

Lifting the beams into place was a great team effort and included the use of a tractor and pulleys.

While the beams were going up and being welded into place, a niece began building the platform for the steps. I have some very skilled relatives!

Great nephews got in on the action too.

That's Ray on the ladder. They were measuring beams to get the overhang even.

SIL Sam went up to check the view.

Today they began the flooring. Our nephews worked a while;

then the great-nephews were given instruction and took over! It was fun to watch the progress.

I sat on the screened porch with my brother Tom and watched the action. Tom is disabled (he's a Vietnam Veteran with Agent Orange problems) and can't help. However he can supervise and is in on all of the discussions. I heard today that there is a possibility of a lift being built so he can enjoy the tree house too.

Here is a picture of the cabin with the treehouse on the left. It will not block anyone's view of the lake which is amazing!

And here is a view of the lake from the floor of the treehouse.

When the 12' by 24' base is covered, meaning the floor is finished, the work will stop for now. Eventually this base will be expanded back towards the house a few feet and the walls and roof will be built. 

We are headed home tomorrow. Hopefully the next time we come, the treehouse will be finished.