Construction has finally begun! Last Thursday night, two family members and I, took off to San Diego, bought some supplies (Thanks White Cap for the discount!) and crossed the border. When we arrived at the site the retaining wall work was partially completed and there was still a mound of earth on the site. We were able to fix that with some quick tractor work and begun the layout with strings immediately. We found out that the grading was not even close to flat which resulted with the construction of a two foot stem wall on the east side. We also found out how quickly us spoiled gringos regretted bringing an ice chest and made repeated trips down the hill to the OXXO (the Mexican equivalent of 7-11) to buy cold water.
We were also very thankful to receive help from the Ramirez family. They helped with some of the escavting, form construction, and painting the 2×6 forms which we plan on using for our roof.
We tried hard to catch up to our Saturday pour schedule, working until dark each night, but alas we realized that it would have to be a Sunday pour. This was a problem because Sunday is a day of rest and to bring cement truck with pump would result in some major overtime pay. This crux had us really concerned with our tiny foundation budget which had already been surpassed from our addition form work and materials due to site conditions.
As Jaimie and I spoke of this major problem, one of the native laborers step up and said that they could mix the concrete and carry it up with five gallon buckets, all we need to do was rent a mixer. This was wonderful news because earlier that day a local resident came by and told me that he worked with concrete and had access to a mixer. The following day I was thoroughly impressed by the strength and stamina of this Mexican crew. They mixed 3.5 cubic yards of concrete and carried it all on their shoulders up the hill by the bucket full!! They completed this work within three hours. I am very thankful for their hard work.
We will now be returning to complete construction. We are still collecting materials and are grateful for any donations or discounts (thanks Michelle at Habitat for Humanity Restore in Sacramento) I am also very pleased with the amount of volunteers that will be sacrificing their own time and money to come down and work in the sweltering sun. Many of them being former studio comrades from the class of 04 at U.C. Berkeley. I would also thank all of our friends and family who have made contributions and still encourage other to continue to help.
Thanks to my Papa and Primo for thier back breaking work primo2.jpg
We will attempt to update the site during construction so come back soon and see it happen!
