Deck - almost done

The deck itself went up in no time, but the finishing touches seem to be taking forever.  I spent all day building the stair rail, capping the deck rails, and staining all the cedar.  I also stained the treated posts and beam.  It looks really good with everything matching.  Now I just need to put some fascia boards on the side of the stairs and figure out what I want to do for the top part of the stair rail.

Usable deck

I would like to say a BIG thanks to my dad for all his help with the deck.  We got much more done in one weekend than I thought we would.  We completed everything but the railing and a few fascia pieces.  I started on the railing today and got it built around the perimeter of the deck.  It was not near as fun working on it by myself.  However, now the kids can go out and play, and they really seem to enjoy it.

Deck progress after day 2

These first 2 pictures are actually the end of day 1.

Our back yard is a mud pit, but we're making progress.

We took a dinner break during the tornado warning then went back out to lay some deck boards till dark.

Start of deck

Mom and Dad came out to visit and of course we put them to work right away as usual.  Dad is helping me with the deck while mom is putting some of the finishing touches on the mudroom.

Recent happenings in the shop

New stand for my lathe.

Tiny goblet

Pen for Mimi made from ebonized honey locust

Planer workout

Dollhouse lamp, yes, that's a dixie cup.

Rack for lathe tools

Future desktop for mud room part 2... it's supposed to be 'rustic', don't knock my knots and nail holes.