Soffits Prep

Spent yesterday helping Nobu with the soffits. A coat of ivory paint will add a layer of weather proofing and hopefully make them last for over a decade.

Cousin Phill Comes to Japan to Jump Start House Systems

(from left) Phill, Jamila, Prof. Fujita and Michiko

planting clover seeds on East side of house

Following in the footsteps of Olivia and David's visit (story to come), my cousin Phill arrived from Jersey, UK, to spend almost a month helping to put the house in shape.

During his time Phil hooked up several new electric lines, introduced a system of home automation, did plumbing jobs, solved logistical and engineering problems of all kinds and helped to keep me sane through this stressful time. Can never thank Phill enough for the help he gave and time he put into the project.

This video diary documents some of the developments through the month of August.

Electric hook up from the street comes in to give house full 220v power

View of the house from the street.

Phill fits mini-tank hot-water heater under island sink.

Electrical and plumbing tool boxes help the jobs along.

Main kitchen sink plumbed and electric to the trash mincer.

Living room looking like a living room for the first time. Chairs courtesy of the Fujitas!

View from the roof terrace (east).

View from the roof terrace (south).

View from the roof terrace (south).

View from the roof terrace (north).

View from the roof terrace down onto the make-shift decking.

Phill under the floor. Not a pleasant place to be.

Trap door in Japanese room.

Emerging from hooking up electric wires under floor.

Cedar Siding Almost Done!

Only day two and Nobu-san has almost completed the cedar siding on the north wall. Looking great!

German Instant Hot Water in and Working

Proud of myself--and thanks to my cousin Phill--for this one. Now plumbed in and working.

North Wall Cedar Siding on its Way

Nobu-san started the cedar siding today and got about half way through! Go Nobu!

Daisuke Helps Net the Foundation Vents

Hannah and Daisuke helped on the house today. Many thanks!

Stairs!

The stairs go in opening up the 2nd floor!