Patio update 3 – nearing completion

Here’s the latest from the patio. As you can see, all of the full-size stones are in place now. Another few blocks to finish off the edges and it’ll be ready to go.

Last weekend was spent breathing in stone dust as I cut odd-shaped pieces to fill in around the edges. At one point, I was worried I was going to run into a roadblock when the hammer-chisel method provided unpredictable results.

Dad to the rescue. He whipped out the circular saw, and I made a quick trip to Lowe’s for a diamond-tipped blade, which the internet promised would cut through stone and skin alike with no trouble whatsoever. After a quick backyard tutorial where I learned some survival tips (adjust the blade with the power off; keep the cord under control), someone might have confused me with Bob Vila if they didn’t look close enough.

Other than being deaf for two days thanks to all the noise, I made it through with all 10 fingers. Success.

Dangerous power tools cutting through stone with a cloud of dust enveloping the back yard and sparks flying everywhere. Of course, I made it all weekend without getting any action shots of the manliest thing I’ve ever done. Go figure.

Anyway, I’ve the bags and piles of materials are finally cleared from the driveway, just in time to bring out the snow blower.

We’re checking the schedules for a Saturday afternoon party next weekend to celebrate the near-finished state of backyard affairs, so plan to stop over in the afternoon on the 20th for some drinks and patio sitting.