As with any home, there's always a list of projects. Whether they are small little tweaks or somewhat significant projects. We are always dreaming and wishing. One thing I had put on the list was an outside area to do yoga. Dreams of peaceful warrior amongst the swaying oak and pine trees was what I envisioned. We decided on a platform that could also serve a dual purpose as not only a place to do yoga but as a tent base (extra bedroom when the guest list exceeds the available space.) We decided on a 10x10 wooden platform that would overlook the Jefferson National Forest which is immediately out our back yard. The materials were delivered by the local building supply store during the week and we had decided to devote the entire weekend to completing this project. With a bit of slow start on Saturday, we were able to get it framed out by end of day and put the finishing touches on it Sunday morning. I love it when a project goes according to plan. Its been a great place for morning yoga and we were able to spend a couple of rainy July nights in our new tent on it when we had friends up for the Independence Day weekend. 

    Over breakfast this morning, I realized its been two years this month since we moved into Steel Nest. (And, almost two years since I updated this blog!) Here and now, I'm making a commitment to update this blog at least once a month in the coming years.

    Our small cabin, perched upon what we call a mountain top, has become our home away from home. I almost feel like we should call it home as we have been spending almost every weekend here since it was completed. Spending the week in the city working, only gives you a few hours each day to spend at home (other than sleeping.) When you sprint to the mountains after work on Friday and have the entire weekend here, it really does become the place where you spend your leisure hours, go on adventures, and spend the most quality time with each other. It has really become more like home and I find when we skip a weekend or two, I really do start to miss it.

    We've also been able to lure many friends to make the two hour trek to enjoy some time in the mountains as well. Whether its kayaking down the New River, winding around the Blue Ridge Pkwy to visit wineries, or attending our favorite musical festival - FloydFest, we have truly had some great experiences over the last 24 months. Today, its cold and blustery outside and I am able to enjoy reading a book by the fire and watching it snow outside. Truly, exactly what I had imagined for a mountain retreat. Stay tuned and I will give you some updates on happenings at Steel Nest and hopefully a few updates on what has transpired over the past 2 years as we have lived and learned from our time here.