November 23, 2010. Jackson, Ms. Job Site.

Eleanor and Jim are building a new home. Ken and I have been instrumental in moving the project along, and for that they are grateful. This afternoon we went out to look at the progress. I love constructions sites and the whole process of building a home, so this is just up my alley. Eleanor and Jim are a bit discouraged because the whole permitting process has been lengthy and the foundations ran into problems, which of course costs more money. But now progress will be much quicker I feel sure.

The location for the home is perfect, right at the top of a hill looking out in all directions. The home is being built on the farm owned by Eleanor's family so even though they see no other homes, their relatives live within walking distance. They have designed a lovely large home, and will be built of a fancy type of stone. Eleanor is an artist so the home is designed with a studio for Eleanor and a workshop for Jim all within the confines of the home. Porches front and back on both level will mean outside sitting will always catch the breeze. It is a home for living, for their own four children and relatives, 16 cousins in all.

Jim and Eleanor both are worried with the lack of progress. I tried to get to have them think about joy in the process, always looking long term. I will enjoy watching the progress and await sitting drinking mint juleps on the back porch.