For what seems a very long time I have been following two building projects here in the Blue Mountains’ village of Blackheath. I am beginning to wonder whether either of them will ever reach completion.
The first of the intrepid owner builders is Mr Satin Bowerbird, of No. 1 Upper Memorial Park.
The second is Mr Bob Conolly of No. 10 Pope’s Glen, who happens to be (very) closely related to me.
Now I don’t mean to criticize, but it’s the perfectionist mentality and the constant tinkering that creates a problem for these ‘go it alone males’. They simply do not believe that anyone could do the job well enough to meet their exacting standards. And besides, why waste money when you are perfectly capable of mastering every (well nearly every ) trade yourself? Carpentry? Not a problem. Sorry for the poor photo quality, he was working late, as is his wont.
At least he waited until the clear light of morning for the more delicate task of placement.
NO ASPECT OF THE HOUSE DEFEATS OUR OWNER BUILDERS
A little more work on the roof required! Did either of you think of employing outside help for this? No, of course you didn’t.
Bob says Mr S. should have been wearing non-slip Dunlop Volleys, the roofer’s footwear of choice for decades.
A quick break for some lunch. I think that’s a segment of orange Mr Bowerbird stole from a picnicker in the park. Bob rarely comes inside to eat, even though the studio we are living in is only a couple of metres away.
Both builders agree that you can never have too many exposed beams.
Well done for getting to this point chaps..
When a younger fellow comes to look, and learn.
Work jackets tend to get a bit scruffy after a while;
Of course the whole object is to lure a patient lady in, and naturally the hope is that she gives the nod of approval!
A seasonal toast to Bob.
What about an aerial view of the whole property?
Although I jest, both builders are very dear to my heart!
ONE-UPMANSHIP
For both man and bird, there is always some blighter who has to go bigger and fancier than anyone else. A Blue Mountains bower neighbour (a member of the Strong family) is even laying shag-pile carpet (bit much that green!) and is adding on a wing. An over achieving owner builder without a doubt.
It’s the same the world over. everyone thinks bigger is better!
Click the link for more on Mr S. Bowerbird and his appealing abode in Memorial Park.
haha, you’re pushing your luck. That Man is a bloomin’ marvel!
Bob or Mr Bowerbird? Haha…well he was allowed to read it first.
Beaut fun watching both bird and human.
Lucky my darling husband/home builder has a sense of humour Simon.