bargeron barn | dirt + concrete.

The first thing we needed to do to get this revitalization under way was to get some concrete poured. The floors were previously dirt, and the concrete had to be set before the walls could start going up. TJ and our (amazing) friend, Methus, had to do a little bit of framing before it could be poured, too, so we could have everything sturdy.

The kids had a BLAST playing in the huuuuuuuuge dirt pile that sat for about a week before it was time to pour! There were lots of extra laundry and baths that week (LOL), and they were both sad when it was time to use it to prep for the concrete. Our kids tend to stick to this motto -- the dirtier they are, the happier they are. And we don't mind a bit!

Once the dirt was down, the framing came next. And after framing, came the concrete! This initial step was 60% of our budget (yep, concrete is that expensive), and we were SO pumped to write that check. We have been saving for this project since last year, and this is our biggest project yet. Meaning, our biggest project ever. To say we're excited and proud and grateful to be able to move forward with it right now doesn't even scratch the surface. Who knew concrete could be so thrilling! LOL!

And there ya have it -- a happy Teesh standing in "Daddy's garage" (as Braxton calls it, although I disapprove of the name). Isn't he the cutest? He's been working on out there for a whole month, and he gets antsy if he goes a few days without anything to do. Side note: Lowe's pick up has been a huge help in making his dreams come true, so shout out to them for making it possible to still shop during this crazy season of life.

I had one condition for the concrete. If we were going to spend that much money on it, we were going to brand it! We *barely* got our hands into the wet mix before it dried, and I *almost* died from the close call. Whew. Thaaaaankfully, the crisis was averted and we got to make it happen. Shout it with me now -- HALLELUJAH! These handprints mean so, so much.

This project means a whole lot, too.

There's a hint in a previous picture of what step comes next. Stay tuned, friends!