Dean Campbell of Campbell Grading brought his son Derrick out to Bridgewater for the day. Derrick cranked up the track loader and went to work carving out a nice level spot for the new pool. Next they will cart off the debris and bring in some clean fill to finish shaping the foundation for the pool, decking, and wheelchair pathway.
They're baaaaaack! The great team from Absolute Tree Experts returned to clear the path for the 18-wheeler and crane needed to transport the swimming pool. As usual, Oliver, Sandy, and Johnny did a masterful job.
Great job with the pedaling, Nadia! Next we'll work on steering and brakes! 
Stephen Plumb and his wife Julie were kind enough to personally deliver our new (used!) ATV so we can start cutting some trails for the horses. Best of luck to the Plumbs on their upcoming California adventure! Here's to great job opportunities and a wonderful life out West!
Ivan is becoming quite skilled with the backhoe and front end loader, under the watchful eye of his father. His help and enthusiasm have been invaluable! 
Wendy Garland, a local occupational therapist and a good friend, stopped by Bridgewater for a tour and to inquire about training in hippotherapy (therapy on horseback). Wendy learned that when you ask the question, "Do you need help with anything?" the answer is always a resounding "YES!"
Bob Smith of Cabarrus Pools drove down to Bridgewater on Saturday to discuss the options for the pool and spa. Bob is helping us create a beautiful, therapeutic setting for our kids and their families. 
Mary Hyatt of Rinehart Realty completed a successful closing on Diane's old house this week. Now we have the funds to proceed with our swimming pool! Mary is also the realtor who worked for over two years to help us find our current property at Bridgewater. Mary was willing to slog through mud and weeds and crawl under barbed wire fences in the rain to help us find the perfect place for our children. We can't thank you enough, Mary!
Pete from Dixie Exterminating came out today to check out the barn. Cleared it for termites but said we have a resident black snake or two. Nice. Better in the barn than the house. Of course Tom Hardin of Hardin Pest Control already took care of those snakes in the attic . . . relocation program, don't ya' know. Exterminators LOVE black snakes, "They eat mice and other poisonous snakes, Diane!" 
As we thin the wooded area near the pool we strive to make the best use of the trees that were sacrificed. "Free BTUs!" says Jennifer as she loads the logs into her truck.
No, not the political stump, the actual wooden variety! Dan, Ivan, and Diane have been keeping "Big Red" busy as they clear the play areas and pool site.
Diane cooking on the griddle reminds me most of: a) Rachel Ray, b) Wolfgang Puck, or c) SpongeBob Squarepants. Yes, "c" is correct.
Bobby Howell designs some lightweight aluminum orthotic horseshoes for Lady. The wedged design with a roll over toe keeps her in better alignment and eases her arthritis. Don't worry-- Bobby says she can keep riding as long as she enjoys it! The exercise is good for her. What's next? TheraTogs and a little Total Motion Release (TMR)? We'll keep you posted!
The new pool area still looks a little parched at this point. We are waiting for our final landscape plans to be completed to finish the site preparation. Hopefully the pool construction will begin in early July based on funding availability. 
standard golf, but players use frisbee type discs instead of balls and clubs. Everyone can play and anyone can win at disc golf!
There is a little bit of difference in our "before" and "after" photos, yes? The workshop is starting to come together as we organize all of our tools and materials. We have a team of skilled parents who can help with all kinds of construction tasks and equipment repair for the kids. No more waiting on vendor availability to fix that wheelchair or stander!
Summer in the South is here! We are so thrilled with the delicious peaches from our own trees at Bridgewater! This Fall we hope to add pear and apple trees to the mix. Mmmm, mmmm, good! 
Yana and Olya picked peaches and groomed both Lady and Muffin. Looks like a happy pony to me! Thank you, girls!
There is nothing like a motivated teenager to help get the work done! Ivan Hills spends yet another Saturday helping with mowing, pasture management, and construction of the garage workshop. Ivan likes to drive (fast), operate power equipment, and learn new things. That's a winning combination on a farm!
Students from Winthrop University, led by the dynamic duo of Dominique and Victor, scrubbed out our front fountain. After re-locating a resident bull frog to the lake, we were able to bring in some beautiful koi and pond plants. Hugs and high fives to Rona Marren and her daughter Kylie for our newest fin-tastic friends! They are great!
Burke "the Fisher King" O'Neill insists that Diane relax and cast the lure out a few times at the end of the day. Good idea, Burke!
"Have chainsaw, will travel!" Larry Copeland spent a strenuous Saturday at Bridgewater clearing along the lake to make it more accessible for fishing as well as for our planned wheelchair path. Miss Kathi risked life and limb to help! Is that poison ivy in the burn pile . . .?