Although it seems that the barn was still used not long before we bought the property, nature was quick to reclaim its ground.
To be honest, the evening we toured the property, I stayed away. It was too scary for me.
Earlier that day, I had my first encounter with a banana spider which I thought was a Halloween decoration, until it climbed up to the roof. The barn seemed like the perfect place to be if you are a large Texas size spider. It turns out they are “good” spiders and over the last few months, I have learned to tolerate them.
Anyway, I was right! When we came back a few weeks later as homeowners, we found that the place was full of spiders, of all sizes as well as a few tenants: 2 turkey vultures, a skunk, some rats, wasps …Well bugs, and not-so-pleasant stuff.
Taking a closer look at things, we realized the barn was going to need some serious TLC before it could host proper tenants.
To keep the AG exemption on the property, we needed to get livestock back on the property.
First on the agenda was a good cleaning, some structural reinforcements, then some new siding, a door adjustment, and finally new electrical.
Under Butters’ supervision, music blaring, and snacks in the pockets, we got to work. Tools came out of storage and weather permitting, we were out there from breakfast to sundown.
Until then, our motto (mostly mine) was: “1 project at a time. You start it. You finish it!”
Well, let me tell you: WEATHER!!
The weather decides whether or not you finish a project today, tomorrow, next month, or next season!
By Mid-February, the barn was finally in good functioning shape and ready to welcome our first farm animals.
I am so glad you are documenting your adventure on the ranch.
Thank you. There is a lot to come.
Love reading about the process!
Thank you. Never bored 😐