May 28 - 29, 2008 First look inside lodge

Millie and Dennis down at the campsite



Jeff's mom Millie and brother Dennis visit Covo Hills on a chilly late May weekend.














The lodge shell is so close to being done that it almost looks complete from the distance. Even at this stage, the  red and white-trimmed building is an imposing presence in the hills - a new landmark that suddenly comes into view traveling north on Route 78. In essence, the Covo lodge, which was strategically positioned to have sweeping views of the countryside from every direction, has itself become part of the countryside, visible from near and far.




Dennis and Millie standing in front of
the man door location 




As luck would have it, Morton Buildings ran out of the materials necessary to complete the building, leaving us with gaping holes on both corners in the rear.
Jeff and his mom knee deep in alfalfa


Millie and Dennis take shelter from the cold



The spacious 2,400 square feet interior is one open space that will keep us busy for the next few years. The ground to roofline height is a voluminous 14 feet.

Jeff is standing at the eastern wall or front door
 indicating how high the floor will be.



See the lodge in the distance


May 2, 2008 Lodge Construction Underway

At the top of stairway to heaven
View from the future front door
 The site for the "pole barn" lodge on the top of "stairway to heaven", coined by Jeff after his all time favorite Led Zepplin song, was selected for panoramic views in all directions.

Morton Buildings started framing as soon as the ground was thawed enough to put the foundation posts in concrete.  The alfalfa field is filling in around the new construction in spring's vibrant green hue.


View from one side