The progress on the steps have been slow due to rain and the tediousness of the task. The square pillars at the top and bottom of the stairs (Escalon) need to framed off square to keep the guys on track while building up the wall and to make sure that both sides are identical. Yesterday, I left for work and when I came home the frame was built, but it was built out of mahogany scrap that I had been saving for little things like small trim work, picture frames etc. That stuff is expensive…we have spent nearly $2500 on mahogany for the trim around 9 windows…not exactly the wood I would prefer the guys using to frame off a rock wall and stairs. Oh well, the lesson learned is to stay around and make sure things get done right with the right material.