Still raining...so, still working inside.

here is the installed fire-rated door that now provides access into the garage:

i was actually against installing this door, but i have to say its definitely been great having it!

and a view from the garage side...still need to add a step. 

we decided to frame out the rough opening for the new french doors that will lead to a new deck off the back of the house.

the first step was to build a temporary support wall- since we will be removing studs in an exterior bearing wall, we needed to support the 2nd floor joists that bear on that exterior wall (until we got the new header beam in place)

here is a photo with the studs partially removed.  we will keep the exterior siding intact until its time to install the door (either tomorrow or wednesday)

and here is the final framed rough opening for the door.