Setbacks: Crafting a better path forward.

First, I want to take a moment to apologize for the recent quiet. The past weeks have been a whirlwind of determination, setbacks, and ultimately, transformation. I’m excited to share the progress we’ve made, the setbacks we’ve faced, and how challenges have brought us closer to something even better.

The initial momentum was exhilarating. I finalized our plans, pinpointed what seemed like the perfect location for our sauna, and dove headfirst into designing the building. Hours were spent drafting blueprints, creating cut sheets, preparing parts lists, and sourcing lumber. There is something uniquely satisfying about seeing ideas on paper begin to take shape in the physical world. It felt real, this sauna was really happening.

But then came the zoning permit. My application was denied due to setback constraints that I honestly hadn’t fully understood. It was a moment of deep frustration and disappointment. I had poured so much energy into this project, and hitting a regulatory roadblock felt like a personal failure. Yet, as I’ve come to realize, these obstacles often hold the greatest opportunities for growth. The refusal forced me to slow down, reassess, and approach the situation with new curiosity and care.

Determined to move forward, I contacted our surveyor and spoke with the zoning commissioner. These conversations were invaluable and taught me the importance of seeking expert perspectives when facing unfamiliar obstacles. With their guidance, I gained clarity on the limitations and knew exactly what was expected hung. Stakes and string in hand, I took to the property to physically map out the boundaries and visualize the possibilities. The process became more than just problem-solving; it was a chance to deepen my connection to the purpose of this build.

Returning to our intentions set earlier in our planning led to a key realization. At the outset, we had envisioned the sauna as an integral part of our daily lives, not a distant feature of our property. Moving the sauna closer to the back patio reinforced that vision, creating a more seamless connection between our home and this new gathering place. The change in plans wasn’t just practical; it was intentional and rooted in what matters most to us.

When I resubmitted our application, it was approved. That approval carried with it not just the ability to continue, but the knowledge that we were now building something better aligned with our goals. The whole experience reaffirmed how setbacks, while uncomfortable, often improve the final outcome by forcing us to think deeply and make deliberate choices. A reminder that this project is not just about the final structure but also about growing through the process.

And now? It’s time to celebrate this milestone! This weekend, we’re hosting friends and family with a mobile sauna to mark this moment. Thanks @kindled.community.sauna ! It’s a perfect pause before the build begins to come together. Connection, relaxation, and reflection —that’s what this weekend will be about.

Looking ahead, there’s still so much more to share. Detailed plans, practical guides, and building updates are all in the works. But for now, I’m reflecting on how far we’ve come—not in flawless execution, but in persistence, adaptability, and growth. Every challenge we’ve faced brings depth to this project, and every success builds on the positivity of this journey.

Here’s to the road ahead, paved with lessons learned and the promise of what’s yet to come. Thank you for being part of this process. I can’t wait to continue one board at a time and sharing the journey with all of you.