First of all, Happy New Year!

I’ve been working really hard the past couple of weeks to finish the roof of my house and guess what? It’s done! Make sure to check out the most recent pictures under the Photos tab.  (A good tip: make sure the wiggle board agrees with the metal roofing you use.  This issue set me a day behind schedule.)

I am really pushing to order the siding for the house soon.  Again, thank you for all of the generous support so far.  Although $1 may not appear much every little piece is extremely useful! I am almost up to $8,100 and 50,000 hits!!!

I have continued to receive encouraging emails from people who are interested in my project. What always surprises me is the number of people who say that what I’m doing is inspiring. I just want to say, thank you so much. For me, this is the journey of one of my “crazy” childhood dreams coming true. And I’m extremely grateful for all the kind words.

I also feel so blessed by all of the encouragement I have received and I want to help give other kids with “crazy” ideas (like me) a chance to make them a reality.

That’s why I want to start another branch of NerdGirlHomes called TeenBuild. What I really want to accomplish with TeenBuild is to mentor others through the process of building a house. I will post more on this topic soon.

Oh! Also here is the link to the “official” TEDx video. Enjoy! http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=hcFC0SvBfNc

Also, thank you Science Companion for mentioning me in your newsletter! I appreciate it and thank you for the encouragement! (website: http://www.sciencecompanion.com/2011/10/wondering-what-science-and-engineering-can-help-girls-do/)

Again, thank you all for the encouragement and support! I really appreciate it!

~Kendall Ronzano

(The Nerd Girl)

I hope you all have plans for the holidays. I’m looking forward to spending time with my family,  friends and of course working on the roof of the house project (if the weather allows me).

This past weekend I spoke at the TEDx event in Monterey (http://www.tedxyouthmonterey.org/). I was honored to be a part of this incredible experience. I met a ton of inspirational people and the audience was remarkable! Even after all the years of theater I’ve done I was so nervous to go up on stage, but the crowd made it all go away. Thanks, you guys! And of course thank you organizers of TEDx! Below is an amateur, unedited video of my speech. I’ll post the official copy when it comes out sometime in December. I hope all of you who attended enjoyed the event as much as I did! And please, feel free to subscribe to my blog. I’ll keep you all updated! Thanks again for all of the support and encouragement! And thank you “Mr. Meany Pants” for firing up my persistence! (Watch the video and you’ll understand ) Thanks again!

-Kendall Ronzano

P.S. Almost reached $8,000 and 45,000 hits on my website!

*By the way the Sponsors Page is now merged with the Donate Page

Surpassed the halfway mark in fundraising for the LUSBY – thanks everyone for the amazing support! Keep checking the Photos page for new images of the build. While you’re there, take a look at my new online store. Proceeds go directly to this project. Keep those donations coming. Every little bit helps!

~Kendall Ronzano

So much has been going on lately! Everyday I wake up to find more moving emails in my inbox along with messages from generous people offering up what they can to help me accomplish my goal. Thank you so much!

Building wise, I’m finishing up weather proofing the house for the rain. Yesterday I finished putting in the windows and began framing the roof! Check out the photos I uploaded: http://nerdgirlhomes.wordpress.com/photos/

I am still working on addressing emails so I apologize for any delayed replies. I appreciate all of the different ideas and propositions that have been sent to me and I want to let everybody know that I have created a logo and am working on developing a Cafe Press shop (thanks for the idea!).

I must send a huge thank you out to the Tumbleweed Tiny House Company. This group has been very helpful and supportive of my project, giving me many opportunities with the press, along with words of  encouragement. Thanks you guys!

The other day my Mom called me into the kitchen to show me the “Keeping Up with Kendall” post on the Tumbleweed Tiny House Company’s blog. (http://www.tumbleweedhouses.com/build-it-yourself/keeping-up-with-kendall/) Again, thank you!

While I work on all the organization and building I feel as though this is just one of my usual projects. Growing up, I’ve always had big ideas and building a house before graduating high school was one of them.  So, for some strange reason me doing what I’m doing just feels….well…normal. I am so thankful for all of the encouragement I’ve received to take on this project. Everything starts with an idea and many of these thoughts can be intimidating and overwhelming. Trust me, I’ve been there. The thing is, you just have to dive into it and start. You want to seize every moment that you can. If you really want to try something but just keep waiting and waiting for the right time to start you may never do it! So if you ever really wanted to build a house try and find a way to do it!

On a bit of a random note……I watched one of the DesignStar episodes featuring tiny houses.  It was really interesting: http://www.hulu.com/watch/276921/hgtv-design-star-tiny-houses-makeover?from=fb_feed I really liked Meg’s mirror idea and color scheme along with the idea of a library style ladder.

Also, check out the great article the Tumbleweed Tiny House Company and NerdGirlHomes were mentioned in by Docica on page 35 (http://www.docica.com/current-issue/). Also, see a mini version below.

Stay tuned for more blogging this week! (Notice the fundraising thermometer increasing!)

Thanks again!

~Kendall Ronzano

(The Nerd Girl)

Literally, the day following the interview I came home to find 48 new emails in my inbox and an increase in my website traffic by about 7,000 hits. My site has climbed from 2,700 to over 13,350 hits in just a few days.  Word is definitely getting out about my project and I remain ecstatic and awestruck. I am so thankful for all of the support and encouragement from people all over the world. I’ve actually received donations from people who live in Australia and throughout Europe!
Amongst the emails I have heard some incredible stories. At times, everyone gets frustrated with certain aspects of their lives and reading these stories helps me keep everything that I think is “difficult” in perspective. Thanks so much to those of you who have shared your experiences with me. They are inspiring, humbling, funny, and always leave me thinking. I’m still processing donations and responding to all the emails. I’ve had to learn to adjust my time now that I’m back in school. But, I will answer every email so please keep them coming!

I’ve been contacted by both the “Oregonian” online newspaper and the “Tumbleweed Tiny House Company” asking my permission to include NerdGirlHomes in their newsletters. I am honored and excited to be asked.
I’m continuing my work with an attorney who has generously donated his services to help me complete the 501c3 application (it is very tedious and time consuming). In the meantime, I’ve written and submitted a Fiscal Agent proposal and am currently waiting to hear back from the organization that can hopefully, become my sponsor.
In terms of fundraising, I’m 36.1% of the way toward my goal and raised a lot of funds last week! I’m making a big push so I can purchase my materials to Complete Phase 3 and get the house weather tight before the rains start.  My goal is to have everything I need for Phase 3 by Labor Day Weekend.  Here are some of the items I need immediately:

1. 2×6 @18′ Douglas fir
2. 10 2×6 @ 12′ Douglas fir
3. 6 sheets of 4′x9′ 1/2″ cdx plywood
4. 10 1×6 @ 16′ T&G Knotty Pine
5. A graphic designer willing to show me how to take my logo idea and turn it into business cards, letterhead, t-shirts etc. I can do some of it, but need help taking it to the next level (people are requesting shirts!)
6. A printer willing to donate the printing costs of above items

The shower arrived a couple days ago thanks to the generosity of a donor in Philadelphia, PA! So exciting – thanks! I had a funny moment yesterday as my Mom walked in while I was finishing up a phone call. A local attorney called me to consult about toilets! He is working on a project of his own and wanted to pick my brain about my research. I’m pretty sure my Mom never thought she’d have a daughter who was taking calls about toilets.

I must say, things are spreading like wildfire!  People are stopping by nearly everyday or driving down the street to get a peek at the house and my progress. I’m so thankful for the encouragement, enthusiasm, and willingness to contribute. I’ve received some very touching emails and they’ve brought happy tears and filled my heart with determination and light. I’m positive I am exactly where I’m supposed to be. It’s going to feel so good to complete this house, do something good with it and then teach others how to do it. Thank you for reading my blog and stay tuned for future updates!

TTFN,
~Kendall Ronzano
(The Nerd Girl)

There has been a lot of progress here at NerdGirlHomes since my last blog.

I had some great exchanges with the Eric, Frank, Mike and Pépé at ProBuild last weekend. Thanks for the help and encouragement you guys!

Phase Two of building is now complete!  I learned to frame the walls and loft. Make sure and check out the updated photos on my website nerdgirlhomes.wordpress.com

Next step is major fundraising for Phase Three.  Every penny helps and it was amazing to wake up this morning and see a $200 donation notice from Paypal. Check out the sponsor/donor tab on my site to see the generous support I’ve received so far.

I also got an email from the Sentinel and they want to write an article featuring my project and the progress here at NerdGirlHomes! I am so excited for my upcoming interview.

So, be sure to check the paper and my blog! I will keep you all posted. The house is really starting to take shape!

Stay tuned,

~Kendall Ronzano

It has been an exciting week here at NerdGirlHomes.

High Points:

- At the start of the week (July 27) I attended an inspirational NAWIC (National Association of Women in Construction) event. It pleased me to meet these amazing women. I also spoke during the BBQ. I felt that my audience was very supportive and encouraging. Thanks again for listening!

-July 28: I raised enough money to purchase a trailer from FMJ Trucks and Trailers located in San Jose! Getting the first big piece of this project was electrifying! Looking at the shiny black trailer parked in the driveway reassured me that what I’m doing is possible. This project takes a lot of time and work but it is worth it!

-July 29: NerdGirlHomes raised enough money to purchase all the materials for Phase One (modifying the trailer and floor framing). This achievement has helped me realize my goal’s attainability.  With every step I take I feel more proud of myself.

-Ordering the Phase One materials on July 29 was definitely one of the highlights of this journey so far. It is so exciting to see the project progress so quickly!

-July 30: I woke up early (average teenager on summer vacation) to talk with the delivery person from Monument Lumber who was dropping off the materials for Phase One. It was absolutely worth getting up at that time!

-July 30 and July 31: I am continually shocked, proud, and surprised at the progress I have made just in these two days! Let me tell you all, it’s not an easy labor. (I’m working on getting to the point where I can utilize volunteers effectively.) Doing this project has already helped me to realize and appreciate the business and construction community. As teenagers I feel that we don’t always see what happens behind the scenes of a business or construction company. I continue to feel that understanding the mechanics and structure of a house is an important life lesson – especially for women. I highly encourage people to participate!

-The past week I have felt a little funny. I figured it out. My cheeks hurt from smiling so much! The past week has been incredibly encouraging! One of the most motivating aspects has been seeing the energy people have while talking about and viewing the project (especially my neighbors!). I appreciate the enthusiasm so much!

Low Points:

-None

Lessons Learned:

-The process of ordering and receiving materials

-That an expensive hammer is stronger and more comfortable to use than a “$6″ hammer

-Redwood is much more expensive than Cedar because it takes longer to grow

-How to remove extraneous metal parts from the trailer

-How to modify the trailer so it is ready for floor framing

-An angling technique while using the Pneumatic Framing Gun

-Make sure there are no holes between the aluminum flashing and boards (mice and moisture)

-Make sure to wear a long sleeve shirt while dealing with sparks

-How to use a Sawzall, Impact Driver, Pneumatic Framing Gun, Jigsaw, Electric Staple gun and a Die Grinder

- That support comes in all forms – financial, words of encouragement, materials, introductions, sharing ideas, giving feedback and belief.

I will keep you all posted. I am starting fundraising for Phase Two. No donation is too little. Thanks again everyone for your support and encouragement! I really appreciate it!

~NerdGirl – Kendall

I’m trying out a new blog format today. The project is really coming along! We are almost ready to purchase the materials for the first couple steps.

High Point of the Day:

Almost have enough money for the Phase One materials! (A.K.A. modify the trailer, floor framing etc.)

If anyone has these materials lying around please let me know!

• 2  2×4 @ 10′
• 13  2×4 @ 8′
• 2  2×6 @ 10′
• 2  2×6 @ 8′
• 6  P.Treated 2×4 @ 8′
• 3  Cedar 2×6 @ 8′
•  26 1×4 T&G Fir @ 16′
• 4  Insulation 4×8-2″
• Aluminum Flashing 72′ of 24″

Challenge of the Day:

• Staying focused on a beautiful summer day

Lessons Learned:

• How to make a static button on WordPress
• More techniques of reading a framing plan
• More budgeting tools

I hope you all had as good a week as I did! There has been much excitement the past few days as I get closer to having my materials and starting to hammer my first nails.

Thank you to my amazing and generous sponsors – I am so appreciative and humbled by your generosity. NerdGirlHomes is closer to its financial goal! (Check out the thermometer I added to the website)

Slakey Brothers (Santa Cruz) donated a stainless steel Kohler sink! Thanks, you guys! I just had to take pictures with it and they are on my website.

Additionally, NerdGirlHomes is making friends with Chris Rossi (Rossi Electric- Philadelphia, PA). Chris ordered and donated a shower for the LUSBY and it’s on the way – thanks so much, Chris!

I’ve received financial support from organizations and individuals locally, in the SF Bay and as far away as Alaska, Philly and Indiana – the support for my project is overwhelming.

I have been researching trailer pricing. I must say US 101 Trailers and Trailers Plus have both caught my eye (very good customer service by the way).

I’m hoping to start a relationship with a local bank and have had one meeting so far. I’ve got a couple more lined up with different institutions and we’ll see where I end up doing business. I’m finding that most people take a 16 year old seriously, but not everyone…and it’s even more outside-the-box for a girl to be building a house. I’m looking for that banker that “gets it” and is excited about NerdGirlHomes and its prospects for the future as a sustainable non-profit.

Yesterday I received an email from the Santa Cruz Chamber of Commerce. It appears they want to meet with me! I’m working to schedule that next week.

If you can tell I am very excited and busy and my thoughts are all over the place.

One last note:

I am looking for a fiscal agent until my 501c3 paperwork is approved. So if you know any non-profits that would be interested please send them my way!

Stay Tuned,

Kendall

I hope you all had a great 4th of July! I know I did, for the most part. Over the past three days I have spent over 32 hours of my time attempting to contact potential sponsors. I can truly say that I didn’t think it would be this difficult and time consuming. But I can assure you all that I am very driven and won’t give up on this.

So far on this journey, I have heard people say they would donate, but that it may not be much.  I just want to say that every little bit counts and every contribution puts me closer to my goal. I appreciate the encouragement I have received so far, it helps get me through days like these.

Currently I am really frustrated. I am thankful for the promise of future labor but I am in fact stuck. Before I am able to continue I must acquire my materials…

I am excited to see the view/hit tally on my website increase drastically over the course of the day. But at the same time I try and imagine… What if every person whose come my site donated $10? The Answer? I would be at my goal.

Like I said earlier, every little bit counts. Thank you all again for the encouragement. It really does help me get through these rough days.

I’ll blog again soon,

Kendall