Mike and Will, thanks for the info on resources.

Will, wow, what a generous offer. I'd love to take you up on it. Its really just the post size and species in relation to the kneewall and joinery that Im still trying to figure out. There seem to be simpler solutions out there, like sizing up the posts, or most simply bringing down the kneewall, but learning some of those calculations should certainly prove helpful in the future, and hopefully for this projects question as well.

I also plan on cantilevering the floor boards, and with my joist layout it will be 9".

Im close and available, and feel so grateful to have you guys nearby.

Dan