Mechanicals Next Week

On our way out to visit the site today, Builder Brian called to discuss our plans for next week. If all continues to go well and the weather holds, it looks like we'll be putting in some mechanicals next week. Now, if you're like me, you're thinking, "Gee, in the context of home-building, to what exactly does the term 'mechanicals' refer?". Builder Brian explained that it means we'll be getting our HVAC system and a water heater! I don't know about any of you, but this is music to my ears! They're adding some meat to those bones .

Speaking of meat, check out the Zip Board on the framing! This was a wonderful surprise! Although we didn't know if it would happen, we were hoping to "test drive" this system for our builder. After some research, we realized that the Zip System would be a real advantage to us; not only does it go up quickly, it is water-resistive - meaning that our house stayed dry inside, despite heavy and incessant rains. You can visit the website at www.zipsystem.com.

We drove out to the site today and Virginia Ann, James, and I arrived to find that we have the beginnings of a real roof - and stairs! We couldn't resist getting a close look, but I decided not to go up yet. Builder Brian advised us that some of the second story floor may not be completely stable, and I couldn't imagine trying to keep both kids safe up there by myself. James wants to walk and explore everything himself, while Virginia Ann has become our safety expert, pointing to every nail and potential eye-hazard (the sawdust all over the floor!). They balance one another, I suppose!

As this house comes together, I can't help but be overcome with gratitude for all that we've been given. One of our greatest blessings is that we are surrounded by a generous and loving family, without whom we would have never had this opportunity. I look forward to Thanksgiving 2010 when I'll have the chance to bring them all together in our new home to celebrate. Even in the midst of so much hardship in our nation and in the world, there is always something for which to be thankful. Happy Thanksgiving 2009 to all of you!