chimney

Roof for Christmas

Talked to the roofers today - they said we should have the roof finished by Christmas.

Metal roof

Roof parts got delivered -then the rain came pouring down-2 inches -two days in a row. I am looking forward to this coming week because the sun will return and roofing will be started along with the hardie plank siding.

Grading

Bob walking in our soon to be driveway. Grading is important to create a nice look and also to help move water away from the house foundation.

new mantle

Ron (in middle) had really neat idea to use a beautiful piece of white oak from a tree he had milled from this property and recycle it for the outdoor mantle.

Kitchen

This kitchen is actually a "box" inside the house. Looking straight in, the kitchen sink will be in the middle and glass cabinets will frame it.

Cabinets

Do you know how many drawer pulls exist that cry out for your attention? Fortunately, I have a dear and talented friend, Gladys Olson who is my interior designer. It has helped to ease the stress in the decision making process (it can be stressful because you want the end product to look like a million dollars while staying as close to the builder's allowances as possible). Denise at the cabinet center has been helpful, showing me samples (I am very visual and like to see cabinets, finishes, drawers, etc.,) she also lets me know what is and what isn't in the allowance. We are going to do a really special powder room with an interesting glass vessel sink with koi fish engraved on the outside-don't want to give away secrets now but I promise to show you pictures. Gladys and I made a quick trip to the paint store for samples which got me very excited imagining how it will all be coming together soon.

John's Professional Advice

John Timmerman(in the green shirt at bottom of stairs) gave me some great advice from being in the contruction business for many years.....he said it really makes the workers feel appreciated if every once in a while you bring them some breakfast biscuits, snacks, a cold drink on a warm summer day..... I am telling you how right he is! The framers built a great set of temporary stairs that makes it so much easier getting into my new home. No more walking up a sandy, slippery, shakey ramp or stepping on overturned buckets:) Everyone walking into the house says how good the framing is. Thanks guys. I really do appreciate your hard work!

Plumbing

Time to pick out plumbing. Went to a very nice plumbing supply store. Do they have some beautiful new products! Great displays. Found the neatest free-standing soaking tub for the master bath. It is called "Picasso" and looks like a boat. Next week cabinets.

Framing

I saw this plan in Southern Living magazine a few years ago and put it in my "dream house" file. I kept being drawn to this home for so many reasons. I love all of the glass and I think the porches are going to be enjoyed by everyone who visits. This homesite is such a special spot too. It sits up high, has many beautiful hardwood trees on it, and there always seems to be such a pleasant breeze. I am looking forward to enjoying a roaring fire burning in the outdoor fireplace and having friends over for good food and libations!

Foundation

Foundation: A solid ground or base on which a building rests. Starting point. Creation, origination.

In my profession as a real estate agent in master -planned communities for the past 9 years, I have had the privilege of being a "match-maker" that is, getting to know my customers (by really listening to their needs and wishes) and then helping them find just the right spot to build their dream home. Now it is my turn and I am so excited! Our ideal homesite is in Solstice Meadow which connects to The Ridge at Chukker Creek by our Freeman Preserve. The land is just beautiful, the concept of our community so unique.... I look forward to sharing my experiece with you all and who knows, we could be neighbors some day! Susan.

The Beginning!

From The Oxford Dictionary and Thesaurus

Home: Place where one lives; fixed residence. Members of a family collectively; ones family background. Native land. As far as possible. At ease, as if in one's own home (make yourself at home). Refuge. Shelter. Comfortable. Relaxed. Welcoming.