Progress

Today we saw our choices for a fireplace - they were limited, which is good, so far as we're concerned. The fireplace itself was directed - the only choices were in the trim and we left it alone. The mantle was also directed, and we like it, so we're good there. We had the choice of two firebricks, and we chose clay over red. We chose to add a blower for $200 and we chose a wall switch over a remote control.

Today we also went to the house several times as we were out and about and watched as they backfilled the foundation. We returned after quitting time and met Karen's brother there, who declared that all looks good. We rely on his expertise because frankly he knows a ton about all of this and we know almost nothing. The yard is much more flat, though not done - there is a trench dug to access the electrical, cable, and phone wires, for example. But we can see the rough outline of our yard now. It will be very nice. I don't know how much more there is to do in the foundation phase, but we're ready to see lumber delivered and the framing start.

Tomorrow, we go out to look at plumbing, lighting, and kitchen. Friday we meet with the flooring guys. We got a message from the kitchen people who said our design came in under budget, so we're going to see if we can add a few small things - maybe upgrade counters in bathrooms or add some cabinetry to the laundry room.