Digging, Mounds, Demo, and our first Inspection

Things are moving rapidly..... here's an update, I will leave the photos to Michael, since I just cannot figure that out!

So, last week they began digging out the area for the new foundation and then they put in the stem walls (those create the foundation, so says Michael). The other morning I was getting the kids ready and right around 8am the jackhammer started going! It was loud!! I didn't really have a warning about this, but it was a gentle reminder that there is no turning back!

I know I go back and forth on the stress level thing, which I think is to be expected. Today we had our first inspection of the stem walls. I was a bit surprised that this would happen so early, but then again, there are alot of checks and balances through this process. Today was just such a day. We were not expected to be here, so Glenn waited here for the inspector. I guess it all went well, with the exception that we need to dig a trench for water flow........ and of course there are dollars attached to that. Nice. See, that's where the stress comes in.

Do the math;

How much dirt do you get

when you dig a hole 30ft long

8ft wide and about 5ft deep.

Answer: MORE THAN I CARE TO THINK ABOUT!!

We have mounds of dirt in our backyard and are trying to get rid of it. If you know anyone who needs some fill dirt, have them contact me- we have a ton!! I actually listed it on Craig's list- which I have been doing alot of lately- I actually sold my kitchen- isn't that funny! I sold my entire kitchen, cabinets sink and all- cool. Anyway, I digress....

We have started the inside demolition process. Michael will post some pictures of graffiti throughout our house. Michael also says that the house looks like a transient crack house that has been shut down...... not that he has any experience with this, just what he has gleaned from watching MSNB Investigates with me! Seriously though the house is a mess- another stressful part. The kids are moving out this weekend.....my mom said she would take them- that was kind of her! It is amazing how quickly a house can be torn apart. We also got our SAM today- Store And Move container. So, we are systematically moving out and starting the demolition project.

Tomorrow they will be pouring the cement for the foundation. I gotta tell you- Chase is LIVING for tomorrow. Chase LOVES trucks- he is all boy- in fact he has about three large trucks that go with him everywhere- they are large- one is so large, he can actually sit in. But it makes him happy, so most days the large trucks go back and forth between our house and my moms with him. Anyway, he knows we are getting cement and that cement comes in a BIG truck. Every time he sees a cement truck, he asks if it is coming to our house. So far, the answer has been no.... but tomorrow the answer will be YES!!! He will be ecstatic I am sure!! We'll post some pictures of him for you!

I will let Michael post some pictures, I think I covered it all....... it is hard to remember to capture everything that can happen in our lives during one days time!