Building Momentum...and Patience.

So a few weeks ago I announced that we were about to embark on the biggest DIY project of our lives, building our very own home. Exciting, right? As you can imagine, we have been eager to get started. It didn't take long however before we realized how much is actually involved in the process, especially at the beginning. At times it has been more of a hurry up and wait process (wait on the architect, wait on the builder, wait on the permits, wait on the weather) than a let's get started scenario. Here's a basic run-down of our "have done" list so far:

1. found a house plan and layout that we used as our starting point
2. hired an architect
3. worked with the architect to review, revise (many times) and finalize the house plan
4. applied for and received an official address
5. removed a few trees (tear) where the driveway will go
6. hired an engineer to survey the property and complete a percolation test for septic
   
7. prepared plans for submission to town for approval and permits
8. realized we might have more to add (see below) to those permits
   

Up until this point, it has been unclear whether we would actually be able to break ground this year. At first we were not at all optimistic on the prospect, then after a few pieces fell into place all at once, we thought we might have a chance (imagine the excitement!) but now after some careful thought and consideration, we are facing reality (and colder weather) and are back to square one. The good news? We'll have all winter to stay busy planning the interior design (colors, kitchens, flooring, oh my!) and researching the best green building materials (and blogging about it all too of course!).

One of the biggest reasons why we won't likely get started this year is because of a possible addition to our site plans - either these or perhaps (if I get my way) this. Because both of these systems are relatively new technology, we want to make sure we do our homework. We also need to get a really firm idea of whether or not our budget will allow for these additions. That, in addition to getting site reviews, price quotes, plans and eventually permits will take (you guessed it) more time! So for now, we are putting our patient faces on (this is hard for me) and taking it slow. Let's just hope we have a mild winter this year because next spring can't come soon enough!