Week 9: Aug24 - 28

The plumbers have nearly completed their rough in work and the HVAC guys have started. Initially, we had planned on placing a ground source heat pump system in as a way of gaining effeciency with our heating and cooling. As it turns out the bid we were provided wasn't quite accurate, in fact, it was $8,000 dollars off of accurate. So we decided not to go with the ground source heat pump system. We are now putting in an electric air source heat pump in combination with a natural gas furnace. The heat pump will improve the heating efficiency of the furnace as well as function as an A/C unit in the summer. After spending two summers in an 85 degree house we are looking forward to some A/C next summer.



We have also made some progress with the electrical system. I would say that 80% - 90% of all the electrical receptacles have now been placed. Kevin Layton, a member of our ward and a journeyman electrician, is helping me wire the home. I am very grateful for his help as, to be honest, I have no business trying to wire this house. I got a wild hair last winter after taking a 4 night course in basic housewiring and thought I could figure things out. Well, I might be able to over the next six months, but I have to be done in the next 2-3 weeks. It is a good learning experience for me and even though it makes life a little more hectic it feels good to be involved in the whole building process.

This week was also very special as our little Miles Ivan was born. Viki delivered him at 8:38 p.m. Thursday, August 27, 2009. He weighed 6 lbs. 12 oz. and was 19.5 inches long. We are glad that he is here. The pregnancy was a bit trying as we were always on edge regarding the potential for him to have birth defects. We are grateful that is all past and that he is healthy.

A great week at the house and a great week at home.