Pantry

We finally got shelving for our pantry and closets. It took a good three weeks to get an installation date. Looks like Miles found where I keep the good stuff.

Landscaping.

Even though we practically blew our budgeted amount for landscaping on the retaining wall and fence, we came in on/under budget - the final numbers aren't quite in - for the whole house build and because of that we decided to outsource the yard. We also waffled between whether or not we should get a sprinkler system. Our lot is kinda sunk down and with the copious amounts of rain Washington recieves, we really would only maybe need irrigation in the summer. Well, we decided to go for it. We got bids to do it for $3700 plus $1000 for the yard prep, seeding and finishing a portion of our retaining wall we added and we had a deal. Multiple guys worked everyday, nearly all day and it took them 6 days to get it in. And they know what they are doing. Imagine, us trying to do a complicated sprinkler system on the weekend. We would finally get it done in time for rainy season to kick in again.

The yard looks so awesome - and there is not even any grass yet. They did a great job and it looks huge. There was zero buyers remorse handing over that check - partly because it's still coming from our construction loan account but still. Next purchase - lawn mover. Any suggestions?

What's next...

So even though our house is habitable - and we have moved in - what are some of the things keeping us from getting back to a normal , non-house-building life? Well, scraping stickers off of super high windows for one. Why they didn't remove the stickers upon installation is beyond me. The quote for having someone come clean our windows for us - $400-$500.

We've also been finishing up backsplashes and fireplace surrounds. I think Ben is anxious to put away the tile saw for good. And more tile means more grouting for me. Not my favorite, but I'm willing.

Ben has also been putting in closets and shelving. Not having them really hinders the unpacking process. On about June 3rd we got wire shelving in the pantry and linen closets put in.

Besides all of that we've/I've just been cleaning and unpacking and cleaning - construction dust just never seems to go away.

I'll get busy taking some pictures of the finishes and giving final updates.

Done!

We got our occupancy permit on May 13th. After only two attempts.