and 9 days to go....

The kitchen is really coming together.  Eight men put their muscles to good use when they moved the cement island top into place.  It is really a piece of art and Kevin Smith from CemArt is the artist. We finally got the refrigerator (without handles---another problem), the range hood is working; now we need some ovens.  They are to come within the next week.

Doug, our resident master woodworker, completed the fireplace surround.  Originally, we thought that we would put some tile around, but Brett's idea of wood has proved to be the better choice, and we are very glad that we took his advice.

One of our very favorite light fixtures is the sconce at the top of the stairs.  There is nothing left to say except that it is beautiful.

"the view"

Mr. VanHandel is in charge of the grading around the house, and that will start today.  We met with the landscaper yesterday and the plans are being drawn, and the lawn will be seeded by the middle of next month.  Having the benefit of the sun (such a change for us), will allow for grasses and flowering plants. Being able to pick flowers for inside the house will be something new for us.  While we have loved the large trees where we now live, we have been limited to shade plants.  Yea, Sun!  (Also looking forward to a small vegetable garden.)

Gene Griffin (Jack's brother) is someone that we have been seeing quite a bit lately.  He does "everything"----runs the Bob Cat, transports unused materials to the warehouse, and generally keeps things in order.  We have enjoyed getting to know him.

Dan, a finish carpenter, also works for Griffin Builders, but he has not worked on this home; he just came to check out the house.  The large house that has kept him busy for the last YEAR is nearly finished.  Then Dan will go to another large home, also being built by Griffin, that will be on the summer Parade of Homes.  It is in an equestrian park north of Appleton---a beautiful setting, and, we are sure, a beautiful home.  

this needs no explanation

The carpet laying is complete--basement stairs.  Thanks, Becky!

As each new thing finds its place, we are excited to see the "next" thing.  We must admit that we have been eager to see this light fixture hung, and it finally happened; this is over the dining table.  Wow!

a more complete picture of the kitchen, sans ovens.

This is very a close-up view of the cement island top; it is amazing with metal shavings from the scrap pile and other pieces of amber, black, grey and clear glass; all polished and smooth.

Doug hung the front entry door yesterday.  We need to finalize the color of the outside----another decision.  There are a few things that we need Brett's help to decide---this is one.

There is absolutely everything good to say about Griffin Builders.  We feel so fortunate to have them building our home, and we can't say enough about how much we appreciate their craftsmanship, their attention to detail and their crew.  Many people like to tell you about what a hard process building a home has been for them----delays, workmanship, etc....well,  we can tell you that they did not have Griffin Builders as their builder.  This has been a seamless process from the beginning.  What they say they are going to do and when they  say that they are going to do it, happens.  What few delays we have had have been our fault; either we have made the wrong choice or have given Brett the incorrect information, or purchased something from some place that proved to be less than we had hoped.  But, Brett and Sue are  absolutely unflappable, and they make it work.  Thanks to each and everyone of you on the Griffin team!