GETTING A COUPLE OF THINGS DONE...

We knew we would not be starting construction until the spring, so we decided to get a couple of things done and out of the way while we waited for appropriate building weather. (Although to be honest, we had such a mild winter here in SW Ohio, we could have started earlier. Who knew?!?!?!)

Because the land is in the country and not on a city water/sewer system, county building inspectors required a soil test to decide what size and type of septic system and leach field were required for the lot. (After you pay a soil test fee of course.) Test holes were to be dug in two different locations, and the holes had to measure 18-24" wide, 10' long, and 7' deep. Once finished they reminded me of grave sites, but I digress.

Soil was tested and a septic/leach system and the locations for both were approved (after we pay for a septic install permit, of course). YAY! One step closer to building and, more important, cleared to install a septic system. I appreciated clearing that hurdle. A LOT! Having lived in a house with no inside running water and experiencing the joys of using an outhouse for the first 10 years of my life, I'm probably more thankful for indoor plumbing then most folks. Been there, done that. :)

Next, we decided to go ahead and drill the well. And here is where things got a bit more complicated. The first attempt did not find enough water flow for the house. After drilling 175 feet, the well company declared it a "dry" location. Wha? Huh? Seriously? Both of our neighbors have plenty of water, and our 7-foot deep soil tests holes filled completed up with water within 12 hours of being dug, so we knew water was somewhere under there. At about $2000 a pop to try to locate it, though, we were a little apprehensive....aka stressed to the max....about the next try. Or how many tries it would take to find it.

But, alas, the next drill located water at about 103 ft, and plenty of it! 40 gallons per minute to be precise. Holy Moley! That's a lot of water, and means we likely won't be having water shortage issues. Ever. YAY!

Another step closer to building. :)