NewlyWoodwards

an unconventional home

Raising the walls in the house

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I was trying to think of something fun and punny to say about raising the walls and nothing is coming. Who let the walls out? Who’s got walls? FOUL WALL! So, let’s just get to it. Ryan took off 11 days of work and it immediately started raining. Figures. But the dream team was able to dodge […]

Installing floor trusses (and trusses vs. joists)

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We couldn’t find a house plan that was “perfect” for us. And God knows we tried. I looked at thousands of house plans in books and online. I’m not exaggerating. I know it was thousands. There were some that were “close” but nothing “just right.” Call me Goldilocks. I wasn’t finding my “just right.” So […]

Basement plumbing, in-floor heat and walls

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It’s been almost exactly a month since they started digging our basement. Every day, it looks more and more like a home. And since our last update, there’s been lots of progress. First up, plumbing in the basement and garage. We are lucky to have a licensed plumber to help us with this work. While Ryan and his […]

Our evolving rural view (and our experience with the conservation reserve program)

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We all love periodic baby bumps and baby photographs, so why not take photos of how your yard and home has changed over time? When I took a photo off our back deck last week (for our mini patio project), I realized how much this view has truly transformed since we’ve owned the property. So, I decided to […]

Build list: Outlets

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Are you building a house? Grab our free guide with secrets to save thousands of dollars on your home. I’ve been thinking a lot about the kitchen – because it’s coming to life before my eyes. And because I’m making decisions that will impact the daily use of the kitchen. When I’m feeling overwhelmed, I start making lists. My […]

On building our own home

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Well, we’re officially on the path to starting construction on our new house in the spring. I’ve talking about it here and there, but I’ve been getting some questions about the process, so I’m going to try to get us up to date on our process for the three of you who care. If you remember, […]