Today we closed on a commercial construction loan with Hometown Bank.  Since it is a commercial loan, they know we are planning to become a B & B once our home is built.  We were having to keep this part of our plans on the quiet side as we applied for home mortgages.  Thus, we are out of the closet, so to speak!   It is interesting how this “Godsend” came about!  Remember when we were extras on the set of Wish You Well, the movie?  In making movies, there is a lot of downtime, waiting around time.   During some of this downtime, Jack had a conversation with a gentleman on the set who was also an extra.  After hearing about our banking issue, he asked if we had tried Hometown Bank (HT).  Indeed we had (for a home mortgage).  He said he was on their Board of Directors and wanted to see if HT could help us. The next day, their Chief Lending Officer called.  Within 3 days, he and their Commercial Banker showed up to speak to us and see the property.  We are so thankful for this serendipitous meeting!  So we are Out of the Closet, excited to be up front with our plans and ready to move forward.

The next steps in the construction project include: spreading gravel for the foundation, termite treatment, inspection of the surfacing, then pouring the slab.  After that, we will begin installing the first floor system so that Blue Ridge Timberwights can do the timber raising!  You can see by this photo that we are ready with good strong steel to accept the timbers!

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Strong foundation

The timber raising will be such a fun time!  I will probably step up my blogging as this project moves along.

On another note, I decided to go back to work and have accepted a job with Virginia Cooperative Extension, part of Virginia Tech.  I start Monday and I will be an Extension Specialist for Human Development. Primarily I will train extension agents in areas such as school readiness, child and adult stress, family connections, outdoor learning, quality child care and any topics communities may need to strengthen and support families.

Thanks for all of your words of encouragement and prayers!  We’re feeling the Christmas spirit!  Hugs to all!