Todd and I got the keys to our new home on Valentine's Day 2002. I don't think either of us can top that gift next year, so we won't even try. On the other hand, maybe we'll be more romantic and give each other a deck and fence!
Here's Todd checking out the new lawn. For some unknown reason, he seems obsessed with looking for bald spots.

the making of...
Before the streets were even paved, we drove into the subdivision and found lot 16. We walked around pointing at the dirt. 

That's our very own dirt! 
We chose the lot because it was on the edge of the neighborhood, backed against an open field. In a year or two, another phase of the subdivision will be built there. But until then, Cicero gets to think it's his turf. 
After weeks of driving by the empty lot, Todd discovered the forms in place for the foundation. When he returned later that day with a camera, the foundation had already been poured. Wow they worked fast! 

Also notice the absence of some trees. Of the seven trees that were on our lot, five were removed. We were disappointed, but only until we realized we had traded them for a view of Mount Hood from our bedroom. 
The foundation stood there for weeks before we saw any more construction work. 

Next thing we knew, framing had begun. Before we could get back with a camera the walls were in place and they were working on the roof.
Look, almost house! Just need a driveway and some paint...
Let's go inside. Would you like to see a floorplan? 

updates...
 We're not as brightly lit as some of the neighbors, but we're getting there! Our plan is to build on these lights each year. This picture was taken 12/1/2002. Our first holiday season in the new place!

 
Please send questions, comments or report problems with this page to Todd & Deana Dow.
This page was last updated 1 December 2002.