Digging holes for the perk test Day 9

We had to wait till Kevin's next days off before we could get more work done. We knew going in this we would only be able to work on the houses or stuff for the houses when we are not working at our paying jobs. Just an f.y.i. to every one, that is why there will be many days in between posts of getting stuff done but that's okay.
Anyways, on Kevin's recent days off he was able to dig the three 12 ft. trenches for the perk test. A perk test is to see how the water will soak in the ground so the septic guy can design our septic tanks accordingly and also taking in consideration of the design of our houses too. Like how many sinks, toilets, showers there are in the houses. Thanks to the backhoe Kevin was able to get the job done in 2 days.

The backhoe Day 4

A 780CK CASE Backhoe


WE GOT A BACKHOE! We bought our first heavy duty equipment last Friday. We were able to purchase the backhoe from a local guy here in town. It is older and has a good amount of hours on it. With much consideration and many prayers we decided to get it. We will be able to get so much done like lots and lots of digging, clearing more land, pouring dirt in the wall formations, planting a future garden and trees, etc..... We have lots of plans for this backhoe.

Clearing the land Day 2

It is so great to finally see progress. And just to think our home will be placed on this land. Our view of the mountains and the beautiful Arizona terrain is breathtaking.

Next we will need to get the perk tests completed so that we can submit our house plans to the City Planning and Zoning for approval. The perk test will consist of 3, 12 ft holes in which soil samples will be taken to determine how big our septic system will need to be.

Getting Started Day 1

Majority of the mesquite dug out and ready to clear.
Digging up the mesquite trees on the property.



Our family of 8 recently moved from the suburbs, with all the conveniences of city life, to the country where it takes a good 10 minutes just to drive down our dusty dirt road. Some may wonder, why? Well my husband and I decided to purchase some land and to build our own home not only because it would be a great investment, but to have better control of our global foot print and to allow our children to grow in character and perseverance that come with helping your parents build a home.

So this is Day 1, it is our intent to keep a blog journal of all the ups and downs of building a Rammed Earth Home in Arizona. Today our land was cleared and bushes removed for both the master house and guest house.

After much research we decided on a Rammed Earth home because it is cost efficient, we will be able to use natural resources readily available in our immediate area, it has a year round climate that will not be a drain on purchased energy and a cost savings, and it is safer from a fire stand point than a common wood structured home.

We are designing a 2,800 sq ft home with 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, an open kitchen, laundry room and family room. We will also be building simultaneously a guest home 820 sq ft with one bedroom and bath.

Our skill level is master carpenter, Kevin (my husband) has multiple years experience of building and remodeling homes throughout Georgia. So we will be able to save an extensive amount of money because much of the work can be done by him.

To say the journey begins here would not be true as we have spent many days and sleepless nights planning for this adventure. But alas, we must begin somewhere so here is the best time to begin our written and visual journal.

Keep us in your prayers and keep the communication coming as we can only learn from doing our best and hearing from others.