We are at our last installment and are working on punch list items. Due to various challenges on timing of activity, final building inspections and making sure the home was ready for its final photo shoot, it has been a busy few weeks.  

We want to take this time to thank the Donovans for allowing this project to be a part of the At Home with Donald A. Gardner Reality Home Building® series. We have seen from past experience the combination of excitement and tension that building a new home creates and having others watch makes it all the more interesting. We know the Donovans are looking forward to being able to relax and just enjoy getting comfortable with the home.  We also want to thank our bank, suppliers, craftsmen, decorators and anyone else that has been part of the project for getting us to this point. We are grateful for the many contributions they make on a regular basis to Heart To Hearth’s projects. We know that we don’t always take the easy path and we appreciate all of the support we receive.  And finally we want to thank the At Home with Donald A. Gardner staff for selecting the project for the 2007 Reality Home Building® series. We have enjoyed working with them very much and have appreciated their insight and understanding as we worked through the various stages of the project.  

As we reflect back on the results of the project we can note a few key lessons learned: - No two custom home projects are the same.

- With very few exceptions, the budget is a guideline and one should expect some level of extra expense.

- There will be issues that are out of anyone’s specific control; everyone must work together to solve these situations.

- and, the results of building a Don Gardner plan seem to always create the unique and comfortable living spaces we expect.  

So as we move on to our next location remember, all of the activities, people, products and challenges that go into to a project simply make a house; it takes a family to make it a home!  

Thank you for following along and good luck with all your building activities,  

Wayne Vick, Heart To Hearth Homes