A long, short story

I debated on sharing this information as I didn't want it to be received as having any ulterior motive.  This IS a success story and I'll own that statement.

5 years ago I purchased a property in Boise's historic North End, near Hyde Park.  It had always been a dream of mine to rehab and live in a historic home, so, the journey began.

Several months into demolition and construction the water main below the home broke, pumping 700,00 gallons of water into the ground beneath the home.  Just for the record, yes that's a lot of water, the equivalent of 12 swimming pools.  Unfortunately, the only way we knew was when we got our water bill which was $17.48 one month and $3,420.00 the following.

Good thing we have insurance, right!  I notified my insurance company and after 5 months of non-action, we were forced to retain an attorney to help protect our rights as insured homeowners.  There are a number of details amidst the four years that this drug on, all of which combine to make possibly one of the most bizarre stories I've heard.  The house sunk into the ground a foot and the foundation and supporting wall of the structure actually split from floor to roof line, the property was condemned by the city, our insurance dropped us due to "increased risk of loss" I assume that would be due to the fact the claim was never paid to repair the property, our bank went out of business and notified us they would have to start foreclosure, in spite of the fact that we had never missed and/or been late on a payment as they could not extend our construction loan.

In the end, we spent our life savings and then some attempting to defend ourselves for something that was not our fault.  The ultimate result, we will lose most of our earthly possessions, we will not recoup even 5% of our personal cost, our credit is ruined and we may potentially lose our current residence.  With that being said, what we have gained is the ability to work together, to rely on each other and the knowledge that we did nothing wrong.  We can hold our head high and we have a greater perspective on what's really important in life.

This is the last time I plan on telling this story, it's over, it's behind us, the outcome has been decided.  I wanted to share it for several reasons.  First, I could walk away bitter, defeated and depressed.  What good would that do anyone?  Life is short, it's a gift and it is what you make of it and that is the way I intend to move on.  Second, I hate rumors, so, I will tell you the truth!  Third, I want to thank the people who were so meaningful in helping us along the way.  What each of you did, made the difference to us and that has all the difference in the world.

Now, I plan on finding an amazing bottle of craft beer and living a new adventure with my family.  I can't wait for what's to come!

Cheers

A special thanks to the Farm Bureau for the addition of this beautiful hole in the ground in Boise's historic North End