In the work of one's trade, it is always satisfying to see results. In the building of a house, it is easy to see the work of the framing carpenter as the roof soars to the sky. It is amazing to see the work of the trim carpenter as the wood frames windows and doors. The art work of the tile-setter, the roofer or the painter all show themselves long after the house is finished. It is easy to see their handiwork. How about the plumber's craft, of which we have already considered? What about the work of the crew putting in insulation? How about the electrifying wok of the one responsible for making our houses more than a cabin in the woods? That one with the responsibility of making sure electricity works correctly and stays in its intended conduits? The electrician is one to whom this post is dedicated.
Of course, the electrician for Through the Woods also happens to be the writer of this blog so forgive the appearance of self-aggrandizement. When we began the process of building this house, I intended to do the wiring. Because of my engineering background, I have always been intrigued by electricity and it has been my desire to do this bit of work myself. So, after learning all I could from a book, I set off in the process of locating switches and outlets and pulling wiring through walls and floors. With the help of my son, Steven, and after three continuous weeks of work, the house is essentially wired. In the words of the Alabama Power lineman who installed the meter on the house, "As far as we are concerned, you can move in this house now, because you have POWER."
Unfortunately, our wiring work was not very well-chronicled with pictures. Trust me, however, there are thousands of feet of 12-2 and 14-2 wires running through this house. We pulled almost ONE MILE of wire of differing sizes to a variety of locations all for the purpose of electrifying our home.
It is true, the work of the electrician does not show itself directly. It is evidenced every time you flick a switch or plug in the vacuum cleaner. Every load of clothes washed, the cooling of hot, humid Southern air, the warmth of a hot shower; all attributed to the work of the electrician. And it was all done without one single shock. I had a few near misses as I diligently wired a switch and forgot that the power was turned on that circuit. But, in all I think we have done a great job.
