The estimates, the architect, and farming

Yes, they're all related.
As we left the country for our trip, our architect, Mr. B, prepared the 30 page document to send to all potential builders. The document listed all the materials to be used, and the amount. Each builder filled out the document and sent it in to Mr. B. When Mr. B sent out the document, he also explained the location, and the date he wanted it back, which was this past Friday, the 30th of July. The plan was that Mr. B would look over the estimates, and meet with us on Saturday morning. After we returned to Germany, we called Mr. B, who told us that two builders immediately said that they could not do it- we're kind of in the middle of a housing boom here in southern Germany. Mr. Builder was the only builder to get the estimate back on time, and 4 other builders promised to get it back by Monday. This really threw a wrench in the works, as Mr. B left for vacation on Saturday afternoon. Fortunately, Mr. B is seriously, the best, and coolest architect in the world, because he has no problem talking with us while he is on vacation :) Ùnfortunately, yesterday, Mr. B called, but we were not around. This morning, Joern called Mr. Builder to ask. Mr. Builder explained to Joern that Mr. B had discussed the prices with Mr. Builder, and Mr. Builder actually lowered his prices to meet that of the lower priced builders. It pretty much looks like we're going with Mr. Builder. This is most exciting, because Mr. Builder is really, really high quality. Most of the houses being built in Neckartailfingen at the moment are built by Mr. Builder.
The most incredible news? There is a possibilty that Mr. Builder can start the week after next! Possible though because, the operator of the excavator may not be available the week after next. Why? Because he also operates the combine harvester on his father's farm. Something that a Fairfield girl never expected, to lose our excavator to a combine harvester.
Whenever they start, I'm content. I know that they'll start with our house soon. We know the builder and we know the price. All the unknowns are falling into place. Very, very exciting!