With the footer installed next came block laying. This was interesting as I was using several partial blocks. Many of these were of the old three chamber types so this made for ten inch sections. As the entire wall was scheduled for a full parging inside and out this was fine. I interspersed full blocks enough to provide for sufficient strength in any case and also added two pilasters; one uphill to resist pressure there and the other by the door for added strength there. i also used some six inch blocks to create a return at the doorway to assist in keeping dirt back and give a finish detail.

Block laying is like playing with leggos and so can be fun mindless work with ample opportunity to watch the cats or clouds.

The plan was to use foam insulation on the outside with expanded metal lathe over that and another full parging on that. The plan was successful.