My new plan is to lay 2 courses of 8" concrete block

I know block is common in many parts of the country, but I really prefer
poured concrete. It's stronger, and less likely to leak, shift, or crack.
Around here we put 1/2" rebar in the footing, 1/2" rebar in the top of the
wall, and short vertical 1/2" rebar sections every 4' tying the footing and
wall together. All rebar and anchor bolts have to be wired in place and
inspected before the concrete is poured. It's practically indestructable!

Yes, you have to build the forms and take them down again afterwards, but
the actual concrete pour is usually done in less than an hour. You work
fast and hard, but it's very satisfying when you pull the forms and see the
final work.

And, you can always hire the foundation out if you're not comfortable with
that part.

Anthony