Cas City Forum Hall & CAS-L
Special Interests - Groups & Societies => The American Plainsmen Society => Topic started by: Kent Shootwell on July 05, 2016, 04:58:01 PM
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Like every little kid I dreamed of building a log cabin, my chance has come. First gather logs then fit them together for a floor then stack them up. Sounded easy and I think 30 or 40 years ago it would of been. But I'm started and will add pictures as I go.
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/871/41848495772_1a828918e4_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/26L1tPb)DSCF0677 (https://flic.kr/p/26L1tPb) by Oliver Sudden (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155475279@N02/), on Flickr
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VERY cool! Looking forward to following your progress!
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I am too.... very nice start :)
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Howdy,
An impressive project off to an impressive start.
Reverend Chase
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I see you have beetle killed pine where you are too! Congrats on your project. Wonderful fulfillment.
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Made a little progress, then had to watch the sunset from start of the porch.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48147429907_108a7a0471_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2gmCatR)DSCF0683 (https://flic.kr/p/2gmCatR) by Oliver Sudden (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155475279@N02/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49284649217_1255293783_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2i67Hak)image1 (https://flic.kr/p/2i67Hak) by Oliver Sudden (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155475279@N02/), on Flickr
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/947/28021883078_182c9135a1_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/JGctz9)IMG_1140 (https://flic.kr/p/JGctz9) by Oliver Sudden (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155475279@N02/), on Flickr
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KS,
Great photos!!!
Thanks for sharing.
My best,
Blair
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My plans for this summer included building a cabin in the woods on my property. Unfortunately the need for a new roof on our house took away any extra funds for this year. Thanks for letting us enjoy your project vicariously. Keep up the reports and photos!
CC Griff
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You're living the dream Kent. I look forward to seeing your work as it progresses.
-Dave
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Impressive!
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Had a nice surprise yesterday, my friend has a lot of 2" by 6" boards that he will give me for flooring and roof boards. So with kind offer I have no costs in this build other then gas and oil for the saw. Must be my clean living and pure heart finially paying off!😈
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/863/41848490632_a765f14a10_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/26L1shy)IMG_1129 (https://flic.kr/p/26L1shy) by Oliver Sudden (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155475279@N02/), on Flickr
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/966/27023440087_0e94ce223e_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/HaYcfP)IMG_1133 (https://flic.kr/p/HaYcfP) by Oliver Sudden (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155475279@N02/), on Flickr
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It surely can't hurt!!
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Progress has been slow but since I've never built any thing I expected to have to rework some things. Here's a example of a lot of work that won't pay out. The log my buddy is sitting on is full of knots and curves so it's coming out to be replaced with a much better one. We went back to the timber and dropped a couple of tall straight beetle kills which produced three good logs. Average size is 14" across.
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/971/28021875618_e1c70d0c18_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/JGcrmw)IMG_1145 (https://flic.kr/p/JGcrmw) by Oliver Sudden (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155475279@N02/), on Flickr
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Looking good! You could use the crooked logs in the areas where there will be window or door cutouts. Looks like it will be about 12' wide, so with a 2 foot window, you only need about 5' straight lengths in those areas.
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Been off to the far east (Virginia, Tennessee) visiting and seeing some sights and have got back to the fun stuff. You can see I got rid of that nasty lump and the log he was setting on. ;D Notching skills are improving and can fit one in four or five trips on and off.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52797156105_0c2a59a728_w.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2orve5V)IMG_1158 (https://flic.kr/p/2orve5V) by Oliver Sudden (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155475279@N02/), on Flickr
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KS,
Looks like you are coming along very well with this project.
Just a suggestion on my part, but you may what to think about where doors, windows and a fireplace may need to be set up?
My best,
Blair
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Thanks Blair, I have a plan on the door and window but these won't be cut in till the walls are higher then that. A small wood stove will set in the corner that is to the left and nearest and a bunk bed will be built in with the foot to it. A door will be off center to the porch and the window will be centered on the far wall looking west. The bear skin goes on the wall nearest the Aspens, a few pegs drilled in the walls for coats and guns should be about it. Oh and a small table and two chairs for the meat and whiskey I will enjoy with all my visitors.
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That's looking good Kent. How many log's high will you go on the wall's ? Look's like a nice place! ,,DT
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Dusty, I'm guessing 6 or 7 logs then start going progressively shorter to form the gable ends. The roof will extend over the porch. The spot is pretty dandy, I've seen deer, elk, moose, antelope, bear, coyote, and grouse there.
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Sounds like this is gonna be a really fancy hunting blind. Hunt from the rocking chair.....
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A stout handbuilt cabin in paradise ! Cant beat it ! ,,,DT
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Lookin good! Doin something like that has always been a 'bucket list' project, but already have to many hot dog sticks in the fire. Maybe Walmart will have a super super super Big Boy size Lincoln Log set available sometime and that will make it easier! ;D ;D
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Well fellows thanks for the comments and I've enjoyed sharing this adventure with you so far. It's time to set down the saw and ax and limber up the shooting irons. Headed off for a pack trip muzzle loader elk hunt then come down for antelope. I'll probably not get back before the snow makes log stacking unsafe. Here's where it stands now and around May I'll pick it up again.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49316170938_759a560a1e_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2i8Ugth)IMG_1158 (https://flic.kr/p/2i8Ugth) by Oliver Sudden (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155475279@N02/), on Flickr
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Good Luck!!! The yrs. get shorter and shorter. May will be here before Ya know it .,,,DT
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Looking good .
Lets see some more :o
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Hold your horses Rooster. The snow up there is measured in feet for many miles, I'll post some thing as soon as I can get there.
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Since Colorado has not had much winter this year will you be able to get in to the cabin early?
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Joe, I'm going to try soon. In this video the far away ridge line with the taller trees is were I need to get, drifting is the problem. By the way this is my buddy's video.
https://youtu.be/JHkcfeU56i8
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Finally made it to the cabin, it wasn't easy! Despite the mild winter the drifts were many and deep. Many dead trees had fallen across the trail and the sun had made the snow very hard. But 6 of us with a Jeep and a 4 wheel drive pick up using only shovels, chains, tow strap, wench, axe and a chain saw made it! Construction season has begun by the wife and I stripping bark for now. Let me assure you when you get into your mid 60s it's tiring.
but I did build a rifle during winter.
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/977/40994632965_bbd4a3b9a4_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/25syd9D)IMG_0113 (https://flic.kr/p/25syd9D) by Oliver Sudden (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155475279@N02/), on Flickr
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Fine work all the way around Kent. The rifle looks great and will fit perfect on the porch of that Rocky Mountain Cabin ! ,,DT
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Beautiful work, Kent. As Dusty said, both the rifle and cabin. I am so jealous, but happy you're living the dream. (I see that you're a southpaw.)
Keep the pics coming.
RCJ
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WOW! Looking at that rifle I can see that the cabin will be a dandy. I envy your skills. The fact that you are doing this at 60+ is a credit to your lifestyle and amazing (I am 68). The fact that you have a wife willing to strip bark is over the top!!!!!!
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Since Colorado has not had much winter this year will you be able to get in to the cabin early?
We didn't get a lot at lower elevations, but I believe the mountains got above average snowfall.
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I stopped off to see my wife's family in Boulder and that is what they have stated. We have a small farm out north of Lamar. Very little moisture out there this past winter.
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I stopped off to see my wife's family in Boulder and that is what they have stated. We have a small farm out north of Lamar. Very little moister out there this past winter.
It's been really dry here, but the mountains have been getting frequent snowfall this year. With the warmer weather, there's some concern about flooding, and are still recovering from the flood of 2013.
http://kdvr.com/2017/01/17/a-colorado-contrast-drought-on-the-plains-mountains-are-piled-under-snow/
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My buddy has been playing with a drone and shot this yesterday. We were at what I call the lodge to get ready for this seasons work and he made it complete with music right there. I'll be using this place for my base during construction of the cabin that is about 300 yards west at the beginning of the video. You can see it's getting crowded up there. ;D
https://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&v=hXJdYuntGro
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Video wouldn't play. I got a warning bar at the top with "Exception!"
RCJ
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Sorry John, I just touched on the picture then when photo bucket came up I touched the play arrow and away it went. Computers!
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Neat Video
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That is awesome! Thanks!
CC Griff
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Video wouldn't play. I got a warning bar at the top with "Exception!"
RCJ
Greetings John -
the "exce[tion" is from firefox blocking the "unsafe Adobe player"
Adobe is very .... easily hacked.... and is well known to carry the "virus of the week". Adobe updates are incredibly frequent,
rather than mess with it I allow adobe to run by clicking a button that comes up, or just copy th link and open the link in IE or Chrome.
hope this helps
pf mvl
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Wow, what a handsome rifle!
Stripping the bark has to be satisfying, if a bit tedious. Using a draw knife?
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Sitting on the porch sippin spirit's , and playing with a drone. What'LL they think of next . Life is good aint it Pard! ,,DT
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Thanks Bill, I'm fairly satisfied with it. Using the draw knife is just work for me but has to be done. Makes for a cleaner brighter cabin and less places for bugs.
Dusty, if I knew that retirement would turn out this way I would of done it sooner!
Pr. Marvel, Thanks for being our computer geek here. I sure don't understand much about these things even with my 12 years of education, graduated the 6th grade don't you know.
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My Dear Kent -
Your Cabin is a treasure, those logs are what, 1 foot diameter? and what kind of wood, ponderosa pine?
Your Rifle is apiece of art, and a suitable caliber for Whistle Pigs or to take down any offending drone not previously approved by the Porch Commander!
as a freshly "retired from the computer developer/hacker/nerd/geek business " guy I am happy to offer what little assistance my little grey cells can offer, whilst I continue to enjoy YOUR cabin and rifle vicariously!
yhs
prof marvel
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The logs are mostly lodge pole and are from 14" to16" except for the sill logs that are about 20" thick.
I now have 14 more logs striped and at the site ready to begin notching soon. Decided to put boards on the porch to make it easier to move around and it has to be done anyways. They are saw mill cut at a full 2" thick from lodge pole pine.
While working on it we saw deer, antelope, elk and moose. Also birds from blue birds to a bald eagle. The moose walked up to about 30 yards of the cabin so he must be the building inspector of the area.
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/956/40086582210_702f33cd7f_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/245jdi9)IMG_0068 (https://flic.kr/p/245jdi9) by Oliver Sudden (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155475279@N02/), on Flickr
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Hope you pass his inspection! ,,DT
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Kent,
what do you plan to chink the cracks with?
And what are your plans for finishing the interior walls?
RCJ
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Dusty, we must of passed as he just grunted and walked by!
RCJ, I only have heard to not use cement and the old cabins around here are chinked with local clay mud. I'm open to suggestions. The most knowledgeable fellow in these parts has several original cabins on his ranch. He told me that the best way to make a cabin last is to not put any thing on the wood. Seems if the wood gets wet it will dry unless the water is trapped in by some thing. A good roof and being off the ground has kept his old log building working for over a hundred years so I figure that's long enough for my needs. I will put my bear skin up on one wall.
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You might contact the Barnwood Builders guys in W. Virginia, they use some kind of modern formula chinking that last for a very long time. They are on DIY TV if you get that channel.
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I've also read that good old clay mixed with straw, like adobe bricks, is the best. Using local clays sounds right to me.
In asking about the interior, I was wondering if after it's properly chinked, inside and out, whether you would whitewash the interior. I wouldn't think true whitewash would harm the wood, as a matter of fact it was commonly used on the interior of barns, chicken coops and the like. Non-toxic to animals, I would think that if the wood was left natural on the exterior then whitewashing the interior wouldn't harm, and would greatly lighten the interior.
But I know you'll do your own research.
RCJ
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John, I don't believe I will white wash the inside as that would be much to refined for the likes of me. But I do like to hear ideas and suggestions. I had a buddy observe my struggles with cutting the notches as the walls get higher and he thought why not cut them on the ground. Seems that would be a good idea so I measured the top logs and put them down in the same order and leveled then squared them. Now I can work from the ground much easier and safer. Two more courses and I can put them on top and cut the door! A view from the west.
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/973/28021830088_a370e55f9f_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/JGccPw)IMG_0077 (https://flic.kr/p/JGccPw) by Oliver Sudden (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155475279@N02/), on Flickr
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I used red clay for our little cabin, and it doesn't hold well alone. Chop up some straw or pine needles into 2-3 inch pieces, and mix it in with your clay. I'm not sure where you are, but if bugs are a problem, you might want to mix up a solution of borax and water, and soak the logs down with it. It helps protect it from termites and boring beetles. One more thing, make sure you have plenty of overhang with your roof.
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In the old days, semi-firm road apples were used.
A common feature of old cabins I have encountered was nailing strips of wood split from saplings over the chinking.
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Captain, this cabin is located on ground that may be best discribed as small rock with traces of dirt. There is a trail a few miles away that turns into what we call grease when it rains and I hope to use that for the dobbing with grass mixed in. Bugs aren't a problem as long as the wood is off the ground. It's plenty dry and an average days humity can be 10- 15%
Sir Charles, road apples would add a certain air to the place but I'm hoping rancid bacon grease and sweaty boots will cover the whiskey and cigar smells enough. I've seen the wood splits used too and need to see if that's needed.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52797218053_8636b1935d_w.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2orvxuZ)IMG_0094 (https://flic.kr/p/2orvxuZ) by Oliver Sudden (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155475279@N02/), on Flickr
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Howdy K. Shootwell,
Don't forget to cut in the rifle ports.
Reverend Chase
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Howdy K. Shootwell,
Don't forget to cut in the rifle ports.
Reverend Chase
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Oops,
My devise seems to have gone full auto
Reverend Chase
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That fitting the logs on the ground , worked out good. They look tight . How heavy are the logs ? Do you roll them up there on a couple of poles? When you get that door cut , should make getting around the place to work on it a bit easier . Looking Good Kent!!! ,,DT
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I am so impressed by this, and really appreciate you taking the time to post pictures and share it with everyone.
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Reverend, move the selector to semi from full auto!
Dusty, I calculate from 350 to 400 lbs per log so I just snap and press them over my head. ;D Or some times I use the bobcat you may notice in the last photo.
Ben, I'm glad to share.
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Or some times I use the bobcat you may notice in the last photo.
That's almost like cheating! I had to muscle the logs into place, with only my step son to help... I wish I had a Bobcat... ::)
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This is what you need: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=luygMuoFnXs#
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Made some good progress but now that photo bucket is of no use I can't post a photo. If some one will give me step buy step instructions on how I could post pictures I would be obliged.
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- Go to Imgur.com
- Click “New post” in the upper left (green button)
- Choose your image(s)
- Add a title and description if you’d like
- You’ll see a URL on the right side with “Copy” next to it. Click that and it will copy the URL into your clipboard for you to paste onto a web page or email.
That’s it. If you create a free account you have more options about who can see your posts, creating and modifying albums, etc. Here’s an example: www.imgur.com/GInACZf
Be aware that it’s actually an active social community, so if you make your post public (which it is by default), many people will see it. My sample image had over 100 views in the time it took me to add it to this post!
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Thanks, Ben
So here it is all stacked up and the door opening cut out. I've got a window cobbled up that I will put in after the roof is on and I've hammered together a door. A saw mill is cutting 1"X 6" rough cut pine for me that will be the roof then I'll put cedar slabs on for shingles. A couple of posts will be added to the porch but no railings. Found a simple oak chair a garage sale for a buck so furnisher is started. For now the wife and I need to heal up awhile before doing anything more.
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/943/28021945358_2678219aee_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/JGcN5W)IMG_0100 (https://flic.kr/p/JGcN5W) by Oliver Sudden (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155475279@N02/), on Flickr
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That's looking good ! A lot of work right there. ,,DT
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Thanks Dusty.
Now if you or any one would tell me step by step on how to post a photo from my PC I'd give you the latest view. It isn't just using the "additional options..." for me.
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Kent, I had to load an app onto my iPad to convert my iPad photos to jpeg in order for them to transfer to the CAS city forum. When I decide to add a photo to a post I have to download the photo to the app, convert it on the app and then when I go additioal options on the cas city reply page I pull the photo from the jpeg photo album not any of my other albums. It works. Don't know if that helps.
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Working from my PC my photos are jpeg and sized to less then 400 kbs. Now I got it! There's no preview so I just hit post. This shows the door framed in and the porch posts. The nasty blue trap allows me to work threw the common afternoon storms and gives me a bit of shade. Hope to get the roof boards this week.
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That is SO cool! Thanks for letting us see your progress.
CC Griff
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Very nice. Glad you got it to post.
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Got my saw mill lumber and covered the roof. The lumber is very rough and varies by up to 3/8" in both thickness and width and end to end . All the better for that rustic look! Now to the chimney hardware before I start shingling. I've been making my cedar shingles in between hammering nails. How it looks and a view out the door way.
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Coming along very nice Sir.
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Where did you learn to knock your joints? Looks proffessional.
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I just watched the series about the 4 goups of guys in Alaska building log cabins/ homes. Wow! Talk about a hard build! Even the little hunting cabin was a job and a half. My hats off to you, Kent.
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Thanks, Capt., rooster, and Ed. The joints are my best guess system of carpentry as is all the work. I do have some smart fellows to ask stupid questions of but their train of thought is how to modern build it and I want an old time build. There are some old cabins around here that have given me some clues. Got the stove pipe support in and started nailing shakes on. Then first snow last night.
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That first fire in the stove is gonna be nice , under the new roof. Summer sure is short up there . Looking Good ! ,,,DT
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(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/980/26942857157_92c9f27a3a_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/H3RbKX)IMG_0120 (https://flic.kr/p/H3RbKX) by Oliver Sudden (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155475279@N02/), on Flickr
Winter is over at least at the cabin, mostly. Got up there last week and spent some time on the project. No damage at all from the winter and only one varmint left a small hair filled turd inside. Put down the 2x6 boards for the sub floor that will be covered with one inche floor boards later. And continued nailing shakes on the roof. I'm up to the chimney hole and will put the tin flashing around it next. I believe it's going to snow up there this week and I had to come back to town but will be at it again in a few days.
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/825/41093922024_9635cd6698_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/25Bk6jY)IMG_0001 (https://flic.kr/p/25Bk6jY) by Oliver Sudden (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155475279@N02/), on Flickr
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Looks great.
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Ah, I've been waiting all winter for an update. Thanks!
CC Griff
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Cabin looks real nice. Thanks for the update. Please post any more pictures you have.
-Dave
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I spent some time replacing photobucket pictures with ones you can see. Didn’t get them all but enough any new viewer can follow the thread better. Next week if I make any real progress there will be a few more.
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Roofing is coming along one shingle at a time it seems. Got up to the chimney hole and ran out of shakes so made a trip home to buy more boards and cut them to size. With 600 more now should allowed me to finish the roofing. Placed the chimney and flashing in pretty straight. :-\
Ran into a road hazard on the way home, dad gum traffic up there can wear on a fellow!
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/975/40229192930_831da51642_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/24hV8uE)IMG_0121 (https://flic.kr/p/24hV8uE) by Oliver Sudden (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155475279@N02/), on Flickr
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/944/28163967858_164b5058b2_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/JUKGqJ)IMG_0122 (https://flic.kr/p/JUKGqJ) by Oliver Sudden (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155475279@N02/), on Flickr
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Looks picture perfect Ken . That has to be a good feeling sitting back and admiring the cabin and its surroundings . Be careful in that traffic .,,,,DT
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Very nice work. Ruggedly cute. Anyone for some elk jerky?
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Green with envy here, Kent. Kudos for your skill and persistence. Nice that somebody got some snow somewhere. We didn't get but a few inches here in the Sacramento Mountains of south central New Mexico.
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Your living the dream, savor it.
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A few details on roofing this cabin. I carefully select cedar fence boards them cut them to 18" for shingles. For the first row I split some at a taper. Tar paper goes down then then a 2x4 split at a 4 1/2 degree angle is placed to give the right base. The rest goes on unsplit with a recessed layer of tar paper at each coarse. At the end of today I have three more courses to put down to reach the peak. But I ran out of nails!
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/943/28328526738_79f1760904_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/Kai73N)1029508D-8A44-4423-A7B9-E3825838EBE5 (https://flic.kr/p/Kai73N) by Oliver Sudden (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155475279@N02/), on Flickr
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/824/41480360944_144c032563_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/26ctG9Y)IMG_0124 (https://flic.kr/p/26ctG9Y) by Oliver Sudden (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155475279@N02/), on Flickr
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Passed another hurtle today. I made up a window that has two panels that slides side ways. Then cut in a 2" X 10" frame to carry the wall weight and installed it. Either window will slide to the other side.
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1729/28478004538_d216ac384d_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/KovdAf)IMG_0128 (https://flic.kr/p/KovdAf) by Oliver Sudden (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155475279@N02/), on Flickr
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1752/41628928254_43273e616e_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/26qB93j)IMG_0129 (https://flic.kr/p/26qB93j) by Oliver Sudden (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155475279@N02/), on Flickr
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Some chinking and yer gonna be right snug :D
Fantastic project.
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To enhance that snugness I built a door to plug the biggest hole. Some 2x6 and 1x4s got laid out then the edges of the 2x6s were grooved to except a full length strip of wood. Then the 1x4s were dovetailed across and diagonal and hickory pegs put in blind holes to keep things together. No nails, screws or glue is used. Checking out the antique shop we found a lip latch with door knobs. I had to repair the workings and make the keeper for it. Haven't looked for a key but did put a key hole in the door just in case. I didn't know what the door opening is so made it over sized for fitting. A buddy came up to help me install it and it turned out I had to cut all four sides. Remember the part were I said I've never built even a dog house? Well despite that we got it in and it works great.
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1748/27632233587_a9ddaa3207_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/J6Lqmt)IMG_0331 (https://flic.kr/p/J6Lqmt) by Oliver Sudden (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155475279@N02/), on Flickr
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1742/41779553285_ed464c7b21_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/26DV8BB)IMG_0135 (https://flic.kr/p/26DV8BB) by Oliver Sudden (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155475279@N02/), on Flickr
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THAT is some pretty woodworking, love the dovetail work. Nice work Kent!
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I agree a fine job Ken .,,,DT
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All I can is WOW! Well done.
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Consider some Chinking before the Snow Flies ?? Marvelous Door.
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During last weeks door install we had to go to Laramie which is around 20 miles north as the crow flies. Just as we got there a twister started to form then touched down on the other side of town. Lucky, says I. Now this week I'm up taking care of some details and off to the west lo and behold a forest fire kicks up! It's in the Medicine Bow range perhaps 30 miles out. I hope this cabin is done enough that I can spend at least one night in it before my luck runs out. Well, any how I can at least say that I built a log cabin.
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/896/28920805518_2ec9124777_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/L4CFTU)IMG_0133 (https://flic.kr/p/L4CFTU) by Oliver Sudden (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155475279@N02/), on Flickr
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There were 2 more tornadoes in Laramie that day. My son lives there and sent pictures.
I hope the fire stays a long way away.
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Did you get any rain on the cabin and fire this past week end. I know Laramie got a little rain.
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I haven’t been back up there sense my last report but according to the weather reports there has been a fair amount of rain there. The last I heard the fire is 63% contained and the weather has been favorable to the fight.
A rather rough oak table was given to me and I’ve been cleaning and refinishing it for the cabin. That and some minor home jobs has kept me off the job.
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Glad to hear about the rain! My buddies cabin is down near Tie Siding, a little concerned. We've had several small fires in the bar ditches, fortunately we've had some decent rain lately.
You're doing a great job on the cabin!
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Thanks B H Scout, Rained hard on Sunday.
Finally getting down to the wire on this cabin. The chinking (wood fill between the logs) is done and I started dobbing with mortar to seal out the elements. Using a bit of mesh and nails to insure the dobbing gets a good grip. Added a little dye to the cement to make it look more like the locale dirt. It dries a bit lighter color and I think blends in better.
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Got the chinking done. My buddy brought up a cast iron stove that he feels will serve better then the sheet metal one I have. I'll do some detailing to it and reblack it before moving it in. This past week I sleep in the cabin for the first time and was well pleased with it. Song dogs had quite a serenade for me at night. Next thing to do is to put down the finish floor and tack up the bear hide. It may be next spring before I can build the bunk beds as I noticed the aspen leaves are beginning to turn yellow at the cabin.
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1776/43190340825_b260c2277d_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/28NzMAH)IMG_0154 (https://flic.kr/p/28NzMAH) by Oliver Sudden (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155475279@N02/), on Flickr
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Art.... just beautiful Art
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Sure has come along real nice , would like to set that porch in the eve pulling on a jug playing my harmonica , and give them song dogs something to yodel about .,,,DT
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Where do I send my money and who do I need to talk to for a reservation. Wow!
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The porch sitting and siping part has been tested! ::) If a fellow was to show up with enough whiskey to share that would cover a bunk for the night. I’d never rent it but do like company some times.
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May just surprise Ya one day . If you see an old white Ford 4wd rattling up the drive with a keg and a couple of hounds in the back , it'll be me .,,,DT
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Kent,
With all the interest in visiting, you may want to consider a 3/4 porch on your cabin.
Great job!
My best,
Blair
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May just surprise Ya one day . If you see an old white Ford 4wd rattling up the drive with a keg and a couple of hounds in the back , it'll be me .,,,DT
Can I go too, Dusty? I'd ride with the hounds!
CC Griff
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Okay.........I'm jealous.
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So when are you moving in and when are you having us over to wake snakes?
-Dave
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It's time to wrap this project up. With the encouragement and suggestions of all of you I have in a mere three years finally set up house keeping in the cabin. Set up my camping kitchen inside and split some wood. Even had my first guest. A few little details to do in the coming summers but I'm calling it done! Visitors must come one at a time as you can see its small, and bring whiskey.
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1862/42769684410_cbb0864314_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/28apP6U)IMG_0169 (https://flic.kr/p/28apP6U) by Oliver Sudden (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155475279@N02/), on Flickr
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Hmmmm... " Even had my first guest. " is that him on the wall ?
... "Visitors must come one at a time ..." no witnesses ? ;D
seriously , that is a fine cabin.... :)
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Very nice, Kent.
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Hmmmm... " Even had my first guest. " is that him on the wall ?
Shouldn't he be on the floor?
Seriously though, that is an awesome cabin!
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AWESOME!
Chance
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Kent, I'll bet every one of us who has watched this thread has had the dream of doing what you actually accomplished. Just really pleased for you. It's just a wonderful space you created with your two hands.
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Fantastic work. Thank you for giving us a good view of the project as it came along. This is real marrow of life stuff and the pictures are pure eye candy.
-Dave
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Thanks fellers. I reworked a video of the area and I’m posting it here for those that missed it. It’s from earlier in the project and at the beginning on the far left is the few logs of the start of the cabin. This lodge was my base camp for most of the build.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&v=hXJdYuntGro
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Kent:
I suppose it is about time to head back to the cabin. Winter is almost over.
T-Joe
P.S. I envy your ambition.
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Winter's dead as a doornail here in Arizona my friend. The Ocotillo is in bloom and the desert floor is carpeted in lavender, orange, yellow, and white flowers. It never lasts long enough but I always love it while it lasts.
Please send more pictures. I really love what you've done with the place.
-Dave
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I haven't even tried to get to the cabin yet, maybe in 4 to 6 weeks if the snow backs down a bit. Forecast for today is 4-6" tonight up there at 8600' and right now its snowing down here at 4700' and starting to stick. I do love winter but wonder how it held up over the winter storms, hope so. Made a bunk bed to replace the one we used last year. Used douglas fir and red wood with pine slats under some cot pads. Figured a test was required so I slept in it a few days here. Pure luxury! That and the steps to the porch is all the plans for now. I did put in for deer, elk, and antelope tags. If I'm drawn my plan is to sit on the porch starting September 1st till the snow starts piling up.
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Neat bed.
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You have done a bang up job there, looking real cozy. A lot nicer than my first log cabin, but we were in a hurry to finish before winter. FYI, Loblolly pine doesn't age well. Only been 10 yrs, and the logs are crumbling.
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Pretty darned swell bunk to go with a pretty darned swell cabin!
8)
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Thanks fellers, I tried to go up yesterday but there's still some heavy drifts. I didn't get a picture of the road that gives the scale but this scenery shot may give an idea. I got to about three mile from it then turned back. Did see some of my favorite neighbors down the trail though.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47643398611_f887c239a8_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2fA5Sx6)IMG_0224 (https://flic.kr/p/2fA5Sx6) by Oliver Sudden (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155475279@N02/), on Flickr
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Livin' the dream ! :D
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Made it to the cabin today. Drifts were deep and wet so the wench got a real work out. We took what I'm calling the new kitchen and screwed it to the wall. In a week or so I'll take the bunk beds up.
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Kent ... :P
We are certainly hoping you gave your "Wench" plenty of time to rest up and prepare for the return trip :o ;D
Your Cabin be Superb. But ..... Didja wind and set the CLOCK???
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Yep, I know how to train them and pace the work. Setting the clock took me to the edge of my high tec knowledge.
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Kent: Guessing your bride doesn't read these threads, or there might be a rolling pin to answer to ... ;)
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I hope he meant winch - not wench.
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Beautiful job, Kent.
I've enjoyed the progress report very much.
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The calendar says this is the beginning of summer so I talked a buddy into going to the cabin to relax and maybe do some shooting. We had a fine time and I even cooked him breakfast. Summer is a bit different up there. I loved it.
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Look's like a great time KS , Winter hang's on a long time up yonder . Bet it's getting real nice about now . ,,,DT
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Keep living the dream Kent. You have a wonderful hideaway there. Don't be shy to post any pictures of future trips.
-Dave
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The current heat wave keeps me in the basement, but maybe a photo of an old cabin that gave me some understanding of how to do the roof would be of interest. This abandoned cabin is at least 100 years old on a ranch near by. Of the ones I looked at while trying to figure out how to make mine this was what I chose.
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A buddy is taking blacksmithing lessons and made a hook and nail for me, I hung the go devil on the porch with them.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48356676126_7c2e47c7ee_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2gF7B6h)IMG_0438 (https://flic.kr/p/2gF7B6h) by Oliver Sudden (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155475279@N02/), on Flickr
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Summer is about over, 5 degrees and snowing. The wood stove makes it hard to keep the cabin under 80 degrees so I have both windows open a bit. Was hoping to get a grouse but they are smarter then me today. Did shoot a pack rat that?s been making a mess under the lodge.
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That's the stuff Kent. Do you have video content to share? I'd love to see a virtual walk through and around the cabin perimeter in the snow. In southern Arizona, we have to go up on the Mogollon Rim to see the stuff. Definitely is soul feeding to see you enjoying this so much.
-Dave
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Dave, a video up load may be beyond my meager skills. But a moose walked by the porch yesterday afternoon.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48881064283_08abad71e7_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2htseqp)IMG_0268 (https://flic.kr/p/2htseqp) by Oliver Sudden (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155475279@N02/), on Flickr
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Great shot Kent. If you ever set up a Youtube account, please let us know. This is great stuff.
Thanks
-Dave
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Moose are cool. Good picture.
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My Good Kent -
love the photos!!! thanks so much for posting them.
they remind me of how the Colorado Rockies (unlike the New Mexico ranges) get socked in quite early LOL.
Just an FYI, if you plan to use your splitter:
A buddy is taking blacksmithing lessons and made a hook and nail for me, I hung the go devil on the porch with them.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48356676126_7c2e47c7ee_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2gF7B6h)
May I suggest that you dress down the peened & flaired bits?
If actually used it will only be a matter of time before they split off and possibly cause owies...
as a former amatuer blacksmith I found out the hard way ....
yhs
prof marvel
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My Good Kent -
love the photos!!! thanks so much for posting them.
they remind me of how the Colorado Rockies (unlike the New Mexico ranges) get socked in quite early LOL.
Just an FYI, if you plan to use your splitter:
May I suggest that you dress down the peened & flaired bits?
If actually used it will only be a matter of time before they split off and possibly cause owies...
as a former amatuer blacksmith I found out the hard way ....
yhs
prof marvel
+1 Prof Marvel, I had a friend loose an eye changing track on an M1 Tank for that very reason.
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You?re both right, and besides I don?t want to have OSHA notice that and the loaded guns and the whiskey 🥃!
I was thinking that this internet has allowed me to make contact with some interesting people yet not actually meet them. The pros and cons of modern times.
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Kent:
I agree with you whole heartedly. I will send you a PM the next time we visit family in Boulder or Laramie, maybe we can have a cup of coffee and visit.
Joe
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Sounds dandy.
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The finial touch, steps! To make getting on and off the porch (at night partially) steps are added. First a rather large log was spilt into quarters then fitted up to the porch. Best guess carpentry was employed as I hadn't brought a level, square or tape measure along. I did have a chain saw and a camp ax plus my buddy that is a true computer geek to help. So now the cabin is truly done.
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I've enjoyed this venture since you first dragged the logs in, a thing of beauty.
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:D PLUS ONE too Major 2 ;D
This project has been truly fun to follow 8)
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Looks like you're trying to attract hummingbirds, too.
+3 to Major 2 and Coffinmaker.
RCJ
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+4 to the other guys. The cabin is awesome.
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Just found this thread and I must say that I enjoyed watching the progress of your cabin build. Its a dream to one day have a place to build a cabin like this. Yall have some pretty country over that way.
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We have added a guest that may keep the mice under control!
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Here kitty kitty. Beautiful. Wow! My wife and I both saw a panther that was passing through Aurora many years ago. But he wasn’t that close.
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Hi
So, buying a Poodle to take up there is a BAD idea. Dang.
Later
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Kent:
How close is the fire? Middle son sent a photo from his porch in Laramie yesterday. Usually you see the mountains in Northern Colorado, all you can see in the photo is smoke.
Vaya con Dios my friend.
T-Joe
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Joe, the Mandatory evacuation boundary is about 4 miles south of the cabin. The fire is around 20 but who knows where it’s going. Three buddy’s and I will spend a few days up there soon then muzzle loader season starts. We’ll see how it goes. They say the snow should come in a couple of months and knock down the fires.
A poodle might make for a exciting evening setting on the porch. ::)
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Are you shooting your new Kibler rifle in ML season?
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Has anyone heard from Kent lately? Those fires in Colorado and WY are getting pretty close to his cabin. I have been tracking the Mullin Fire in WY as I have several friends in the immediate path of the fire and family down in Laramie.
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Judging from the smell he must be dead! But the cabin is safe so far. I was up there Monday/ Tuesday with a couple of guys to cut and stack fire wood for the season, we did four cords, and the smoke was thick most of the time. That makes for good photos though.
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Scared me when I pulled up the post with all the yellow and orange I was afraid I was looking at a cabin on fire. I was relieved to realize I was looking at a sunset. Hope it survives the craziness out there. Just lovely.
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Glad everyone and everything is still ok.
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This years cabin season is in full swing but the winter didn't find me just laying around. The lion and bear photos made me (and with the wife's full approval) think it maybe nice to take peek out side before opening the door. Using the same dovetail and peg construction I made up a door with side sliding panels. Besides the store bought boards that the first one was made of had shrunk to the point that a 1/4" to 3/8" gaps were showing up. This one is rough cut beetle kill boards that set for 8 months indoors to insure they are dry! Close fit and a view.
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You're living the dream Kent. I look forward to seeing your work as it progresses.
-Dave
Yep! Wish I could do that and get out of Phoenix valley. Too damn many idjits here. :-\ You are a lucky man. ;)
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A lucky man indeed! 8)
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A few photos added.
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It’s been very dry and warm this fall at the cabin. While at the cabin I found the window had been affected by the rain, snow and sunlight. Seemed a set of shutters were in order to reduce the effects. Making them of cedar boards at home the nails to hold them together were double cinched over to prevent them from backing out. We took them up there and did the final fit , then spent the night. The front came through and the wind gave them a real test which I’m happy to say. This weather is odd and as far as I know no one has been up there in late November before, at least in a vehicle. Still no snow on the ground!
Touch photo for video.
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:) Kent >:(
For better or worse, I fear your seeing the "New Normal" first hand.