A porch in summer
Summer is quickly coming to an end.
Some youth have already started back to school.
The weather is supposed to be nice this weekend.
Make sure and spend some quite time on your porch!
Originally posted 2015-08-22 13:39:57.
A log mill
Have you ever wondered what heaven looks like?
Well, here’s a peek… a perfect little mill. Don’t you think?
(I wish I knew the identity of the artist)
Originally posted 2015-08-22 13:28:55.
A design that improves with age
Here is the rebuilt kitchen fireplace in the historic Noah Parsons House located in Massachusetts.
The mantle piece adds a nice decorative touch, don’t you think? The left side is plenty big enough to have a fire to keep the room warm, and, with the aid of the forged swing arm above it, to cook the family’s meals . And then, once enough coals are built up in the fire they can then be moved under the beehive oven where fresh breads or a pies can then be baked.
Other rooms in the house are certainly “fancier” than this kitchen, designed to impress guests and maintain civility within the family… but I can guarantee you that standing in front of this fireplace is where everyone wanted to be. It is certainly where you would find this old boy.
This fireplace is also a great example of designing and building a new home that is classic in appeal. They look good when finished, but they improve in appearance as they age. A homeowner who builds a fireplace like this today will be admired for generations to come.
Originally posted 2015-08-22 13:17:19.
Every woman’s dream kitchen
When I look at this photo I first notice the wood cook-stove and admire it for having the ability to be free from the power company and my imagination runs wild with how good the food must taste that is cooked on top and within it’s wood fired oven.
And then I can’t help but notice the early form of kitchen cabinetry with a bowl used for a sink, how quaint. No clogged drains, just pitch the used water out the open widow when done.
It’s then that I start looking at all the equipment that fills this photo and I am filled with dread as I see the workload that was once placed upon the lady of the house. I think the life of a full time, stay at home mom is tough today, but it must have been overwhelming then. And keep in mind, this was the good life for many at the time.
Originally posted 2015-08-18 14:09:11.
Field stone? or river rock?
Which do you prefer?
The traditional method of gathering stone found on the property and laid in a horizontal pattern?
Or, the more modern use of stones gathered from rivers and stream beds and applied in a random pattern?
For me the answer is obvious. The field stone chimney will stand strong for millennia without the aid of cement. But remove the cement from the river rock chimney and you’d have a pile of bowling ball shaped stones spread out across your yard.
Originally posted 2015-08-17 16:33:46.
Exposed framing
Here’s a nice look for those seeking to build a cottage near the beach. The exposed framed walls are built using new lumber, that is then backed with siding, and to finish it is all then painted.
A layer of insulated panels is next applied to the exterior and then finished siding is applied.
Likely a bit more expensive than standard construction, but the finished result has so much more character don’t you think?
Originally posted 2015-08-17 12:43:17.
Where did the attics go?
We’ve lost a treasured feature in the homes being built today… the attic.
Roof trusses have made our homes cheaper and faster to build. I question their durability and longevity but one thing can’t be debated we have lost a tremendous amount of usable space within our homes…. a treasured space.
Originally posted 2015-08-16 22:43:12.
Wood or Stone?
When it comes time to add on to your log home… will that addition be made of wood, or stone?
For many, if cost were the same for either, would choose stone. Without a doubt the stone is a more expensive option… in the short run. But over the coming decades, and even centuries, as the wood siding will need maintenance, repairs and even replacement, the stone will be there… forever.
But the wood should not be considered second rate by any means. There is a warmth and charm to wood. People who are drawn to log homes are also wood fanatics, they can’t get enough of it. And that is a good thing.
The choice is yours to make.
Which will you choose?
Originally posted 2015-08-16 13:41:08.
Historic homestead
A mighty fine cabin and homestead located within the Great Smokey Mountain park. What’s not to like about this place?
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Originally posted 2015-08-15 20:39:17.
Homesteading
Yes, it is true.
At one time I did create a garden for my new bride and I with the aid of a team of horses, a plow, and the generous help of some wonderful neighbors. (The country folk of Tennessee are some of best people that walk this earth).
That’s me with my hand on the plow… a much younger and leaner version of me, I might add.
This was my “recreational work” … when I wasn’t building my future home, or salvaging material for it.
Originally posted 2015-08-15 20:26:41.