Class of Feb 13&14 2016!!

[2Determined2Quit]

Well after scouring the internet in search of a log home kit, I stumbled upon LHBA. After only reading a few pages and then a few posts on this forum, I was convinced this is the way to go. My husband quickly agreed. We have been "lurking" the forum for about 6 months now, and finally got the email for the next class...and signed up immediately!! February can't come soon enough!! We both know this is going to be a long, hard, and demanding task to build a log cabin. We aren't afraid of hard work and long hours, but the biggest difficulty we are having right now is all the negativity with family, friends, neighbors, coworkers etc. telling us how foolish we are, how much work it going to be, that we have no idea what we're getting ourselves into.....etc etc. It's to the point that I don't even tell anyone our plans anymore. At first it just fired me up more, and I used it as motivation to "prove them wrong", but some days it gets real old, real quick, and I just get irritated with the silly, uneducated, hurtful remarks. I guess what I'm looking for is some moral support, and everyone on the forum is on the same path and seem real genuine and helpful. I can't wait to get to the OTHER side!!

We have already purchased 160 acres of land, and hubby is already buying and building tools we will need. I'm trying to slow him down because we will learn soooooooo much more in class, but he's raring to get going LOL

Would love to chat with anyone else going to the upcoming class or get any newbie advice from the old pro's on here :)

[John W]

Determined, after YEARS of lurking, I signed up yesterday. Very excited to get to the class and get started. I can finally say, can't wait to see you at class!

[rckclmbr428]

Haters gonna hate. Builders gonna build. Where is the land at?

[loghousenut]

Well after scouring the internet in search of a log home kit, I stumbled upon LHBA. After only reading a few pages and then a few posts on this forum, I was convinced this is the way to go. My husband quickly agreed. We have been "lurking" the forum for about 6 months now, and finally got the email for the next class...and signed up immediately!! February can't come soon enough!! We both know this is going to be a long, hard, and demanding task to build a log cabin. We aren't afraid of hard work and long hours, but the biggest difficulty we are having right now is all the negativity with family, friends, neighbors, coworkers etc. telling us how foolish we are, how much work it going to be, that we have no idea what we're getting ourselves into.....etc etc. It's to the point that I don't even tell anyone our plans anymore. At first it just fired me up more, and I used it as motivation to "prove them wrong", but some days it gets real old, real quick, and I just get irritated with the silly, uneducated, hurtful remarks. I guess what I'm looking for is some moral support, and everyone on the forum is on the same path and seem real genuine and helpful. I can't wait to get to the OTHER side!!

We have already purchased 160 acres of land, and hubby is already buying and building tools we will need. I'm trying to slow him down because we will learn soooooooo much more in class, but he's raring to get going LOL

Would love to chat with anyone else going to the upcoming class or get any newbie advice from the old pro's on here :)

Yup... You folks are on the road to "off the deep end". You'll be outcasts, bumblefarders, screwballs, and lunarticks. They'll all think it was a bad batch of street drugs that did it and some of them will have nothing to do with you for fear that the Cops are watching you.

Don't worry, they'll get over it. Just tell them that if my Wife can lift that door off the bench and stand it up all by herself, you can toss together a log home.

http://i157.photobucket.com/albums/t55/loghousenut/P1030348_zpsc3vtqvrd.jpg (http://s157.photobucket.com/user/loghousenut/media/P1030348_zpsc3vtqvrd.jpg.html)

http://i157.photobucket.com/albums/t55/loghousenut/P1030351_zpsveaut39x.jpg (http://s157.photobucket.com/user/loghousenut/media/P1030351_zpsveaut39x.jpg.html)




Welcome to you two and John W...

[2Determined2Quit]

I love that saying!! gonna use it!!

Land is in Saskatchewan, Canada...hunting and fishing paradise!!

[2Determined2Quit]

Thanks for the pics LHN!! Hats off to you and your wife....would love to meet you "bumblefarders" some day LOL

[2Determined2Quit]

Determined, after YEARS of lurking, I signed up yesterday. Very excited to get to the class and get started. I can finally say, can't wait to see you at class!

See you there John!! We will be the middle-aged prairie folks that have lost their marbles :)

[Nicolas]

heah Prairies rocks! Manitoba here, we will help each other for sure!

[John W]

My friend and I, Gary, are leaving our wives at home to come to the class. Look for a greybeard and a retired military looking guy, both kind of vertically challenged.

[eduncan911]

Right there with ya 2D2Q. I was lurking for years since 2006, signed up a bit later and asked the basic questions, and the planets aligned finally for me to take the May 2012 class.

During that 6 years, there has been a lot of haters, in family and work life. It too got to the point that we just don't tell anyone our in-depth plans any longer. "We are building a house. Just takes a while to plan each step and we aren't in any hurry." I tell them, which accounts for most of the delays, because we ARE going as fast as we can. :)

It changes you mindset when you go from, "we are building a log house ourselves! Lots of hard work, but we can do it! Going to be awesome!" To moving to say, "yeah, we are just custom building a house."

Invite those over later when you are done, and then tell them about each log you fell, peeled, seasoned, stacked, pinned, sanded, stained, insulated and chinked. Hard for haters to hate then. Instead, they may ask when are u building the next one.

[donjuedo]

Welcome! It sounds like you'll fit right in.

[StressMan79]

Welcome! It sounds like you'll fit right in.

I became the `log cabin republican´ in my group...

Sent from my VS986 using Forum Runner

[panderson03]

My friend and I, Gary, are leaving our wives at home to come to the class. Look for a greybeard and a retired military looking guy, both kind of vertically challenged.
hey there Gary and John. you might want to consider allowing the wives to attend. wives tend to (I'm a wife so I can say this....) have minds of their own; ideas of their own. if your wives know the
principles behind the LHBA practices it might minimize un realistic expectations and avoid some arguments

marriages are happier with both parties on the same page
having both husband and wife attend class can help with that

building is hard and hard on marriages.

:) just a thought!

[John W]

Panderson, my wife and I have talked about that before, remember I've been lurking for about four years. She has no interest in going to the class, but is definitely all for it, ever since we saw FiremanSteve's 95% complete house. She physically can't/won't be doing much on the house, but supports it all the way, and will gladly be our cook for the folks working. We'll incorporate ideas they have as much as we can, if we can't, we can't. Neither wife will have issues with that. Gary and I have done projects together and understand how to work with each other. We both listen to ideas brought by any of us, and we discuss until we come up with the best solution. I insisted on Gary going to the class, as I didn't want to get into multiple discussions on how to do something, he needs to have the same background on butt and pass. I've read so many times on this forum, you waste time and money if you go outside the teachings of the class. So the main builders need to be on the same page. The wives are cool with it.

[panderson03]

that is good news!! sounds like you've thought it all through.
access to the member's side is invaluable :)

[edkemper]

So the main builders need to be on the same page. The wives are cool with it.

Famous last words. Smile. Wives are absolutely "main builders" even if they never pick up a hammer. But welcome to the family.

[blane]

I had the same negative responses from my family a friends. They all live visiting us in our log home now.

[2Determined2Quit]

Thanks for all the support everyone, I feel better about our plans already! It's comforting knowing that others have went through the same negativity and I have already starting telling fabrications to the "curious" people :)

John and Gary, sounds like you guys will do just fine if your both on the same page, and have each other as back-up to convince the wives LOL. Very glad my and hubby are on the same page, now I just have to convince him (and teach him) how to get on this forum!! I am sure once we get to the other side he will have lots of questions and will appreciate all the advice from you all. Thanks again!!

[eduncan911]

I think one of the hardest reasonings to reason with others is the "pay as you go" moto they teach in class. It's difficult to fathom in this age of credit lines and car payments the concept of "saving up a little, building part X. Save a little more, build part Y."

Sure, it takes longer to plan and build; but, people just can't grasp that concept when you tell them how you are building it.

As they say on the website, plan on taking the class two years before you are ready to start.

As we say here on the forums: cheap, fast, good. <- you only get to pick two.

[John W]

Don't worry guys, I'm not saying the wives are second stringers, and they're there only to cook and say Yes Sir. I'm sure we'll have 100 meetings with all of us to get the most of what each wants, and again, what we can do, we'll do. We both firmly understand that if Mama ain't happy, ain't nobody happy. And they understand they can't get a $1,000,000 house from a $10,000 investment. We're all pretty practical.

[2Determined2Quit]

I think one of the hardest reasonings to reason with others is the "pay as you go" moto they teach in class. It's difficult to fathom in this age of credit lines and car payments the concept of "saving up a little, building part X. Save a little more, build part Y."

Sure, it takes longer to plan and build; but, people just can't grasp that concept when you tell them how you are building it.

As they say on the website, plan on taking the class two years before you are ready to start.

Cheap, fast, good and only get to pick 2---- I will keep that in mind!! I always said I want a simple and well built home (and life in general) so I guess that would fall under cheap and good.

As we say here on the forums: cheap, fast, good. <- you only get to pick two.


You have a great plan eduncan! I can't wrap my head around people that "finance" everything and when you ask them how much it cost or what interest rate they are paying...they have NOOOO idea!! All they know is how much the "low" monthly payments are!!@#$%^? REALLY??? REALLY!!! We have sooooooooooo many friends/family/neighbors that have the best of the best and I often ask hubby how the hell they can afford it when we live almost paycheque to paycheque?? He always responds...."cause our stuff is paid for and theirs is financed forever"

I can't do "debt"...I have trouble sleeping and it's on my mind constantly. The only debt we have right now is our super sized "McMortgage" and once we sell our current house, we will have enough money to build our log home. We are in the process right now of selling all the stupid things we "thought" we needed for our super sized"McMansion" and using that money towards tools and gear we will need to build our future log home and on our way to being completely debt free and enjoying a simple life....... without the bank's approval :)

[loghousenut]

You have a great plan eduncan! I can't wrap my head around people that "finance" everything and when you ask them how much it cost or what interest rate they are paying...they have NOOOO idea!! All they know is how much the "low" monthly payments are!!@#$%^? REALLY??? REALLY!!! We have sooooooooooo many friends/family/neighbors that have the best of the best and I often ask hubby how the hell they can afford it when we live almost paycheque to paycheque?? He always responds...."cause our stuff is paid for and theirs is financed forever"

I can't do "debt"...I have trouble sleeping and it's on my mind constantly. The only debt we have right now is our super sized "McMortgage" and once we sell our current house, we will have enough money to build our log home. We are in the process right now of selling all the stupid things we "thought" we needed for our super sized"McMansion" and using that money towards tools and gear we will need to build our future log home and on our way to being completely debt free and enjoying a simple life....... without the bank's approval :)

You'll fit right in.

[panderson03]

..... if Mama ain't happy, ain't nobody happy.
I can see now you have your head on straight :)

[MPeterson1020]

Well after scouring the internet in search of a log home kit, I stumbled upon LHBA. After only reading a few pages and then a few posts on this forum, I was convinced this is the way to go. My husband quickly agreed. We have been "lurking" the forum for about 6 months now, and finally got the email for the next class...and signed up immediately!! February can't come soon enough!! We both know this is going to be a long, hard, and demanding task to build a log cabin. We aren't afraid of hard work and long hours, but the biggest difficulty we are having right now is all the negativity with family, friends, neighbors, coworkers etc. telling us how foolish we are, how much work it going to be, that we have no idea what we're getting ourselves into.....etc etc. It's to the point that I don't even tell anyone our plans anymore. At first it just fired me up more, and I used it as motivation to "prove them wrong", but some days it gets real old, real quick, and I just get irritated with the silly, uneducated, hurtful remarks. I guess what I'm looking for is some moral support, and everyone on the forum is on the same path and seem real genuine and helpful. I can't wait to get to the OTHER side!!

We have already purchased 160 acres of land, and hubby is already buying and building tools we will need. I'm trying to slow him down because we will learn soooooooo much more in class, but he's raring to get going LOL

Would love to chat with anyone else going to the upcoming class or get any newbie advice from the old pro's on here :)

There are a lot of negative "friends" out there. I just keep reminding myself they don't pay my bills. How I spend my time and money is my business. It can still be discouraging though. Try to look at the big picture... Look 10 years down the road when you have no mortgage and they do.

[rckclmbr428]

I really think after your first build is done you should change your forum name to 2 legit 2 quit....

[rreidnauer]

I second the motion!

[2Determined2Quit]

I really think after your first build is done you should change your forum name to 2 legit 2 quit....

after my first build?? You mean I have to do this more than once?? LOL

[rckclmbr428]

I stopped counting after the first couple dozen.....

[Tracyblott]

I stopped counting after the first couple dozen.....

Jeez I would love to build for a living, may do just that after the 1st one is done and I'm living in it.

[loghousenut]

I'm satisfied just making a career out of this one.



The living part of it is happening simultaneously with the rest of my life.

http://i157.photobucket.com/albums/t55/loghousenut/P1030325_zps0zaxrev1.jpg (http://s157.photobucket.com/user/loghousenut/media/P1030325_zps0zaxrev1.jpg.html)

[2Determined2Quit]

WOW....now that's a pretty impressive doorway!! I absolutely LOVE the glass blocks. I can see why you made a "career" out of building your home....it definitely shows! Just wondering if your boss is waiting to put her door in here? :p

You all inspire me daily!! MANY MANY THANKS!!

[2Determined2Quit]

I stopped counting after the first couple dozen.....

are you pulling my leg?? how many years you been at this??

[rckclmbr428]

I've been building for a while, I stopped counting builds, and started counting states, so far I've built in 20 states, multiple builds in some states. Still really want to build one in Alaska. Getting up there is on my bucket list!

[Prissy Pink]

When I found LHBA last year online. I told my husband. He liked it so we joined up in sbout 3 days and went to the class last spring. We're having a great time building. Just do what you love and do not worry what people say!!!

[Mosseyme]

You don't have to hide what you are doing from those negative people. Just smile and go on. We have stick home builders in our family and they just shake their heads. One is builder of high end home and I would not let him near the build except to visit. We have a hired by the hour helper that just shakes his head at times but then he says well, there is plenty of room for adjusting things since everything is round and nothing is exactly square or plumb. He seems to like coming to help and says thankyou every time we call him. Says he has never had to opportunity to build with real logs. He kept suggesting we could just build up the roof line all the way across. I would just say I know we could do that but this is what we are going to do.n When the roof was done he says wow that is just so much better, like putting a pretty blanket under a saddle. He also paid me a great compliment when he said my wife and I had a lot of difference of opinions when we built our house, the difference is that your wife's ideas are almost alway better. Welcome to the family, and best of luck dealing with those folks. Don't allow them to mess up your friendships. They will see how it works down the road and be amazed at what you acomplished.

[enigmax009]

Well, I took the plunge and booked the trip for the Feb 13th/14th 2016 class. I am a bit nervous that I will be able to soak up all the information in just 24 hours, but I look forward to the challenge and to making some new friends.
I am a 45 year old father of two and grandfather of two. My wife and I live in Cooper City, FL (just outside of Fort Lauderdale, FL). We purchased a 32 acre plot a few years ago in Ashe County, NC just outside of West Jefferson for a retirement property. The property has a beautiful 7 acre meadow with a spectacular view of 3-top Mountain. I have a mental picture of what my dream cabin looks like in my head. My hope is that this class will be the first step in turning my dreams into reality.

I look forward to meeting everyone.

[loghousenut]

Glad to have you aboard. You're too young but glad anyway.

[2Determined2Quit]

Well, I took the plunge and booked the trip for the Feb 13th/14th 2016 class. I am a bit nervous that I will be able to soak up all the information in just 24 hours, but I look forward to the challenge and to making some new friends.
I am a 45 year old father of two and grandfather of two. My wife and I live in Cooper City, FL (just outside of Fort Lauderdale, FL). We purchased a 32 acre plot a few years ago in Ashe County, NC just outside of West Jefferson for a retirement property. The property has a beautiful 7 acre meadow with a spectacular view of 3-top Mountain. I have a mental picture of what my dream cabin looks like in my head. My hope is that this class will be the first step in turning my dreams into reality.

I look forward to meeting everyone.


We'll see you there enigma! Did you wife take the plunge too??

[2Determined2Quit]

Glad to have you aboard. You're too young but glad anyway.

phewwwwwwwwwwww.....Glad I made the cut-off....46 here! The old man coming with me...well, he isn't 46 :p

[LowKey]

Still really want to build one in Alaska. Getting up there is on my bucket list!

Well, I suppose I could let you come up and help me on my place when I get started.
You don't have a problem with camping along the side of a fjord,or eating fresh crab and salmon, do you?

[eduncan911]

Well, I suppose I could let you come up and help me on my place when I get started.
You don't have a problem with camping along the side of a fjord,or eating fresh crab and salmon, do you?

I'll come up there for that!!!

[Mosseyme]

I think we need to have a 2 week cabin raising party for lowkey. Can we find a low cost group rate to get us there!!?
Oh but wait he has to take the class first I guess, or maybe we could make an exception this once, lol.

[LowKey]

I think we need to have a 2 week cabin raising party for lowkey. Can we find a low cost group rate to get us there!!?
Oh but wait he has to take the class first I guess, or maybe we could make an exception this once, lol.

I'm attending the class in Feb 2016.
And while I have NO PROBLEM with the idea of a cabin raising party, in fact I'd welcome all the free labor I could get, let me get a more specific plan together before we kick one off...okay? Right now the property is just raw land, and it's 2 miles by water from the ferry terminal.
Aside from wanting to be sure anyone who came up would have the bare necessities (water, outhouse, food, beer) I'd like to be sure that I could make it...I work overseas most of the year.
BTW, did I mention my wife is Thai and is one hell of a great cook? So not just salmon and crab, but Thai dishes with salmon and crab. :cool:
But yes, cabin raising would be quite cool.

[Tracyblott]

Man that sounds fun.

[rreidnauer]

Too late Lowkey. Ten members already booked flights for next weekend! :-)

[LowKey]

Too late Lowkey. Ten members already booked flights for next weekend! :-)

Well, they'll know they found the place if they see this when standing on my beach ....
http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww310/lowkey1969/GOPR0392wide.jpg
http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww310/lowkey1969/GOPR0392fat.jpg
http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww310/lowkey1969/GOPR0400.jpg
http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww310/lowkey1969/GOPR0388.jpg
http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww310/lowkey1969/GOPR0386.jpg
...or this when they come in by boat...
http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww310/lowkey1969/GOPR0470.jpg

[eduncan911]

(Unpacks fishing rods from storage, starts looking for tent and supplies...)

[rreidnauer]

See? Now it's 11. Man, that is some pretty wilderness.

[Mosseyme]

Is your neighbor ready to sell?
Can you tow your logs in from the public dock? One at a time with a little fishing boat.
And how to you move them to the sight?
I remember from some time ago on a sawmill blog I spent some time on, a guy was going to his way out place in AK using a ferry that was loaded up with is truck his portable sawmill and a lot of other equipment he was going out to build his cabin in the wilderness.
Only to be 10yrs younger!

[LowKey]

Is your neighbor ready to sell?

I don't know. I can keep an eye out for you if you're seriously interested in land up here.

Can you tow your logs in from the public dock? One at a time with a little fishing boat.
Sure can.

And how to you move them to the sight?
Once they're near shore I'd just need a winch (and a few sacrificial logs for ramps). I own that section of beach. :cool:


Only to be 10yrs younger!
You and me, both.
It's not till you get older that you really start to understand the phrase, "Youth is wasted on the young".

[Tracyblott]

I call dibs on squatters rights.

[LowKey]

No squatters rights in AK.
You could stay there for 50 years, and put up a grand lodge....the person with the legal title can walk in and legally boot your ass off without giving you time to pack your bags. AND keep all the nice stuff you'd flown in.


Now, if you talk nice to me I might let ya' camp there while ya' helped me stack some logs. ;)

[loghousenut]

Now, if you talk nice to me I might let ya' camp there while ya' helped me stack some logs. ;)


Could I camp for a week or four and just tell some really cool stories and help out just a little around the place? I'm getting a little long in the tooth and I have aches and pains that really bother me if I act young for a day or two.

Some of them are really good stories the first few times you hear them and most of them are true.

[Mosseyme]

I vote to hire you for the entertainment as long as you let me record and have book produced since we can't talk you into it.

[loghousenut]

We'll have to discuss fees and travel expenses.


You started it.

[Mosseyme]

Ha! yes I guess that would have to be discussed. I guess I would have to figure out my own ability to be there first. Nice to think about though it could be fun. Just promise the spider size mosquitoes will be somewhere else. Been a long time since I tent camped. But with my new back it might be possible. Maybe we could talk Bo into being the financier.

[LowKey]

Could I camp for a week or four and just tell some really cool stories and help out just a little around the place? I'm getting a little long in the tooth and I have aches and pains that really bother me if I act young for a day or two.

Some of them are really good stories the first few times you hear them and most of them are true.

Sure.
Plan for the weather. It changes every few hours:)


Also, don't pet the bears.

[LowKey]

Ha! yes I guess that would have to be discussed. I guess I would have to figure out my own ability to be there first. Nice to think about though it could be fun. Just promise the spider size mosquitoes will be somewhere else. Been a long time since I tent camped. But with my new back it might be possible. Maybe we could talk Bo into being the financier.

If you're serious about this, there are two ways to get there.
Either catch a flight or via the Alaska Marine Highway.
Once I'm on the members side I'll give more details.

[Mosseyme]

We are serious about wanting to. Happening is another thing. You'll get a better picture of interactions between members on the other side. Not beyond all possibilities for us in a couple of years when we are sanded and chinked and windowed and doored, ect,ect. We have been up a couple of times and would love to have and excuse to go back.

[LowKey]

We are serious about wanting to. Happening is another thing. You'll get a better picture of interactions between members on the other side. Not beyond all possibilities for us in a couple of years when we are sanded and chinked and windowed and doored, ect,ect. We have been up a couple of times and would love to have and excuse to go back.

Entirely reasonable.
If I wasn't severely limited in the amount of time I can get off from work in a given year I'd be trying to work on someone else's place for the hands-on experience, but the cost of international tickets and only 30 days or so off in a year I have to focus that time on my place if I ever hope to get it done*.



* By done I mean shell up, roof on, floors laid, doors and windows installed. Enough so I can start putting things inside.
Wiring, plumbing, ect don't righten me, done those before. Neither the wife or I are bothered by the idea of living in a construction site for a few years; we just want to be able to start storing stuff inside without it being destroyed. Been living out of a duffel bags and suitcases the last decade or so, gets old.

[LowKey]

Can it be February yet, please?

[rreidnauer]

Yes, but only if you ship me somewhere tropical first.

[LowKey]

Well, how do you feel about deserts?
I have a special on deserts this week.
Pack lightly and bring a really big first aid kit....

[rreidnauer]

Keep that up, and we'll bump the class back to March. ;-)

[LowKey]

Keep that up, and we'll bump the class back to March. ;-)

:eek::eek::eek:

[loghousenut]

I think that desserts thing will work just fine. Only first aide I'll need it Tums and a nap.


http://i157.photobucket.com/albums/t55/loghousenut/weight-loss-fat-man-ice-cream.jpg (http://s157.photobucket.com/user/loghousenut/media/weight-loss-fat-man-ice-cream.jpg.html)

[mudflap]

Well after scouring the internet in search of a log home kit, I stumbled upon LHBA. After only reading a few pages and then a few posts on this forum, I was convinced this is the way to go. My husband quickly agreed. We have been "lurking" the forum for about 6 months now, and finally got the email for the next class...and signed up immediately!! February can't come soon enough!! We both know this is going to be a long, hard, and demanding task to build a log cabin. We aren't afraid of hard work and long hours, but the biggest difficulty we are having right now is all the negativity with family, friends, neighbors, coworkers etc. telling us how foolish we are, how much work it going to be, that we have no idea what we're getting ourselves into.....etc etc. It's to the point that I don't even tell anyone our plans anymore. At first it just fired me up more, and I used it as motivation to "prove them wrong", but some days it gets real old, real quick, and I just get irritated with the silly, uneducated, hurtful remarks. I guess what I'm looking for is some moral support, and everyone on the forum is on the same path and seem real genuine and helpful. I can't wait to get to the OTHER side!!

We have already purchased 160 acres of land, and hubby is already buying and building tools we will need. I'm trying to slow him down because we will learn soooooooo much more in class, but he's raring to get going LOL

Would love to chat with anyone else going to the upcoming class or get any newbie advice from the old pro's on here :)

Well, I've been lurking for about 10-15 years when I convinced myself that this is the best option. Went through a divorce, got remarried, moved across the country, and changed careers. My wife's had a lot of health problems for the last 2-20 years-I say "2-20 years" because she started trying to recover 2 years ago, but we think her problems started 20 years ago- and we think/hope she's on the tail end of it. Anyway, she decided a few weeks ago that she wants a new house that we build ourselves to avoid "construction chemicals". She's convinced that this is the best option. Yesterday, I told her what you said about the negativity with family, friends, etc, and she agrees that we should keep our plans secret for now. We went through all the negativity and disbelief from family, friends, and church people when we announced that we had cured our daughter's autism, which was the hardest thing either one of us has ever done. So now, since we've already been labeled conspiracy theorists by our "friends", and our kids classmates think we're hippies, we're looking at student log homes, and we're thinking, "we can do this."

It's also bittersweet, because even though I'm going, my best friend (who was planning on going with me to the class and was my go-to guy for electrical, plumbing, concrete, roofing, stairs, etc, etc, etc!), died this year from cancer. He was so excited about the idea of building a mortgage-free log home when I showed it to him, that he spent every night for a week reading all the blogs, studying the photos, and getting ideas. February will be the 1 year anniversary of his death.

Anyway, can't wait to meet everybody! I'll be the red-head mathematician from Alabama.

[loghousenut]

There's no rush Mudflap... Well that's what we said before your Buddy died. I think I, as much as anyone, can take a lesson from this. Life is short and getting shorter all the time.




Raw logs. Untreated lumber for flooring, framing, and walls. LHBA mortar mix for chinking... No construction chemicals. The place will be a clean as you folks make it.

[2Determined2Quit]

Sorry to hear of your friends untimely death. It was the death of my husbands brother and best friend that has shown us that life is just too damn short, and has motivated us to do this!!

Unfortunately sometimes the hardest life lessons are taught in tragedy, but it's what we bring from those lessons that moves us forward.

Looking forward to meeting you!

[eduncan911]

As for Green building, that's one of the key reasons I picked this design as well.

But, I advise people to pickup a few Green Building booms and read through them to understand exactly what off-fumes and what doesn't.

For example: a lot of log homes have a pretty shiny interior. There are Dos and Don'ts when it comes to picking the right stains, and applying them, and what types. Don't be convinced by the manufacturers "green" marketing.

One such book I reference because it is a good high-level overview is Green from the Ground Up:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/156158973X/

I then take a concept and dig more into then.

[Strongbow]

Determined,
I went to the 11/11 class. Long before my wife and I were married, long before we were engaged, long before there was enough money for both of us to go…
We'll be there in 02/16!!! All three of us! Got our class tickets and our hotel reservations. Had but cancelled plane tickets. Reason? Left MI for NYC. Preparing to move back to MI by 12/31/15.
Don't let yourselves get discouraged! Be the weirdoes, the freaks of society, the outcasts, and right at home here, with your other log home building brethren (or aspirants)!
My wife, my daughter (21 months by then), and I will see you in class!

- Mike

[mudflap]

Raw logs. Untreated lumber for flooring, framing, and walls. LHBA mortar mix for chinking... No construction chemicals. The place will be a clean as you folks make it.

That's what I'm talking about. Thank you for your kind words.

[twh4]

You think 45 is young? My girlfriend and I will be attending and we are both 22! Just signed up and are super excited. Trying to find decent rates for plane and hotel all the way from New Jersey. So look for us youngins and say hey!

[LowKey]

You think 45 is young? My girlfriend and I will be attending and we are both 22! Just signed up and are super excited. Trying to find decent rates for plane and hotel all the way from New Jersey. So look for us youngins and say hey!

22? I can't clearly remember 22.
Good for the both of you....the sooner you start this endeavor the sooner you'll be able to start enjoying a life that doesn't involve worrying about spending most of your waking hours working to keep a roof over your head.

What part of Jersey, and is that where you hope to build????

[twh4]

22? I can't clearly remember 22.
Good for the both of you....the sooner you start this endeavor the sooner you'll be able to start enjoying a life that doesn't involve worrying about spending most of your waking hours working to keep a roof over your head.

What part of Jersey, and is that where you hope to build????


Yea that's the plan! We are from North Jersey in West Milford. I plan on building in the Hudson Valley/Catskill region of New York so I can still commute to work in north Jersey.

[John W]

twh4, I was born in Hudson, NY. Family had a house about 3/4 mile from the Hudson river, with meadow and forest between us and it. Catskill Mountains on the horizon, looking west, great sunsets. Could see the river \ / this much between the trees. All in all, wouldn't mind having that house still in the family.

[twh4]

twh4, I was born in Hudson, NY. Family had a house about 3/4 mile from the Hudson river, with meadow and forest between us and it. Catskill Mountains on the horizon, looking west, great sunsets. Could see the river \ / this much between the trees. All in all, wouldn't mind having that house still in the family.

That is my dream. It is beautiful up there. Would really love to build up in the Adirondacks but not many engineering jobs up there that I can find... haha. I have always been the type of person that if I see something that I want but it's too expensive, then I make it myself. So the next big step is a house! Cannot wait to get to the class and learn how to start my new adventure! I will be starting a new thread to show my desired floor plans (I KNOW.. they will most likely change after the class due to tips and tricks but it is coming along and I think attainable) and get feedback from people. Hopefully later on today or early next week I will be posting this.

[eduncan911]

Welcome twh4.

As you know, I am also building in the Hudson valley. Though land prices kept me far away from anything related to a river.

(twh4 doesn't know it yet; but, he's going to be peeling logs in month or two). :)

[twh4]

Welcome twh4.

As you know, I am also building in the Hudson valley. Though land prices kept me far away from anything related to a river.

(twh4 doesn't know it yet; but, he's going to be peeling logs in month or two). :)

Yea I figured riverfront prices would be astronomical.. Oh well even just a nice creek will work! And I guess the cat's out of the bag! haha. Can't wait to come up and see your property and help peel!

[2Determined2Quit]

Determined,
I went to the 11/11 class. Long before my wife and I were married, long before we were engaged, long before there was enough money for both of us to go…
We'll be there in 02/16!!! All three of us! Got our class tickets and our hotel reservations. Had but cancelled plane tickets. Reason? Left MI for NYC. Preparing to move back to MI by 12/31/15.
Don't let yourselves get discouraged! Be the weirdoes, the freaks of society, the outcasts, and right at home here, with your other log home building brethren (or aspirants)!
My wife, my daughter (21 months by then), and I will see you in class!

- Mike

Looking forward to meeting you and your family Mike. But I have a question...if you just took the course a few years ago, why do you think you need it again?? Do you get a better rate if you are already a member? Either way, glad you got your wife on board and thanks for the advice...we continue to be the "outcasts" and just smile and nod to all the "suggestions" we get from all the people that haven't built a darn thing, let alone a log home. Sheeeeeesh, there sure are a LOT of smart people out there!!! I can only hope to be as wise as them someday....probably Feb 15th, 2016. (sorry for the sarcasm, but it keeps me sane most days).

On a good note...we went up to our land last weekend and spoke with the RM administrator....they don't require building permits, engineered plans, blueprints, inspections, NOTHING!!! However, they did suggest that we should probably follow building codes for our own safety LOL..... BEST NEWS EVER!!! I was horrified reading the costs of the permits, inspections, etc on this forum!!! OUCH!! So, on the advice of a friendly "neighbor" we are going to build as quickly as possible cause that will be sure to change!! I still can't believe it's true?!$%^?

[2Determined2Quit]

You think 45 is young? My girlfriend and I will be attending and we are both 22! Just signed up and are super excited. Trying to find decent rates for plane and hotel all the way from New Jersey. So look for us youngins and say hey!

That's great twh4!! I have a daughter your age, and I would love to give her the gift of attending the class someday!! You are decades ahead of most of us....good on ya!!

[Strongbow]

Looking forward to meeting you and your family Mike. But I have a question...if you just took the course a few years ago, why do you think you need it again?? Do you get a better rate if you are already a member? Either way, glad you got your wife on board and thanks for the advice...we continue to be the "outcasts" and just smile and nod to all the "suggestions" we get from all the people that haven't built a darn thing, let alone a log home. Sheeeeeesh, there sure are a LOT of smart people out there!!! I can only hope to be as wise as them someday....probably Feb 15th, 2016. (sorry for the sarcasm, but it keeps me sane most days).

On a good note...we went up to our land last weekend and spoke with the RM administrator....they don't require building permits, engineered plans, blueprints, inspections, NOTHING!!! However, they did suggest that we should probably follow building codes for our own safety LOL..... BEST NEWS EVER!!! I was horrified reading the costs of the permits, inspections, etc on this forum!!! OUCH!! So, on the advice of a friendly "neighbor" we are going to build as quickly as possible cause that will be sure to change!! I still can't believe it's true?!$%^?

I have a friend who used to do stick frame construction. My new rule with these people is to never ever talk to them about log homes. It can get ugly.

As far as why I'm taking the class again: 1) the last time I went, there was only enough money for one of us to go. Since my wife's hearing isn't the greatest, the logical choice was me. 2) Since this will be our home and we will be living in it together, we might as well take every single step together. 3) Meeting other builders!!! What better reason is there, really? :)

[loghousenut]

I have a friend who used to do stick frame construction. My new rule with these people is to never ever talk to them about log homes. It can get ugly.

As far as why I'm taking the class again: 1) the last time I went, there was only enough money for one of us to go. Since my wife's hearing isn't the greatest, the logical choice was me. 2) Since this will be our home and we will be living in it together, we might as well take every single step together. 3) Meeting other builders!!! What better reason is there, really? :)

I never thought taking the class more than once was a bad idea.

If you want to feel like you are getting your moneys worth, you could get married again while you are in Vegas. I hear you can get rehitched by Elvis wearing a Ghostbusters costume in front of a cardboard photo of Disneyland. Free little cut up sandwiches when you are all done.

[panderson03]

I wonder how you know that, Mr Nut...

[loghousenut]

Three times... First time was back before you was born. Last time I proposed to the Boss the night before we went together to class.

No Vegas back there so no pressure to go goofy on the Wedding. Married on the porch of a log outhouse instead.

[LowKey]

Three times... First time was back before you was born. Last time I proposed to the Boss the night before we went together to class.

No Vegas back there so no pressure to go goofy on the Wedding. Married on the porch of a log outhouse instead.
Have you finished the wedding ceremony yet, or are you still working on that as well?
I mean, just to enjoy the experience......:p

[loghousenut]

Ceremony is done but for the past 26 years I have not been granted a permanent Certificate of Occupancy.

Every time I request an inspection, the darned code changes.

[mudflap]

So, we drew some plans, and are looking for some land. I have a few questions:
1. I remember the old forum used to advise against buying land before taking the class- but I can't find that now, so has that advice changed?
2. The FAQ's say you can buy home plans from the association for $1700- that seems like a lot, and why wouldn't that be included in the class?

[loghousenut]

Most of us seem to think you might be better off waiting on the land til after class. I know, for me, the LHBA class changed a lot about how I looked at a lot of my life.

I don't recall what the LHBA plans cost, but I sure wish woulda used them. They are a bargain and they work the way this system of building works.

[Mosseyme]

The plans available in class are full set engineered blueprints, not just some drawings.

[rreidnauer]

Best to wait on any large monetary purchases until you have all data possible to make an informed decision. But that's not to say that if a smokin' deal comes along beforehand, that you shouldn't take action.

Well, let me put it this way, I designed and drew up my own plans in 2D and 3D, and had an architect add final touches and print out to satisfy the building department, and it still cost $2000. I'd say someone doing all the work for 1700 is pretty dang good. Oh, and my plans are licensed for one time use. LHBA's are unlimited use.

[LowKey]

Ceremony is done but for the past 26 years I have not been granted a permanent Certificate of Occupancy.

Every time I request an inspection, the darned code changes.

;);););) I've heard about that issue.

[bkinmore]

Aloha everyone:)
These forums were my deciding factor in signing up for this class. What a great bunch of people. Thought I was the only nutcase out there. Haha.
I'm from Hawaii, but intend on moving to Washington State. Most likely narrowing it down to the Snoqualmie area. Been in cookie cutter stick homes my whole life. Looking to get out if that box and into a log box :) Thanks to all you LHBA members for your posts. It helped me make the right decision. Those kit home advertisements looked so good, but the more I read LHBA, the more I believe we all can do this. I'm scared, nervous, and very excited! Look forward to meeting y'all.
I'm taking the forum's advice and am not telling anyone, and not buying anything until I take the class. I have zero building experience, so this will be interesting.

[rreidnauer]

You have a fellow Hawaiian/Washington resident already on these forums. I'm sure he'll speak up when he reads your post.

[outdoorcountryboy]

lol, this group of peopele are diffenantly my kind of fokes. I think 2D2Q and I have a lot of the same friends. The ones that say "your crazy, no way, your going to regret it, that cant be done, only professionals can build that kind of house" Well let me tell you guys and gals something. Ive been told that my whole life, Im now 54 and have been self-employed since I was 25. I retired 3 years ago. I guess doing all that wrong stuff didnt get me anywhere, lol. anyway, Im not bragging just reminding people that its all about your attitude and determination. If you want to build a log house then do it. Im signed up for the second class in Feb 2016. Im looking forward to learning and meeting new like minded people. I've got plans to build a 2700sq ft log house on top of a full basement and Im dang well gona do it. Good luck to everyone and lets lay some logs.

[mudflap]

Well, we broke the news yesterday during thanksgiving dinner at my in-laws that we are going to build a log home. My FIL admitted that he's always wanted to build a log home. I think he's sort of proud of us. My BIL owns a swing dance band- he plays bass, MIL plays piano, FIL plays alto, while I play bari sax. We practice Thursdays in the in-laws tiny dining room, so we shared our design, and mentioned that we'll have plenty of room for the band. But they're not going to be much help-
In-laws are pushing 70, while BIL has blood pressure issues. So they were nice about it, but we'll still have to be doing this ourselves. I also talked to 2 lenders- they both said "no" (unless we have a contractor build it for us. They specifically require that the owner it's not the builder). So I was a little depressed about that. Until I sat down with Google and priced everything according to our plan (36x48). Then I got excited: as long as I can get my logs for free, rough in work will be about $10k- which includes all the tools- including a sawmill. And finishing should be about $25k. I have enough in savings to do the rough in, and with tax returns and a monthly "house payment" contribution of $300, I'm expecting a 2 year build with a few thousand in the positive left over at the end.
Let me emphasize that I realize a lot of things will change after I take the class (I'm sure there will be tips on saving money that I haven't thought of) on February 14-15, but it's still good to sit down and see that, at least on paper, and with limited info, it's still possible to build a mortgage-free log home.

[panderson03]

mudflap, I love your enthusiasm :)
congratulations on breaking it to the outlaws; you are very brave!

[rocklock]

I'm now 54 and have been self-employed since I was 25. I retired 3 years ago.

If you want to build a log house then do it.

I've got plans to build a 2700sq ft log house on top of a full basement

You may want to review the plans offered by the association. They are generally offered at a steep discount after the class.... The class will change the way you think about your log home...

[rocklock]

In-laws are pushing 70, while BIL has blood pressure issues.
I also talked to 2 lenders. (36x48).

I'm expecting a 2 year build with a few thousand in the positive left over at the end.

ld a mortgage-free log home.

Several things... I am 71 and still working on my log home... even with a broken Femur...

Do not get a mortgage. They will require you to finish in one year... and you will not...

Live in or on the property... get everyone on board...

We have several was to speed up the build... Where are you going to get 60 foot logs?

Think about taper of a 40 foot log vice 60 foot log!

This is why the class is important...

[mudflap]

Several things... I am 71 and still working on my log home... even with a broken Femur...

Do not get a mortgage. They will require you to finish in one year... and you will not...

Live in or on the property... get everyone on board...

We have several was to speed up the build... Where are you going to get 60 foot logs?

Think about taper of a 40 foot log vice 60 foot log!

This is why the class is important...
I think the class will most likely change my mind on a lot of things. That's ok. The mortgage would only be on the land, and you're right- the longest construction loan I could find was 9 months. Just have to wait for the class, I guess... (remember the commercial where they stand outside the store during Christmas and say "open, open, open, open"? Yeah. That.)

[mudflap]

anybody on FB and wanna be friends? or is that discouraged here? I'm billhill1_at_yahoo . com (use the 'at' symbol, of course)

[rckclmbr428]

I'm on Facebook both as myself and as a builder

[Tracyblott]

im on facebook the more friends the better id say'

[mudflap]

im on facebook the more friends the better id say'
Cool! I can't find you to send a friend request. I'm in Huntsville, AL

[Tracyblott]

Try Tracy Lott, im in Lubbock tx. im not the best a puter stuffs.

[Tracyblott]

Ronnie send me a request as well please sir i didnt know you were on facebook.

[twh4]

Everybody attending the Feb. 13+14 class... Check your email! On 02/04/16 at 02:00 EST, the LHBA emailed everyone attending the class informing of a hotel change due to the hotel booking a very noisy event in the next room. The email asks everybody going to respond to the email so they know that everyone got the news. See everyone next weekend!

-Tyler

[LowKey]

Got it, canceled my room at Harrah's and booked one at the new venue.
Can we try an not change hotels again between now and then, okay? :P

[2Determined2Quit]

Everybody attending the Feb. 13+14 class... Check your email! On 02/04/16 at 02:00 EST, the LHBA emailed everyone attending the class informing of a hotel change due to the hotel booking a very noisy event in the next room. The email asks everybody going to respond to the email so they know that everyone got the news. See everyone next weekend!

-Tyler

OHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH....I'm so excited I almost peed a little when you said "see everyone next weekend"!!!! LOL

What seemed like forever to get here...is now coming too fast!!

Unfortunately we can't change our hotel reservations cause it was booked as a package, but can't wait to take the class!

[mudflap]

Talked to my sister last night: confirmed staying with my niece at her new house in Henderson. So I'm set. Excited, too!

[panderson03]

I love your enthusiasm:)

[enigmax009]

My name is Jim and I will be attending the Feb Class from South Florida. I purchased 32 acres in North Carolina a few years back and plan to build my own cabin.
I currently live in Fort Lauderdale, FL and wondered if anyone has ever built using Palm Trees? I guess there is a first time for everything.

I look forward to meeting some new friends in Vegas, next weekend!!

[rreidnauer]

Palm has very, very poor characteristics. There is a reason you never seen that done, even in poor tropic countries.

[LowKey]

Also, Palm isn't a tree. It's a grass.
Just sayin'...

[NWscott]

wondered if anyone has ever built using Palm Trees? I guess there is a first time for everything.



Bamboo seemed to work for Gilligan and the Skipper. (Bamboo is also a grass, LowKey)
No need for chinking in that tropical climate. ;)

[loghousenut]

Also, Palm isn't a tree. It's a grass.
Just sayin'...

So Palm Nuts are really Grass Nuts?

[LowKey]

Well, grass seeds, yes. ;)

Why....are you planning on seeding some grass? A slow growing variety I would guess? ;)

[LowKey]

Bamboo seemed to work for Gilligan and the Skipper. (Bamboo is also a grass, LowKey)

Yes it is, and it's delicious!! Love those young shoots.

There are some very nice cultivars for construction use, very, very big. Moso is one.

[Mosseyme]

I LOVE this web site. I have not been looking for a better air freshener but it looks like I have found one. Never heard of Moso air freshener bags until I looked up LowKey's post Moso. Thank you very much. I need this for our Shanty house in a big way.

[allen84]

I LOVE this web site. I have not been looking for a better air freshener but it looks like I have found one. Never heard of Moso air freshener bags until I looked up LowKey's post Moso. Thank you very much. I need this for our Shanty house in a big way.

This might be even better :D https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZKLnhuzh9uY

[Mosseyme]

When I say Shanty house I am speaking of the little shack we stay in while working on the log house. So yes we might need the spray but the Moso is for moisture and mold too. I keep a waste basket of charcoal in there and it helps some with the moisture but I will try the Moso I think.

[No Regrets]

Hi everyone , NO REGRETS aka- Keith here. My wife 2DETERMIND2QUIT aka- Mel. We will have Thursday and Friday (Feb 11th and 12th) to ourselves before the course, anyone want to get together for a drink or two an early meet and greet ??

[LowKey]

Hi everyone , NO REGRETS aka- Keith here. My wife 2DETERMIND2QUIT aka- Mel. We will have Thursday and Friday (Feb 11th and 12th) to ourselves before the course, anyone want to get together for a drink or two an early meet and greet ??

Maybe.
We'll be arriving very late on the 11th, and have all day on the 12th to ourselves as well.....but she and I haven't seen each other in 6 months. WE may end up using most of the 12th for "private time". :D In any case, I don't see why we couldn't have a few drinks and say hello!
Will your wife be attending the class? Mine isn't.

[No Regrets]

Maybe.
We'll be arriving very late on the 11th, and have all day on the 12th to ourselves as well.....but she and I haven't seen each other in 6 months. WE may end up using most of the 12th for "private time". :D In any case, I don't see why we couldn't have a few drinks and say hello!
Will your wife be attending the class? Mine isn't.
Yes my wife Mel will be there , she is the brains I'm the braun lol

[LowKey]

ARRGHH!
Missed my flight this morning, had to rebook one tonight.

[rreidnauer]

You crazy nut! Go camp at the gate so that doesn't happen again.

[LowKey]

You crazy nut! Go camp at the gate so that doesn't happen again.

I didn't oversleep....passport disappeared from it's usual storage location.
I'll be there in time for the class, but I'm going to miss out on having all day on the 12th with my wife.:mad:

[Mosseyme]

Here is to a great weekend ahead. Turn the memory tank on. Have fun. Don't forget to ask for your member account when you are done and also to post your site on the location map. Ask questions but if you wait about 30 min when a question comes to mind it will probably be answered in that time. The guys are so patient with the questions that they know they will answer in a minute or thirty anyway and I think they like seeing the click that is happening to instigate the questions.

[panderson03]

have fun everyone.
go in well fed and well rested so you're ready to absorb the knowledge.
I'm sort of envious of you all; that weekend was life-changing for us:)

can't wait to see you on the other side.

[Nicolas]

have fun everyone.
go in well fed and well rested so you're ready to absorb the knowledge.
I'm sort of envious of you all; that weekend was life-changing for us:)

can't wait to see you on the other side.

This is exaclty what I wanted to say!

Enjoy it, take note, don't be shy to ask question, take the most of these days!!

[mudflap]

Finished the class last night. Then drive to st George to stay with my sister. Talked to my wife about the class all the way there (2 hour drive). The techniques, tips, and tricks were amazingly simple. Loved the class. But It's not so much about the know how to me- stacking logs is pretty straight forward- it's really about the philosophy of building debt free. To me, it's a way of life. And seeing Ellsworth and Steve- 2 regularly dressed guys teaching a class about independence- that was really the lesson I learned. If I were to give the class a title, I'd call it "the independent living" class.

[rreidnauer]

I believe you picked up the principal message the class intends to teach.

[John W]

Class was great and met or exceeded my expectations in all areas. But since I've been lurking for four or five years, class was built up to something approaching mythical, so it was pretty hard to meet expectations. And it did. All the details, all the techniques I've been looking for. Plus, member-side access for any other questions. Glad to be a part of this organization. And how about the little girl that hardly made a peep in two VERY long days?!?

[rreidnauer]

. . . . And how about the little girl that hardly made a peep in two VERY long days?!?
Amazingly enough, there are still a few parents out there who teach their children discipline.

Good hearing the class met your high expectations, and hopefully those on the fence may read your words. ("is this a scam?" questions have gotten really monotonous, though in this day and age, are understandable)

[loghousenut]

And how about the little girl that hardly made a peep in two VERY long days?!?


That was Ellsworth, the shy and reserved.





Glad you came through, John.

[LowKey]

And how about the little girl that hardly made a peep in two VERY long days?!?

You're not kidding.
Over two days of class I doubt she made more than 5 minutes of loud noise cumulatively. Amazingly well behaved for a babe-in-arms. Also some very responsible parents. Hat's off to both of them.


Enjoyed the class, wish it was a 3 day course but then it would be far more difficult for people to attend.
Tragedy struck a few times when the coffee urn ran dry, but the cornucopia of caffeine was soon replenished.

[John W]

I get the whole discipline thing, (people routinely complimented us on our three kid's behavior in restaurants) but this little girl was 21 months old!

[John W]

I get the whole discipline thing, (people routinely complimented us on our three kid's behavior in restaurants) but this little girl was 21 months old!

Where were you sitting LowKey?

[LowKey]

Front row, 1st seat in from the center aisle on the left hand side (as viewed from the student tables).

I was the guy in the vest who's building in Alaska,

[rreidnauer]

I get the whole discipline thing, (people routinely complimented us on our three kid's behavior in restaurants) but this little girl was 21 months old!
OK, THAT is impressive.

I bet she'll be the roudy LHN type later in life. [emoji6]

[John W]

LowKey, sure, vest guy. I was back row on the other side. The grey haired oldest looking guy in my row bearded guy.

[NWscott]

Glad to hear that the class went well. I'm signed up for this coming weekend and very excited about it!

Just out of curiosity, about how many people on average are in each class?

So Vest guy, Grey haired guy, and Bearded guy... Apparently nobody wears name tags during these classes? ;)

[LowKey]

Nope, it's not a "name tag" sort of event, more like a gathering of independent cusses who want the least amount of labeling and bothering by others as is possible.

[John W]

NWScott, there were about 100, a little bigger than I expected. Come early and stake your territory. I was there 8:01 first day and wound up in the back row. Lots of folks there early, ready to learn. No bad seats though, text and video easy to see. Good set up. Good audio.

[LiveFree]

Hi all, Jim here from New Hampshire (live free or die state). I was sitting front row, 1st seat in from the center aisle on the right hand side (as viewed from the student tables). Class was packed with information. My day job is office work, finance - which is miles and miles away from skinning logs w a spud. Class was helpful providing a scope of all that is involved in building a log home. Honestly I was blown away by end of first day questioning what I was doing in that room... could I ever build a log home? So much to learn. But excellent instructors taught us "Skip butt pass" technique - strong, practical, and proven - this appeals to my nature. I took 50 pages of notes! (Lots of white space but still!). Would enjoy sharing knowledge with LHBA members. Would also like to meet local (NH, VT, ME, MA) members who have or intend to build log home. I plan on spending next 90days looking at property, planning a design that makes sense for me, investigating log acquisition using tips covered in class. Wish I could have meet more class mates, but those I did meet were great. Stay in touch!
Jim

[LowKey]

I think that if travel and time off from work wasn't such a killer, most attendees would happily donate a week or two of labor to the other class attendees.

For those that live in the lower 48 and within driving distance of each other, schedule and co-ordinate your builds. Independence is worth it.

[mudflap]

Hi! Anybody from the Feb 13-14 class get access to the members area / private forums yet? Does it take a while? I want to peruse the forums before I decide on buying plans, but my coupon code is only good until March. I emailed Ellsworth and Steve, haven't heard back yet...

[sdart]

Yes, they're all over there posting away... We expect to see you there any minute!

[LowKey]

Hi! Anybody from the Feb 13-14 class get access to the members area / private forums yet? Does it take a while? I want to peruse the forums before I decide on buying plans, but my coupon code is only good until March. I emailed Ellsworth and Steve, haven't heard back yet...

Yup, I'm in. Took about 2 days after sending the request. Be patient, they had a class the weekend after ours to deal with and I'm sure there was some make-up session related to missing Valentine's Day with their bosses. Sorry, I meant significant others.;)

[donjuedo]

Hi! Anybody from the Feb 13-14 class get access to the members area / private forums yet? Does it take a while? I want to peruse the forums before I decide on buying plans, but my coupon code is only good until March. I emailed Ellsworth and Steve, haven't heard back yet...

Hi, mudflap. Did you send a request? Just so you know, access is not automatic.


Peter

[rckclmbr428]

Admins are probably being inundated with requests, they'll get to you and then we'll see you on the inside!

[John W]

I got in only after emailing Admin. I'd received my email notification that my account was good, but it didn't work for two days. They'd made some kind of mistake, quickly corrected, and I was in.

[mudflap]

Update: yes, I sent a request on the second day of class. I heard back from Steve last night, he said they must have missed my request, so I sent it again last night.

[panderson03]

welcome to the dark side, Mudflap:)

[Strongbow]

And how about the little girl that hardly made a peep in two VERY long days?!?

You're not kidding.
Over two days of class I doubt she made more than 5 minutes of loud noise cumulatively. Amazingly well behaved for a babe-in-arms. Also some very responsible parents. Hat's off to both of them.

I get the whole discipline thing, (people routinely complimented us on our three kid's behavior in restaurants) but this little girl was 21 months old!

OK, THAT is impressive.

I bet she'll be the roudy LHN type later in life.



After 11 very hard days (3 days after the class was over, I gave birth to our stillborn son) this brought tears of joys to my eyes. Thank you for the kind words. We try. On the plane ride home she said "log" for the first time. I have LHBA to proudly to blame for that. I wish the class was longer too.

Strongbow and Wife.
P.S. Any way we can change the handler? We both use this handler, and I am pure lazy. When I, The Wife, type I don't want to sign the wife. lol. If not oh well, I will go make some lemonade.

[Mosseyme]

Wow, So very sorry for your loss. Welcome to this family. I hope we can somehow be here and help through the grief process. It sounds like you have a wonderful little girl and family.

[rreidnauer]

Terribly sorry for you.

As for your own screen name, you can create your own by signing up as a new user. (sign out of "Strongbow" and register as a new user) Then contact admin with your class details, and they will grant you member access.

(and see, your little girl is already half way to LHN status) ;-)

[LowKey]

Terribly sorry for you.

As for your own screen name, you can create your own by signing up as a new user. (sign out of "Strongbow" and register as a new user) Then contact admin with your class details, and they will grant you member access.

(and see, your little girl is already half way to LHN status) ;-)

I'll sponsor your little girl here and now. I remember her beautiful piercing blue eyes. She is a LHBA member without a doubt....she attended the entire class. Even Steve was impressed by her.



I nominate her for membership, despite her "junior" status.

Do I hear a second?

[panderson03]

I second the motion:)

[John W]

So sorry for your loss, Strongbow and Wife.

I too think your daughter should be a member. Attended class, and didn't slow the class down a single time with questions!

[Strongbow]

Thank you all for the kind words. We were worried that she was going to be bothersome, but was really good. She loves books and learning. And since my husband attended in 2011, we had an "extra" book so she colored in the old one. She loved it. Thank you for calling us good parents, we don't feel we do anything different or special, She is that self controlled. We just praise her. For Example, because she was so good, she got to play with real McCaws outside downstairs. But again, thank you.

Wife.

[donjuedo]

"Wife", as an alternative solution to the handle question, you could be Strongbow, and he could be "Husband". :-)

[Strongbow]

"Wife", as an alternative solution to the handle question, you could be Strongbow, and he could be "Husband". :-)

lol, nah he was a member first.