January 2012 Log Home Class

[John17three]

Congrats to those who'll go to the 2012 class in Vegas! You'll have fun and learn lots. Book your flights early! Check with regional carriers, Allegiant Air, Spirit Airlines and so on. Got our tickets for $250 per person round trip. : -)

Anybody already reserved your spot in class?

[Jane Doe]

"A bend in the road is not the end of the road... unless you fail to make the turn."

[Jane Doe]

I realized just now that I may not have been clear in my post.

What I should have written was that I'VE REGISTERED!!!

And that I'm beyond happy to be traveling this new direction :)

[edkemper]

Jane,

Your excitement is only a cinder. Just wait until you try to sleep Saturday night of the class weekend.

Waiting to get to know you on the other side as our newest sister.

[jaxsnyder]

Jane,

Your excitement is only a cinder. Just wait until you try to sleep Saturday night of the class weekend.

Waiting to get to know you on the other side as our newest sister.

Jane Doe: You said you registered where is it posted? I don't see it on the website?

[Jane Doe]

Heya Jax,

I got an email but have since deleted it. Truthfully, I didn't even really read it. It said something about a JAN class and I dove for the link to sign up. My apologies for not having any more info than that. I'd encourage you to email info@loghomebuilders.org for accurate information.

Jane

[jaxsnyder]

Thank you I have been axiously waiting to hear of the next class! I am just glad that there is one and hoping we can make it happen!!!

[ncgator]

Jax,

The Jan 2012 class is now on the LHBA store link off of the main LHBA site. The direct link is:
http://mechanicaltransfer.com

Jim

[jaxsnyder]

Jax,

The Jan 2012 class is now on the LHBA store link off of the main LHBA site. The direct link is:
http://mechanicaltransfer.com

Jim

thanks for the link

[Jane Doe]

The days are passing soooooo slowly :(

[rckclmbr428]

It's like Christmas in January!

[Jane Doe]

RckClmbr,

You're in the Blue Ridge Mountains?? I drove the Sky Line section on my way to raft the Gauley in West Virginia last Columbus Day. Wish I had known about this then so I could have stopped in to say hello!

[rckclmbr428]

Funny you should mention, I am about 10 min. from the blue ridge parkway, but am currently looking for land up in the New River Gorge area of WV to build a weekend cabin on. I love that area, best climbing in the east, and tons of good paddling, the gauley, the new, the meadow, all within 30 min. of each other, who could ask for more? your up in the Catskills? I put Bill Lacrosses place under roof this fall, theres a pretty good contingency of LHBA people in western NY/ Rochester area

[buck_cooper]

Just signed up last night. Ready to go.
Buck

[Jane Doe]

Woot, woot! Wonderful to see another lively personality in for the ride!

[buck_cooper]

Looking forward to meeting everyone in person!

[alaskabound633]

Save me a spot.
I can't sign up till Dec. 16th. Have been waiting for 5+ years now, finally my time to go. Yee Haw..

[Jane Doe]

Where in southeast Alaska? My silent love affair with Alaska began with the Ketchikan/Sitka cruise trip a few years ago. Went hiking in the Alaskan Rainforest. Saw humongous salmon and small bears. Kayaked up to a receding glacier. So many Bald Eagles. Alaska is in my future somewhere, I just know it.

[alaskabound633]

Hi Jane Doe,
I am thrilled to hear another person so excited about Alaska.
The spot I chose is in Edna Bay. It's about 90 miles NW of Ketchican. It's in the Tongass National Rain Forest.
Only 50 people on the island. Lots of Black Bear, wolf and deer. There's even a boardwalk that goes from my property thru State Forest to the beach 400 feet away.
Seen you are registered, great! I'll bring some pictures to the class.
I'll be looking for people to come up and help build, interested?

[jrdavis]

alaskabound ---
NOW you're talking.
I took a son to Alaska on a fishing trip in july 2001.
Wow. I've tried and TRIED and T_R_I_E_D to get my wife to go, but its too far from Nebraska for her tastes.
I felw into Anchorage , drove the Hiway to Fairbanks (saw Russia from my car door.... :+} ) and then took a float plane 1 hour and 20 minutes to a private lake, NW of Faribanks.
What a great time.
Welcome and let us know when you start to build... Maybe I'll use some frequent flyer miles and come up.
JD

[173rd ABN]

Hi I'm James, and I just signed up for January. My wife and I are near Lynchburg, VA. Money and jobs being what they are, it will only be myself attending. We have been looking at ways to get and stay debt free "including mortgages". I saw Skips sight a few years ago but there were no classes going on. Then a few days ago I saw that classes where being held again. We plan on building in the next 3-4 years if the economy holds together that long.

[panderson03]

173rd ABN, huh? my husband was 101st.

welcome to LHBA. you won't regret taking the class. it was a life-changer for us. again, welcome aboard!

[blane]

James,
Welcome to the LHBA! I think you have found a way to fulfill your dream of debt free living here. But it doesn't come without a price "hard work" but my guess is you are not afraid of that. Take lots of notes, even if you think some info is not important to your particular situation.
Hi I'm James, and I just signed up for January. My wife and I are near Lynchburg, VA. Money and jobs being what they are, it will only be myself attending. We have been looking at ways to get and stay debt free "including mortgages". I saw Skips sight a few years ago but there were no classes going on. Then a few days ago I saw that classes where being held again. We plan on building in the next 3-4 years if the economy holds together that long.

[buck_cooper]

Hello everyone.
I got a flight booked for around $300 round trip with the times I wanted, leaving Colorado Springs. 3 nights stay at the imperial was only $182.. Not too bad, really looking forward to the class. Lots of California talk in the forum. I grew up in Montana. Spent the last 12 years in Santa Rosa,CA. It has some really nice advantages, like mild weather year round. All winter long it rains and is chilly and foggy. Some folks say they stay in CA because it has low humidity, not in the winter, when it is foggy and below 60 degrees, it is cold. Plus you make a boat load of money and all the RULES, cost money, high taxes, license fees, sales tax, permits. It goes on and on. The good does not outway the bads. My wife and I saw our friends build new houses in the area, where the permits fees and a city lot cost the same amound as the house itself. In my opinion that is nuts. So I started looking at jobs all over the country. Our goal was some place with about 30 million less people, cheaper cost of living , and if possible good old midwest values. I think we found it in Colorado Springs. The weather is simular to Montana, but winter is only a few months long, low snow and short busts of cold. The humidity is very low and even in 40 degrees, with bright sunshine, it is shirt sleeve weather. It is much slower pace of life than CA. Once you are out of that state for a while, you really don't want to go back.The crazy traffic, waiting in line everywhere makes you crazy and grouchy. In our case we moved to the Springs as the locals call it. I make slightly more than in CA, my wife can stay home because the cost of rent is half of what ca was. I think it is the best of both worlds.I am a service manager for a local construction equipment dealer. Most of my mechanics have their wives at home, because they can afford to be. I personally think the basics of family life took a huge dive when the wives had to work outside of the home to make ends meet. The next level would be to build our own house out of pocket so no house payment. The very best thing here is the summer crashem up thunder and lightning storms. They are fantastic. Not to outright beat up californians. You have to do what is right for your own situation, I gave you mine, if your mileage is better, a LHN would say, then do what makes you happy. Cheers and see you all in Vegas next month.

[marshall]

Okay, so, my husband is signed up for the class in January. I'm trying to book the flight right now but I'm wondering if he'll be able to make it to the airport in time if his plane leaves at 10:59 pm on the night after the class? He's coming back to Alabama so it's a long flight for him, and I'm doing my best to schedule a flight that works. He said he wants to fly out that night so he can have Monday to rest. Anyone know what the Vegas airport is like? I know in Atlanta, you have to be there at least 3 hours before your flight leaves to get through all the security. I don't want him to miss his flight. Thanks for any advice!

[ncgator]

Marshall,

We just attended the Vegas class in November. Each day the class went until after 9PM. I think the second day ended around 9:30 and he really should try to stay the whole class if he can. Of course, when the class ends will depend on the number of questions that are asked as well as the breaks during the day. We left on the first morning flight out after the second day (I think around 8AM) and we were to the airport and thru security in about 45 mins. If your husband is traveling light (carry-on only) he can usually check in online and print his boarding pass before the flight (at the hotel business center) and then sprint to the airport right after the class is over the second night. He can go straight to the security line if he already has his boarding pass. It will certainly be tight on time, but if he takes a taxi from Harrah's the drive to the airport is only 10-15 mins and runs ~$15.

FWIW, this is some of the best money you and your husband will ever spend (it is worth every penny). The class is very informative and he will meet some great people there along with the instructors. Also, make sure he knows about the fairly priced meals that Ellis Island has for breakfast and dinner (they are where the people that work in the casinos go for their eats). It is off the Strip, but well within walking distance of Harrah's. Ellis Island is famous for their $7.99 Steak dinner which is not listed on the menu (you have to ask your server for it).

I hope this helps and welcome aboard!

[walterv]

Hello everyone, I'm Walt. I have registered for the January class and booked my trip. My wife and I wanted to attend together, but that is impossible with two young children. I am excited to learn the techniques to build our house, without a mortgage. I look forward to meeting the January class.

[panderson03]

welcome Walterv. while its not idea to attend without your spouse, it certainly can be done. just be sure to talk about what you learned with her for as long as she can stand it :) the process really goes a lot smoother when both parts of the team are on the same page! again, welcome. enjoy the class:)

[happyquilter]

Hi Everyone,

I have been bitten by the bug! I want more than anything to attend the class with my husband, but he is reluctant, so I might just come alone for my Christmas present. My dear hardworking husband recently retired, and owning a vacation home in the mountains by a stream is a "someday" dream. We were going to take a couple years first to do the hundreds of overdue projects around this house before taking on another home. Plus we didn't think we could afford to buy a second home. Then I discovered your site. Now I'm all stirred up! My problem is my enthusiasm, lol. When I get excited about something I have a hard time waiting!

He has agreed to peruse your web site, so we shall see... (wish me luck!)

[Tom Featherstone]

Once bitter by the bug it will turn into a virus!!! Those considering taking the class without your spouse should reconsider. As couples know being on the same page in life is one of our hardest tasks in remaining "Happily Married". And something as large as building a home should make this a high priority. Read through the public forums here and you'll see many responses from those who did it with and without, the ones that have done it without almost 100% of the time wish they would have done it "With". The money will be well spent, in fact, if we're able to build this next season I'll be sending a couple of our key helpers to the class, so we're on the same page and running from the start, an investment I know will pay great dividends on our build.

My wife and I took the class in April 08, waiting patiently for all the pieces to fall into place for us.

Welcome and Good Luck to you ALL!

Tom

[marshall]

Thanks everyone for the advice. I really wanted to come to the class with my husband, but we have two small children and nobody to watch them, so we have no other choice but to send him and have him tutor me when he comes home. We are looking forward to learning more and getting started. We have already ordered some of the books that others on the threads recommended, such as the "Building Alone" book. We'd like to learn as much as we can before we begin to cut down on frustration! :-)

[Jane Doe]

Is there anyone going who would like to split the cost of a room?

[John W]

Pick me, Jane, Pick me!!! I'm not going to class, but... Juuuuuuust kidding.

[Jane Doe]

Well John (not Doe!), I raise an eyebrow at you.

Lol.

Checkin' in and no takers. Gonna havta book a room early next week. Bummer, but not really 'cause at least I'mma goin' to the class :D

[loghousenut]

It's Vegas... If what I hear is true, you won't be alone unless you want to be.





HahHHaahahha.

[irace2win41]

Hi everyone. Ellen and I are hoping to make the January class in Vegas. As a field engineer I'm still trying to get the time off to attend. I have been following the LHBA for a couple of years and we are ready to bite the bullet. Very excited to move forward and start our project. Hoping to buy our land this year and begin the building process. Will keep everyone updated if we will definately make the class next month.

Shoot, we may even get married while there!!!

Rod and Ellen

[happyquilter]

Hi Jane, I will know by next week if I will be attending the class. If so, I would be happy to room with you and share the cost. I am looking for modest, affordable (yet safe) lodgings. My email is happyquilter1@hotmail.com. There is a possiblility I might be able to get a condo cheaply through my sister. I think we would be good roommates - You sound as enthusiastic as I feel, lol!

[loghousenut]

Hi Jane, I will know by next week if I will be attending the class. If so, I would be happy to room with you and share the cost. I am looking for modest, affordable (yet safe) lodgings. My email is happyquilter1@hotmail.com. There is a possiblility I might be able to get a condo cheaply through my sister. I think we would be good roommates - You sound as enthusiastic as I feel, lol!

It's about time... I think she was getting desperate!





PS.... Welcome aboard Ron n Ellen. I'm all in favor of marriage but it'd be a shame to do it in Vegas. Why don't you stop in at our place here in Southern Oregon and get hitched in a half finished log home. I'll round up the preacher and spring for the champagne.

[Pitstop]

Hello Folks

I have been on here now for over a Year. I still have not been able to attend a class yet. I would like to make the Jan Class but I will be in Montana helping out my Pop. We just put in a 30 x 50 garage and living quarters on the property there. We also bought another 20 acres attached to the 40 we already have. It has been his dream to build and live there which he is doing at 63 yrs of age now. We are very happy for him. My wife and I are planning on building a couple of cabins on the property for our Family to enjoy.

But the real question, are there any classes scheduled yet after the Jan Class?

Chris

[irace2win41]

It's about time... I think she was getting desperate!





PS.... Welcome aboard Ron n Ellen. I'm all in favor of marriage but it'd be a shame to do it in Vegas. Why don't you stop in at our place here in Southern Oregon and get hitched in a half finished log home. I'll round up the preacher and spring for the champagne.


OK, that's a great thought. I'm pushing it to make Vegas. My boss is not real happy I'm taking 4 days when I should be in China. But looks like I'll book the class today. Very excited. Now if I can just find someone to marry us....Maybe some of our log happy friends can be a witness. Looking forward to meeting everyone.

Rod

[happyquilter]

Yay! I've got the go-ahead to sign up for the class. It will be my combined Christmas/birthday present, as well as a just plain good investment for our family. Whoo hoo! I am still trying to find someone else to go in order to save the $100.

[happyquilter]

I have a couple questions for those familiar with Las Vegas:

I can possibly catch a flight that will arrive at 8:40 am Saturday morning. By doing that I can save the cost of one night's lodging. I won't be checking any bags. If I run through the airport to the taxi stand, can I make it to Harrahs in 10 minutes or so? The only risk is a late arriving flight...

Next question - I'm looking for modest affordable (safe) lodging off the strip. Any suggestions?

Shari.

[irace2win41]

Ok, Ellen and I are in. Booked the tickets today. We're headed to Vegas!!!

Looking forward to being a part of the gang.

Rod

[Sean Purser]

Hello, my name is Sean Purser and I am from Southern Indiana. Well...I actually did it (finally) and signed up the January class. We have a little over a hundred acres with a nice stand of white pines just begging to move to a beautiful spot over our creek...for the 1st of many cabins!!!!! I've always dreamed of building a log home and I sure am glad I found this site. This sounds like a very common sense way to build a cabin. I am also very interested in the idea of building a few to sell.

[dvb]

I have a couple questions for those familiar with Las Vegas:

I can possibly catch a flight that will arrive at 8:40 am Saturday morning. By doing that I can save the cost of one night's lodging. I won't be checking any bags. If I run through the airport to the taxi stand, can I make it to Harrahs in 10 minutes or so? The only risk is a late arriving flight...

Next question - I'm looking for modest affordable (safe) lodging off the strip. Any suggestions?


Shari.

Not even a slim chance you would make that schedule. I would plan on 1 hour from getting off the plane to arriving at the hotel and I am an optimist! I am in Vegas several times per year on business.

[Jane Doe]

Shari! Sent ya a notification :) Thanks for the response!

[happyquilter]

I just signed up and my dear husband Maury is coming too! Whoo hoo! I am really glad he decided to join me. See you all there!

[happyquilter]

dvb - thank you for the info. We will come the night before.

Jane - I messaged you. Sorry but with hubby now attending I can't room with you.

Everyone else - thanks for all the help and the advice to get hubby to join me.

See you all there!

[happyquilter]

For those looking for less expensive lodging, I found the Imperial Palace right next door to Harrahs. They are a sister hotel to Harrahs, also owned by Cesears. They are the franchise's "non-resort" alternative. That's fine with me - I won't have the time or money for spa treatments anyway, lol. I've never been to the Imperial Palace but it looks decent and certainly is convenient and affordable. The cheapest way I found to book a room is directly through the hotel's website. Shari.

[pinewood]

Shari, there is an outdoor bridge that connects the Imperial Palace to Harrahs. You never have to set foot on Las Vegas Blvd if you don't want to. You enter Harrahs from the bridge and you are only steps away from the elevator to the conference rooms. Many LHBA members have stayed at Imperial Palace.

~Dane~

[happyquilter]

Thanks Dane, good to know. I read some reviews on the Imperial Palace, and I think it lives up to it's budge prices, but we don't care. We are just looking for a convenient, affordable place to lay our heads at night. Our rates ranged from $38 - $62 per night for a "Deluxe King."

[Pitstop]

Hey guys and Gals Congrats to those attending the Jan Class.

Are there any other class dates scheduled yet?

Thanks
Pitstop

[panderson03]

Hi there Mr. Stop. if you go to this URL, you can sign up for a notification when they do schedule another class :)

http://www.loghomebuilders.org/alert

Merry Christmas:)

[Jane Doe]

Cost of class: $795

Nonstop, round trip flight booked from New York to Las Vegas: $355

Room w/ 2 queen beds booked at Harrahs for 3 nights: $270 (any solo women wanting to sign up can still room with me to share cost!)

Total (without cost for airport parking in New York, taxi fare in Las Vegas, and food during the trip): $1420

I think this is a very reasonable price range considering the fact that students come away knowing how to build a log home. Suuuuper excited!!!

[Jane Doe]

And by Harrahs I totally meant Imperial Palace. Sorry about that.

[happyquilter]

Less than two weeks away! Time to let myself get excited! Next week we are making another land search excursion. We will be looking around Easton WA, just east of Snoqualmie Pass.

[irace2win41]

One week to go to Vegas. Really excited to meet some new friends and get going!!

[jrdavis]

Way to go, newb's..... :)
Keep that excitement going.
see you on the other side.
JD

[happyquilter]

Spent a beautiful day skiing today. Can't wait to get that ski cabin built!!

[Jane Doe]

Back in the day I used to work at a ski resort just for the season pass. Rented a cabin near by. It was always such a wonderful feeling knowing that after an exhausting day of playing hard on the slopes that home was just around the corner. One thing I learned very quickly, though, with that little cabin was that a mud room is essential. Are you considering a mud room? Lots of pros for a mud room and very little cons, but coming from the wet gear aspect of unloading, a mud room becomes even more of a necessity in my opinion.

[panderson03]

mud room is definitely on our list:)

[happyquilter]

Yes Jane, we are definitely going for a mud room. Before deciding to build, we had looked at some cabins for sale, and really liked the ones with a big mud room with lots of hooks to hang we clothes, shelves for helmets and boots, etc. Hey, we are going to meet each other in just six days!! How is the land search going? This week we are going to be driving up to a different area to look around.

[Sean Purser]

Ticket purchased - see you all this Saturday!!! Sean

[Sean Purser]

Anyone know how many students will be there?

[Jane Doe]

The land search is finished. I think I found my dream place. Waiting until after the class to make the final assessment. Small lot, 1.65 acres, but the view is amazing and the location is perfect. I have anxiety every day that it will go off the market before the class so I've got my fingers and toes crossed :D

I also realized, from one of the other threads, or it could be this one, that building small and adding on is super wise in my case. I think I'll start with the 28x28 garage plans with loft and then add on accordingly. The end result will hopefully be something like seven rooms, which is just the right size for hosting the gatherings that I love, love, love to host. But yeah, you guys definitely make sense in the small as you can afford direction :)

I'm arriving Friday and leaving Monday. That way I can get a good night's rest before the class. I've been sick so I'm going to need all the catch up rest this week that I can get. I'm super excited to meet everyone! Welcome Sean!

[rckclmbr428]

The classes normally have 40-50 students, enjoy and see you on the other side!

[goat]

Just signed up also. My grandpa always wanted to be a mountain hermit, until he met my grandma.
Must be in the genes.

I'll be arriving Friday and bailing on Monday. Anyone know how the food at Harrah's is?

[Cruiser]

Goat,

The food is not bad, but kinda expensive. There will be some breakfast goodies there in class in the morning. There is a McDonalds right out the casino door and a few other small places nearby. Of course if you don't mind spending the bucks, you can dine very well at night! Enjoy the class!

[happyquilter]

Welcome to the other new students! For a somewhat healthier cheap food alternative, there is evidentally a Baja Fresh Express (or something like that) in the same food court with the McDonalds, and a Subway behind the casino on the north side. (based on internet research)

My husband Maury and I are arriving early Saturday morning. As long as our flight is on time we should be there right about 9. See you all then.

Jane, that is good news about your land search!

[walterv]

I am registered for the January class, will I be able to access the user side immediately after class or will I have to wait for a period of time? Not that I am impatient, just excited and ready to start ASAP.

[Mosseyme]

Welcome to all you new folks,
Enjoy the ride. 1st time I ever sat for 11 hrs 2 days in a row without a little doze time. If any of you are in the SE. We have at least 5 builds in progress withen 100-150 miles of each other, probably more. W. NC and E TN Give us a hollar.

[panderson03]

Hey Mr Walter. you'll be told in class how to gain access to the 'other side':) its basically an email to Mr. E or Steve requesting access. enjoy the ride. see you on the other side:)

[Tom Featherstone]

Be as a "sponge" you newbee Jedi"s. Take all that you can out of the class this weekend. A Pre-Congratulations to our Newest Members! See you on the other side too!

Tom

[dvb]

I will not speak for the ADMIN of the site, but when I went to class I was able to get in the next week. All it takes is for you to ask after the class and them to approve. Pretty fast.

[173rd ABN]

Im herw in vegas T imperial palace and the harrahs staff dont know where the class is neing held. Neither do I. Can some one tell me what room in harrahs?

[goat]

Conference Area is on floor 2 of the Mardis Gras tower.

From the IP, go down the Harrah's escalator(into the casino), keep walking straight, Mardis Gras elevators will be on your right just after Ming's Cafe

[marshall]

Thanks for all the helpful information! My husband arrived late last night and couldn't get any internet access on his phone, so I looked up the info from you guys and told him about where to go, etc. I asked him if there were any "loggers" on his shuttle on the way to the hotel and he said all he heard were people talking about gambling. We're looking forward to learning so much!

[panderson03]

I wonder if their heads are spinning yet?!

[Jane Doe]

Happy quilter where are you??? I've asked every couple here if they're you and they said no. Are you not here?? Did you miss your flight??

[Pitstop]

Alright when you folks get home from the class let us know your thoughts, Jealous in California.

I hope to tend the next one, Now if i can only talk the wife into going also.

Pitstop..

[loghousenut]

Alright when you folks get home from the class let us know your thoughts, Jealous in California.

I hope to tend the next one, Now if i can only talk the wife into going also.

Pitstop..

I suggest you allow Jane Doe and Happy Quilter a chance at talking your Wife into going.

[happyquilter]

Just got home from the class. Wow, it is really comprehensive. Both my husband and I are glad we BOTH went. It really did get us both on the same track as to what we want. And it was fun to have each other to talk to about all our ideas all weekend and on the flight home. Not to mention you take almost constant notes, and it is good to have a partner there when you slip out for a bathroom break, lol. Now to find land!!

[Mosseyme]

So glad to hear someone made it to the class. We will be waiting to hear more.

[buck_cooper]

Made it back from the class. It was just as advertised. Full of information. I have quite a bit of stick built expierience over the years and was still a little overwhelmed at the amount of info. It was all good. Some members told me it was like drinking from a fire hose. Good description. Steve and Elsworth were awesome and great personalities. I will be building in Colorado Springs area and met a couple folks not far away so will be interesting when any of us start building. The only suggestion I made on the course was I would like to see it made into a 3 day course instead of 2. The fact of the amount of info, and sitting for 12 hours a day is a little bit of a killer. Once you are in town that 3rd day motel room is cheap. The week end days are the expensive ones. Just my 2 cents. Excited to get going. Hope to soon be on the log side (instead of dark side) Buck

[Tom Featherstone]

Just got home from the class. Wow, it is really comprehensive. Both my husband and I are glad we BOTH went. It really did get us both on the same track as to what we want. And it was fun to have each other to talk to about all our ideas all weekend and on the flight home. Not to mention you take almost constant notes, and it is good to have a partner there when you slip out for a bathroom break, lol. Now to find land!!

Can I collect on my wager now? Congrats to All that made it. See you in the Members area soon!
Tom

[buck_cooper]

Thanks Tom,
I don't want this to go to LHN's head, but every comment and advise he made is dead on once you attend the class.
Ha Ha
Buck

[StressMan79]

buck, now you've done it. The muffin man will not let anyone forget about how right he is! Hopefully he just keeps that sentiment for his wife... hahaha.

-Peter

[edkemper]

Buck,

Now you know why all of us say, take the class. Now trust there is a good reason the class is "only" 2 days. What you don't know, yet is what the other side provides. Once there and settled, you'll understand why 3 days isn't necessary.

Glad to have you in the family. Can you bring the Taters for the next potluck?

[buck_cooper]

Thanks Ed,
How did you know taters are my favorite? I would love to bring them and the green bean casorole! Ha Ha

[irace2win41]

Alright when you folks get home from the class let us know your thoughts, Jealous in California.

I hope to tend the next one, Now if i can only talk the wife into going also.

Pitstop..

Just got back late last night. BOTH Ellen and I attended and boy am I glad we BOTH went. Everything we thought we wanted we changed at the class. Was building a rectangle (still may try that LATER), was building a bumpout, was thinging tazmahlog, NOW going stock plans!!!! Keep it simple stupid applies here. Met some awesome people and a few from around the southeast. Steve and Ellsworth kept us on our toes and fed us a ton of information. The frugal tips alone was worth the class and will save us a ton.

Bought the Dewalt rebar ground rod driver at the class and OF COURSE got pulled by security at the airport. Back down to the gate to buy a box and send it back in checked bags. The security guys thought we were nuts!!!

A big thank you to all of the members that encouraged us along the way and for your wise advise. Looking forward to getting started and joining the members on the other side.

Rod

[ottodog]

Still suffering the LHBA weekend class hangover, but class was great. Getting up for work today was another story. Recommend to anyone on the fence, a ton of great information to be had. Can't wait to get access to the members forum.

[Tom Featherstone]

Still suffering the LHBA weekend class hangover, but class was great. Getting up for work today was another story. Recommend to anyone on the fence, a ton of great information to be had. Can't wait to get access to the members forum.

The Hangover is easy. It's once the infection sets in, you could end up like me or worse!! Plenty examples in the Members section. Congrats & Welcome to All of our Newest Members.

Tom

[Mosseyme]

Seems we have another Rod. Welcome, you'll find there are several members within 1~4 hrs of you.

[irace2win41]

Seems we have another Rod. Welcome, you'll find there are several members within 1~4 hrs of you.

Looking forward to meeting you guys in person. May have to take a road trip pretty soon and visit my fellow members....

[blane]

Welcome Rod and Ellen! If I can ever be of assistance just let me know.
Just got back late last night. BOTH Ellen and I attended and boy am I glad we BOTH went. Everything we thought we wanted we changed at the class. Was building a rectangle (still may try that LATER), was building a bumpout, was thinging tazmahlog, NOW going stock plans!!!! Keep it simple stupid applies here. Met some awesome people and a few from around the southeast. Steve and Ellsworth kept us on our toes and fed us a ton of information. The frugal tips alone was worth the class and will save us a ton.

Bought the Dewalt rebar ground rod driver at the class and OF COURSE got pulled by security at the airport. Back down to the gate to buy a box and send it back in checked bags. The security guys thought we were nuts!!!

A big thank you to all of the members that encouraged us along the way and for your wise advise. Looking forward to getting started and joining the members on the other side.

Rod

[irace2win41]

We definately want to get in touch and come take a look at your home. Looking forward to catching up. Heading out of town on business Thursday morning.


Welcome Rod and Ellen! If I can ever be of assistance just let me know.

[ottodog]

Hey Blane, see you're in Clyde. I found out I might be getting transferred to Asheville. Might need to bend your ear some time about land out in that area. Had a couple people suggest Clyde & Waynesville, but I really don't have a clue.

Chris

[panderson03]

:) welcome to the family:)

[Mosseyme]

Otto dog Chris,
Grew up in Clyde, beautiful country, the mountains are getting full of a lot of homes and cabins, they will build on a rock cliff over there. My dad used to be a builder some of the houses he did subcontract work on would be ground level on front and 30' supports on the back. Welcome to the other side.

[ottodog]

Otto dog Chris,
Grew up in Clyde, beautiful country, the mountains are getting full of a lot of homes and cabins, they will build on a rock cliff over there. My dad used to be a builder some of the houses he did subcontract work on would be ground level on front and 30' supports on the back. Welcome to the other side.

Thanks Mosseyme,

Just curious what areas are less likely to be the sub-divided, gated community, restricted, mcmansion type areas. Also is one county easier to work with compared with another, as far as log home building.

We currently live on 5 acres it the woods in an area with a homeowners that was just established to deal with the forest service easements. Would like to find an area out there that's similar as far as restrictions.

Thanks, Chris

[Mosseyme]

Hi Chris,
You will find every kind of community in the Asheville, Clyde area, This is the South East. Truely country folks, yanks, halfbackers and every other kind of slang you want to call any and all of us. Asheville is an artsy kind of small city. Up in the cove where I grew up is my mother's 50 yr old run down, was middle income type place 50 yrs ago when we built if after our move up from Fla. It is on about 4-5 acres and there is another 5 acres next to it for sale. Up the hill is a Canadian couple in a kit type loggish look. Up the other hill is a horse ranchish type way up the mountain, down the hill are some other small houses some mobile homes, and just around the corner up the hill is a 7000sq foot megamansion. You will also find more and more of the gated type areas around. Blane is definately the one to talk to about codes and codemen since he is currently in the middle of the log home build. It is a beautiful area but if you are native to CO. it will be quite a change but not like going to flatland.

Chris have you sent Adm request for membership access?

[Mosseyme]

Anyone heard from janedoe since the class or at the class. Haven't seen a word on here since class, hope we didn't leave her in Vegas.

[ottodog]

Hi Chris,
You will find every kind of community in the Asheville, Clyde area, This is the South East. Truely country folks, yanks, halfbackers and every other kind of slang you want to call any and all of us. Asheville is an artsy kind of small city. Up in the cove where I grew up is my mother's 50 yr old run down, was middle income type place 50 yrs ago when we built if after our move up from Fla. It is on about 4-5 acres and there is another 5 acres next to it for sale. Up the hill is a Canadian couple in a kit type loggish look. Up the other hill is a horse ranchish type way up the mountain, down the hill are some other small houses some mobile homes, and just around the corner up the hill is a 7000sq foot megamansion. You will also find more and more of the gated type areas around. Blane is definately the one to talk to about codes and codemen since he is currently in the middle of the log home build. It is a beautiful area but if you are native to CO. it will be quite a change but not like going to flatland.

Chris have you sent Adm request for membership access?

Thanks for the info mossey. I'am able to get into the members area now.

[andy newman]

Chris ,I believe u sat in front of me in class the past weekend in Vegas. You will find this as wonderful n as nice as Idaho springs(if not better), when u make the move let me know cause it's less than two hour drive from the csra ( central savannah river area what my part of south Carolina is called) n I would be happy to get u started. Me n my wife are already scoping large tracts of land for sale n our area.

[jot]

Can't wait to start using all the great info we got from the class! We already have property in Arkansas with a septic. I think we'll be buying the plans from LHBA. This is going to be a blast!

[Jane Doe]

I'm heeeeere!!!! Didn't lose me to Vegas (yuck!).

And to everyone who helped me navigate the inside of the hotels, thank you. I kept getting lost. Bleh. And what's with the air always smelling like smoke??? Give me mountain trails and blue skies and fresh air any day. Vegas is a waste of everything good about being human (just my opinion, folks).

But yeah, I'm still here :D

[jot]

I'm with you Jane give me fresh air any day!

[edkemper]

Jane,

There is one good thing about smoky Vegas, It got you here. Welcome to the family. By next week, you won't remember the smoke because your head will be so full of LHBA, the member's side and your new family.

Glad you didn't loose your way home.

[ottodog]

Chris ,I believe u sat in front of me in class the past weekend in Vegas. You will find this as wonderful n as nice as Idaho springs(if not better), when u make the move let me know cause it's less than two hour drive from the csra ( central savannah river area what my part of south Carolina is called) n I would be happy to get u started. Me n my wife are already scoping large tracts of land for sale n our area.

Hey Andy, could be, I still have brain fry from the weekend. I got an "un-official" offer in Asheville, but I'm still on the fence. Wish I new more about the area. May have to take a trip out for a few days before I decide.

Good luck on the land hunt.

Chris

[ottodog]

I'm heeeeere!!!! Didn't lose me to Vegas (yuck!).

I'm with you, Vegas is a hole....

[Mosseyme]

Chris, the Asheville area really is a beautiful area of the country. We have trees on our mountains and we do call the Smokies God's country. It is special. If you are on the fence come over for a visit. You can get flights to knoxville tn a lot cheaper sometimes and it is only a 1 1/2 hr drive a little like I 70 through Glen Canyon. Not as dramatic.

[happyquilter]

Agreed Vegas is a hole! What an exhausting place, lol. BUT I can see why the classes are there - cheap and frequent direct flights from every city in the country, and food and lodging for every budget.

Haha Jane, you are not the only one who got lost in the labyrinth. Our room at the Imperial Palace was way in the back by the parking garage, but down on the first floor, and it required two elevator transfers and about 30 hallway turns to get there.

Funniest moment? When we asked the young man at the front desk for a quiet room and he said, "We will put you with the hearing impaired." (What?! How does that make sense?) We were too tired to argue with him so we took it, and guess what? We were in the wing with the people who brought their dogs, lol. It wasn't bad at all. Being dog people ourselves, we would rather hear a couple dogs barking than put up with obnoxious partyers! But the whole thing was pretty funny.

[WornOut]

I see all the fresh newbs onboard and wish I had done the early '11 class.
Fun to catch the enthusiasm you have even if just on this side.
Maybe the next class for me? Guess that will depend on the if-when-where dealy.
Who planning on an actual build start next year of the newbs anyway? Or a slower approach what you planning?

[WornOut]

I see all the fresh newbs onboard and wish I had done the early '11 class.
Fun to catch the enthusiasm you have even if just on this side.
Maybe the next class for me? Guess that will depend on the if-when-where dealy.
Who planning on an actual build start next year of the newbs anyway? Or a slower approach what you planning?

[edkemper]

While I understand the feeling about being dog people, I hope the dogs that were barking weren't Hearing Service Dogs.

[buck_cooper]

Funny part for me was landing at the airport and on the taxi ride to the hotel the cabbie says, so what are you doing in town. I say, attending a seminar about building log homes. He gives me this crazy look (remember we are in Vegas, so crazy is really crazy) and says in slow motion, building houses out of logs, with a puzzled look. Like we were building a spaceship?
The next morning I was walking around thinking, how can I pick out my fellow members out of the crowd, I thought well I guess I can cross off the people walking around with a beer and it was obvious they had been up all night. Ha Ha Also the young lady that saw me looking at the menu board for the hash house at the Imperial wondering if she could join me for breakfast, I don't think she was on the job, she keep saying she loved to play poker so I don't know, but then again I really don't want to know.
Other than that things were pretty smooth for Vegas and It made me realize that we as a group are on the other end of the spectrem from Vegas.
Cheers

[Tom Featherstone]

January 2012 Class,

Congratulations! Please Check In, in the Members section when you get your Full privileges, in the thread "New Members Check In". Not a requirement. You can reintroduce yourself there , comment on your class experience, how your outlook has changed after class, I think you have the idea and the information there is in our secure Members Section.

Welcome Jan 2012 Class!
Tom

[ottodog]

Chris, the Asheville area really is a beautiful area of the country. We have trees on our mountains and we do call the Smokies God's country. It is special. If you are on the fence come over for a visit. You can get flights to knoxville tn a lot cheaper sometimes and it is only a 1 1/2 hr drive a little like I 70 through Glen Canyon. Not as dramatic.

Thanks Mossey. Looks like I'll probably be making a trip out this week, can't wait to see that part of the country.

Chris

[rreidnauer]

With each of these stories of Vegas, I am ever more thankful that I was blessed with the opportunity of taking the class at Skip's place. I really hope someday that things get straightened out, and classes can resume there.

[blane]

Chris,
When are you coming?
Thanks Mossey. Looks like I'll probably be making a trip out this week, can't wait to see that part of the country.

Chris

[jrdavis]

With each of these stories of Vegas, I am ever more thankful that I was blessed with the opportunity of taking the class at Skip's place.<cut>
Rod,

You and me both.
It was truly a wonderful experience to walk around that house and just SEE it all "fit together".
You could hear the 'light bulbs turn on' when we were all sitting around the table and Skip said "Those windows, they are just sliding glass windows turned on their side. Cost me $5 bucks"

Priceless (well, actually worth the price of the class) :)

JD

[edkemper]

Rod,

We only took the class a couple of years ago when it was held next to the lodge in WA. Watching the deer walk through the grounds was wonderful. I also know it would have been far cheaper to have gone to Vegas for the class. Having the class in a log building was definitely impressive. But I would have traded the cheaper cost of Vegas and been far more impressed after the class to have visited other members houses.

It's probably easier on the guys also. Just guessing.

The hardest part of going to Vegas is the smoke.

[ottodog]

Chris,
When are you coming?

Either tomorrow, or possibly next week.