September 19th Update

There is a hint of fall on the mountain as the Collins log home takes shape. Morning temperatures are now in the low 60's, even in the high 50's some days, so flannel shirts are the norm until around mid-day. What's so wonderful about being in the mountains is that gentle breeze that lingers no matter what time of day it happens to be. Here's a look at where we are today.

The first hint of fall colors appear as the Collins log home rises.

The second floor, which is the main living floor, is by now all framed in. That includes two large bedroom suits with bath, large walk-in closets, a guest half-bath, the rear wall of the open kitchen, and pantry. The rest of the 2nd floor is mostly open living space with a dining room off to one side and a screened porch on the other side. The pine ceilings are also in place. And as soon as the logs are cloroxed, then the Anderson Eagle double-hung aluminum clad windows will be installed, along with all interior doors.

A dramatic view of the pine walls and ceilings around the elevator shaft and stairwell... looking up from the second floor.

Lesley shows where the elevator will eventually go. It will come up from the garage level and continue on up to the third floor landing.

The third floor is taking good shape by now. It will house two guest bedrooms, two full baths, large storage closets, and a 14 x 30 ft. loft area (which will serve as an office).

Logs are sequentially lifted into place.

Bill secures each new course with 18-inch strips of rebar. Holes are drilled and the rebar is forced down into the hole for added support.

Note the strands of rebar in the foreground.

Two strips of foam insulation with a sticky side down are then applied to the top of the logs...

...which is then followed by a industrial strength application of glue. Every course of logs includes this sequence of foam strips and glue, and supportive rebar.

Meanwhile logs are organized on the floor below by wall designation and ID# until they are needed above.

At which time they are lifted up...

And UP...(at 80 lbs. each this is no small feat!)

...to the third floor as needed.

Lesley makes sure that Roach gets his fair share of the chocolate chip cookies that she baked today for the guys. Oh, she also brings them oatmeal cookies, cornbread, brownies and lemon bundt cake! (No wonder they like us, eh?!)

Oh, and yes...THE ladder is still in place!

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