STAY OUT OF WYOMING, WE'RE SICK OF HOLLYWOOD WANTING TO PLAY COWBOY. STICK TO COLORADO OR MONTANA, OR CAN'T YOU AFFORD THE LAND PRICES EITHER???? (WONDER WHY....)

I think Cape Hatteras, North Carolina would be a great location for the blog beach house.

Why not build the cabin in western Kentucky? I know the perfect place; a small military training site that national guard soldiers go to for training prior to deployment to Iraq or Afghanistan.

There are many lakes and beautiful places within this site where a cabin could be built. The soldiers could go fishing, cook out and relax before they have to leave for their deployment.

It would be very much appreciated!

Thank you.

Laura Armstrong

I vote for these - in this order:

#1 Blog Loft (in NASHVILLE... Music City USA... my hometown... and one of the trendiest spots in America!)

#2 Blog Lake Lodge (...love the "rustic meets modern"! and "lots of glass") Plus, I think lake living is becoming more and more popular. We're building a log home on a lake in Tennessee right now.

#3 Blog Beach House (...what fun!!!) Everyone loves the beach.

#4 Blog Ranch Retreat (...sounds like an old-timer's retirement home)

Howdy,

I can think of no greater place in the world than Boulder Colorado, right up Canyon Blvd, to the peak of perfection. A "natural" place for the next Blog cabin. I wish I was there.

I look forward to seeing the "Rocky Mountain Blog Cabin".

Burton
NH

Hi Ron,

Personally I like the idea of a Blog Lake Lodge - somewhere in the central region of the US (Ozarks??). Must have a Blog Boat house capable of securly storing that wonderful pontoon party or fishing barge that we'd hope will be included!

Bill

Already thinking ahead, hmmm, my vote is definitely number 2, Blog Lake Lodge. Just thinking of an escape to a rustic location with a lake...WOW. Get out the fishing poles, I'm ready. Lots of glass overlooking the water-how serene and picturesque. Boathouse with a landing to relax on in the evening-what a dreamy idea.

I mentioned in an earlier blog that a log cabin was being built just around the corner from where I currently live. The roof is going on now-tin, green tin. Looks great. Reaffirms my choice in voting for tin for this year's cabin.

Til Later...

I like the lake cabin, something about a cabin on the lake that seems right. with a big deck facing the lake. Maybe somewhere in the lakes region of New Hampshire, tacky ? naaa, perfect, wonderful sunshine in the summer and rustic "stay=in" homey warmth in the winter draped in snow.

How about a house on a lake in the mountains of Montana

I vote for the Blog Lake Lodge.

I vacation in the Adirondacks every summer. There are many beautiful lake houses and cabins up there.

love the idea of the log cabin ranch house that is my dream design in a l shape nice center area patio pool area, facing south and some windows

Good evening Ron,

The options for the 2008 Blog Cabin ~ whooeeee !!

You are going to let us have more fun with this again next year !!!!
Now that IS exciting news, I'd assumed this was going to be the only one we could all help to design !!

My first choice would be to vote for the Blog Cabin on a lake and my second choice would be for the unspoilt beach Blog Cabin.
My least favorite would be the hi-tech loft version.

I hope you and your team are having as much fun with this as we are on the Blog :o)

Okay....time for me to start cooking more porridge for those hungry bears !

Happy Blogging,

Goldie Locks and The Three Bears :o))

The Ranch Retreat sounds like a great idea. The plains of Wyoming, or Idaho would be a great place, but don't forget there are still plenty of wide open spaces in Texas too!!!

I like the idea of a beach house. Maybe around the panhandle in Florida or the Alabama coast line around Mobile. The panhandle of Florida still has some nice beaches that are not to overly developed.
It would be nice to sit on the porch and watch the sun go down over the Gulf of Mexico!!!

i love picking out the way the log cabin will be built...it is exciting and a wonderful way to feel like you have a hand in making it and maybe even winning it..patty ohio

The idea of a Ranch home in 2008 sounds heavenly. Wide open spaces would be a dream come true.

Personally, I think the Blog Ranch Retreat would be the best because anyone seriously considering a log home is looking for the wide-open space far away from neighbors, traffic and cities.

first i think you guys should think about the poorer people in life like me. people who own trailers. like me, people who don't have the money to hire contractors to fix things.like me, i need floors doors and windows my add-on is sinking which is causing my roof too leak, some of my water lines ain't even connected because i changed the faucet and the lins are so old they broke.bottom line is all these shows are on remoldling homes. but none on mobile homes its plane and simple. you guys have a good show but you need to expand your field.one more thing i have a leak heat from under my trailer because the underlayment they used to insulate is falling apart.why not show these people how they can diy.

Our thoughts come from the design we have had in mind for years - a combination of your Lake Lodge (ours overlooking a 3 a. pond), a Ranch Retreat (a rimview of the Yellowstone Valley below from our 6000 a. farm/ranch), a comfy B&B hunting cabin with neon signs (we both love the feel of the massive wooden logs of the high-dollar log cabin bars in big cities), and front-and-center great room designed for entertaining/feeding fairly large gatherings of the neighbors and new friends.

Approx. 35x60 and surrounded on all sides by a covered deck with boardwalks to the out buildings, a visitor approaching from the south will see the welcoming arched entry w/massive double doors, all at ground level. Once in out of the weather, the general layout is obvious as the kitchen, old dining table, stone-fireplace den, bannistered office, and overlooking loft are all part of the cathedral-ceiling great room. As the guests grab a drink and cross the great room to the North, they are approaching two French doors opening onto the large, second-floor deck that offers a view of the pond from 15' above and a spectacular evening view of the stars and city lights just 10 miles distant. This is "Big Sky" country and there isn't so much as a yardlight for 2 miles so the Northern Lights will be outstanding.

There is no limit to the detailing possible, such as lighted water fountains in the pond, steps and a built-in water-slide from the cabin to the pond's edge, an outdoor BBQ/wet bar, vined lattice dividers to break-up the expansive deck, ... all done with an attempt to fit in the remembrance of our Grandfather's heritage. We have been on this same ground for just 100 years.

Yep - it should be quite hospitable.

It would be nice, to have an urban style home. Maybe in somplace like ashland NC., or Charleston SC.. Or maybe another cabin but by a lake, say around Lake Champlain. The beach, gotta go for Bald Head Island in NC., and as for the ranch house, well I'd pick Montana Big Sky Country. But these are just my dream places to live. Give them a little thought, they might just grow on ya. :)

thanks, cindy

It would be nice, to have an urban style home. Maybe in somplace like ashland NC., or Charleston SC.. Or maybe another cabin but by a lake, say around Lake Champlain. The beach, gotta go for Bald Head Island in NC., and as for the ranch house, well I'd pick Montana Big Sky Country. But these are just my dream places to live. Give them a little thought, they might just grow on ya. :)

thanks, cindy

You might want to think of the beautiful Oregon Coast for your next Blog Beach House. The Ocean is majestic with the waves beating against jagged cliffs. Excellent for storm wathing and beautiful during the summer.

Just a suggestion.

All sound great but what about solar or green friendly house?

Hello again,
I'll give you my 2 cents.
Loft - with hi-tech-modern ammenities sounds good in any cabin.
Lake Lodge - rustic meets modern - with lots of glass, boat house etc... sounds Perfect,modern is the way to go,enough of that country duck stuff. Put it right near the lake with porch and dock combo.
Beach House -- Sounds good, but no ideas where it wont cost a million. If you can find it, buy it.Just try to stay out of Florida.
Ranch retreat-- sounds good There are lots of open places to put this one.Just stay modern.

Let me say I'm in Florida, I live in a equestrian area(2 horses),45 minutes from the beach,I have 3 teen girls.We go to the beach alot, we go Kayaking in the ocean. We go camping and fishing on the beach, in the Florida keys. Trail riding on horses everywhere and in the woods. We have a GREAT time everywhere we go.
What im trying to say is, any of these places sound great. People from all walks of life would enjoy any of these cabins. I love the woods ,the beach,the mountains,the plains,the valleys even the desert,Im originally from Long Island New York,just to let you know im not from flat land Florida. If you dont like the beach and the humid heat it makes no sense to be here (im ready to go).
I hope Blogging doesnt ruin my chances on winning,will it?

I like the idea of the Blog Loft with hi-tech combined with rustic. Nashville sounds like a great place!!

I think that you folks from HGTV are missing a sure bet when you don't come north to Wisconsin - an extremely beautiful state with year round activities - check out Green Lake!!!!

"Blog Beach House -- Got any ideas off the beaten path here? Some beach areas that are not too "vacationy" or overly developed."

The southern Coast of Oregon is beautiful.
Go to http://www.coos-bay.net/ to see for yourself.

Thanks!

Blog lake house would be perfect along the Michigan side of Lake Michigan. Many beautiful places, especially around Crystal Lake and the sand dune there.

Blog beach house would be perfect in the big bend of Florida along the Gulf, a place like Cedar Key.

build the log house on a lake on montana mountain
thanks for let me vote.

Doesn't matter where - as long as it is waterfront! Lake cabin w/place for boat(s) jetskis, swimming, etc..
Or a beach house overlooking the ocean (or inland waterway or Carribian.)
What fun!

I think they all sounds wonderful and it wouldn't matter where in the United States you would put it. I think every state has at least one great spot for a cabin.
Its been alot of fun helping DIY design the home.
Thank you DIY

Well my choice is for a lake front cabin. I think one in the Ozarks in southwest Missouri would be wonderful. They have great lakes and good fishing. It would be wonderful to sit out on a screened in porch and see the sun set over the lake. Having a dock and a covered boat house would be the icing on the cake. Hope you look into this area. I am looking forward to our next blog cabin.

When I think "cabin" I DO NOT think electricity, small lot, "urban" infrastructure (ie: paved roads)nor do I think 35' x 60' with boat house etc. That is NOT a cabin in Luce County, Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Talk about rural, beautiful, four season recreation, private lakes, designated wild and natural Two Hearted River made famous by Hemingway... Need I say more. A cabin site to fit ALL the listed ideas can be found here. Also, cozy is best, with fire places, composting toilets, built in propane lighting systems, solar energy, and the list goes on. Luce County has 33 miles of pristine shoreline on Lake Superior, hardwood forests, small lakes, the Federally designated study river, the Tahquamenon (which hosts the famous Tahquamenon Falls) etc. Also, for four season recreation, we have it all. Including MUSHING.. (Yep, sled dogs) with many itidarod mushers living year round and seasonally in Luce County for some of the best training in the lower 48, snowmobiling, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, birding, fishing, hunting and other recreational opportunities. Then again, once you own a cabin at a site in Luce county or the surrounding Upper Peninsula counties of Michigan, you will want to just stay right where you are and enjoy God's Country.
Good luck to all who take part in this! It sounds like a blast.

Gone to the Dogs.
P.S. web site is my brother's kennel site.

I love the beach house idea. For a true DIY experience, why not build a beach house along the gulf coast? How about Pass Christian, Mississippi? That is right at the heart of Katrina destruction. "The Pass" as the locals call it is a great little community. It is a quiet, historical area that hasn't been overdeveloped. Just an idea to consider. Thanks.

Build the 2008 cabin on the coast of southern Maine.

how about a lake house in the area of Ozark Lake. We have beautiful hills and cliffs,Missouri is a wounderful state, one of the most beautiful as far as I think and the climate is very nice. it is like having 5 seasons here and the winters are mild.The wildlife is teeming all around the area.There are still some areas tucked away that have not been over done around, "The Lakes" as we call it.You can explore till your heart is content with all of the caves and undesturbed riverways. This is my choice and it would be wounderful to see you all do a cabin in this area.Often times the Ozarks are over looked and this is a very majestic place.

Beach Cabin In North Carolina Just Pick A Beach, Ocean Isle, Cherry Point,Holden, Emerald Isle, Topsail, Sunset, These are nice quiet beaches Between Whilmington NC & Myrtle Beach SC. Thanks for letting me vote.

I think the lake retreat would be great ! Summer and winter along Lake Michigan on the Michigan side is beautiful. Lots of people wanting to build along the lake from other states. How about not so much over decorating too ! That plaid bedroom in the 2007 place was over the top.

I have to go with a lake house design in Santa Rosa,New Mexico. We have neighbors that are from there it is suppossed to be heavenly,Check out the old southwest.With the beautiful sunsets here in new mexico, and star gazzing in the outdoors its awesome. Come to new mexico.

as an over the road truck driver with my wife we have seen all parts of our great country but when its time to go home i can think of no place better for the log home than the beautiful state of maine.we are fortunate to have the ocean to the east,moosehead lake to the west and mt kathadin to the north...thnx keep up the good work

I love the lake front cabin idea. But why must it be in the mountains or middle America? Right here in Florida there is still major untapped beauty. I own a small lake property in Northern Escambia County that is rustic, quiet and beautiful. Just a little biased, I guess. I can't stand the cold weather places. But where better than Florida to have a lake cabin, boathouse (with year round usage, by the way), and large mouth Bass fishing. Perfect!!!!!!

Have to agree Oregon cost is utterly delightful - but need to realize that almost all of the beach area is state owned, so the home would most likely have to be a Blog Cliff-hanger with rather treacherous (typically) access paths to the actual beach. Most of the good sites are already gobbled up, I suspect.

Also, if a ranch is located in Texas, it would definitely require security provided by Smith & Wesson - may be offensive to some of your more liberal minded readers....

A real challenge will be to find ways to integrate eco-friendly aspects of the design - without offending the distaff side as Mr. Bagley seemed so prone to do...!

East coast beach house seems a bit scary when you think of potential storm effects - even making the home storm resistant may not help against erosion effects.

I'm thinking "middle of the country" only from the aspect of access ease for the widest spread people - extremes like Oregon, Vermont/New Hampshire, Carolina coast, or even Florida (Destin!!) are surely each delightful in their own way, but also may cause more challenges as far as potential travel arrangements for the ultimate winner.

So many ideas, so little time....

Bill

How about a ranch home outside San Antonio?

Definitely build the next blog cabin by water - river, lake or ocean doesn't matter - as long as it's tranquil to sit on the deck and watch. This was my first time to view the Blog Cabin and vote - I just wish there were more green building materials offered (such as the bamboo flooring). Perhaps next year's Blog Cabin could incorporate green and renewable resources as part of the theme.

LOFT!!! Always wanted a loft. My husband and I agree on styles... and both always wanted a loft. Since he plays music and is very talented but undiscovered - NASHVILLE would be the place to be! Not to far from my home/relatives in MI too! Colorado too cold, and Austin too hot!
EEk-- No way near the hurricane areas!!!! Just what you need to be building and have it destroyed. I use to want to move near the gulf as we love beach areas and palm trees always and forever... if I died and went to heaven that would be my "thing". Buuuuttt not on earth I wouldn't call those areas "paradise" any more. How about something in Hawaii.. I would give up living near family for Hawaii! Cabin though? It is more for HGTV's dream home. Oh my gosh!
Anything is fine in N. or S. Carolina, those are my other "dream states"... close to the beach and the mountains.. woooo hoooo!! As far as the ranch- Montana sounds good even though that isn't my personal dream. The lake lodge would be good in the Ozark's and also Upper Pennisula of MI.

I just voted for this years cabin. Each year I watch HGTV and now DIYNETWORK build these beautiful homes and yet not one of them have a craft or tool room to speak of. We are crafter's of many crafts, and yet nowhere to do our creativity. How about a craft and tool room to beat all craft and tool rooms.

Thanks. Doreen in Cranberry Township,Pa.

PS: We love the beach.

I vote for a Blog Beach House. The perfect location is Ocean Isle Beach, NC.

I would like to see more universal design used in the new homes being built. With master suite downstairs and possibly a second bedroom downstairs with at least one handicap accessible bathroom on first floor. Also like the idea of a specific "craft/sewing/tool room" with lots of storage and space. I have often looked at the room above the garages as excellent places for this. Just need to be able to add more light. Maybe with Skylights. Also, like the idea of more GREEN. What about solar/wind power. We're talking remote in the woods kind of thing right? Need to take advantage of Nature as much as you can. Ever thought about finding a site and using the trees on the site?

No cities please. How about building it where the winner would like it to be built?

What about the upper penninsula area of Michigan or Wisconsin? Pretty, rustic, has the lake concept, with the woods too. It would be nice to incorporate the best of all worlds, for the ultimate site!

My husband & I live in western Washington. We will be hitting retirement age in a few years. Recently we started a small dairy goat herd and would like to become a licensed micro-dairy to sell raw goat milk. I also like to make goat cheese!

We would LOVE to retire into a nice log cabin near the western side of the Cascade Mountains on about 5 acres. We want a cabin that is set up for aging in place, that will accomodate a wheelchair in case one of us becomes mobility impaired.

We'd love the cabin to be one story with 3 bedrooms separated from the rest of the house by a screened-in courtyard and covered hallwall connecting the two halves of the house. We'd like the interior of the house to be rustic but we'd also like it to be a "smart house" with as much automation as possible. We'd love central heating and air conditioning.

For the master bathroom we would like a walk-in jacuzzi with sauna for tired old bones. The bathing/shower area should have non-skid flooring and seating and grab-bars. We don't need these things YET, but better to be safe than sorry. Or like the Scouts say, "BE PREPARED!" :-D

We have a disabled son living at home with us. We would like him to have his own full bathroom separate from our master bathroom.

For the kitchen I would love it to be a chef's dream, except I will not have gas in my house. I want it to be ALL electric and be wired for a generator because we have a lot of power outages here. I would like to have a walk-in pantry.

I would like all the flooring to be solid wood.
I would like big floor-to-ceiling windows in front-facing wall of the living room and a bay window off the master bedroom with a window seat. I would also like a large walk-in closet for the master bedroom. Also, the master bedroom should be large enough to accomodate our king-size bed!

We would like the laundry room to be in the half of the house where the kitchen, dining, & living room areas are. My husband doesn't like the noise of the washer or dryer close to the bedroom.

We would like our son's bedroom to have a Murphy-bed in it that can be closed up during the day so he has more room when he's not sleeping.

We would like the third "bedroom" to double as a home office and a guest room, also with a Murphy-bed!

My husband would love to have a 2-car garage!

We would like 5 wooded acres to accomodate our lovely Oberhasli goats and our rabbits, which we raise for meat and fur.

How's that for a log retirement home?!

Cheers!

San Juan Islands, Wa. State

The sunsets cannot be more spectactular anywhere else

Hi Ron~
Wow, on to next years cabin already, eh? Well, I would vote for lakeside somewhere in the state of Colorado. The weather is beautiful most of the year. (unless you live in the mountains where you can expect more snow). This year they had more snow than average. However, Spring arrived earlier there than in the northeast which had a mild winter. It would be easy to employ solar energy panels on a roof because of the open space.

As i see you don't have hardly any one from our beautiful Oregon, Requesting Oregon for the place for your 2008 blog log home. Oregon not only has a beautiful coast but We do have many beautiful lakes that would be wonderful for any style of log home.And can also be in a forest area. As for me i would love to have a ranch style, Or one that would be lodge style for a B&B.
I'am also wondering why it is that you and HGTV choses regular homes for fix up and redesigns and not manufactured homes many of us do have those that need redesigned New kitchens, Bathrooms, Masters, Bedrooms. I think this is a question from most of us?
Thanks. PATTY W.

Hey Ron, & All,

Let's not forget about the need for CRAFT areas - Yes, we are a bunch of crafty folks, generally speaking. Sure we sometimes get in "over our heads", and need a "DIY rescue", but we look to DIY to learn how to, and off we go again.
I know we enjoy avocational diversity, so you'd have to leave it unfinished so the lucky winners can set it up to suit their particular needs. AND, there need to be HIS & HERS - can't let competition for space cut into a relationship can we? It's OK to coexist, but not to compete.

More penny pairs (2 cents) for the bank....
Bill

How about a year-round home on Jamestown Island in Rhode Island. Great boating in summer, perfect fireplace winters. Outstanding sunrise or sunsets, depending on the parcel of land. Close enough to serious business for work, close to Newport for play. Boat to Block Island or (if we get it back) the America Cup. New England is often forgotten, but it has everything for summer and winter fun plus culture events all year long.

Carl

why not build in the northwest like washington

The Lake Lodge with lots of glass sounds beautiful. Lake St. James in North Carolina would be a wonderful place to build this home.

build in the new river vallley of north carolina or viginia

BEACH, BEACH, BEACH, BEACH.... Did I say beach? New Jersey Shore, Long Beach Island. It's the perfect place for the Blog Beach House. Extremely family oriented and not too crowded. The people are wonderful and the beaches are absolutely gorgeous!

A Blog Lake Cabin would also be nice. Lake George, New York. The outlying areas of Lake George are dotted with beautiful lakes just begging for a Blog Lake Cabin. There's plenty of skiing in the winter and excellent fishing in the summer. Also extremely family oriented with wonderful people.

How about both?? A summer and a winter getaway package. I can see myself now, taking the sun on the deck of my Blog Beach House in July; than sitting around a cozy fireplace with a cup of hot chocolate in my Blog Lake Cabin in January. Ahhhh... dreams.

Have a great idea for a cabin that would be a challenge to build...if you are up for it. Just bought an island with no power, sewer or water. The island is located in a National Forest and is 2 miles from shore. We have designed our other cabin in Utah and have several ideas for this one. It will include all the modern conveniences yet will rely on alternative power supplies. Intrigued? Contact me.

Thanks! Mike in Vegas

Hello!
This is the second comment for the blog cabin. I love the idea of having the blog loft, or blog lake lodge, or blog ranch. I like the modern ammenities with lots of glasses, wrap around porch like Smokeymountain design though, but not boat house. I believe there is another mountain that most people did not even think of. But, the view is as beautiful as others. It is Franklin mountains between New York state & Penselvania.
Well, I put in my two cents.
Thanks for asking our opinion.

How about building in the beautiful state of Michigan. The land of lakes and beautiful ones, let people see what Michigan is all about!You get to experance all the beautiful seasons. There is lots of wild life to watch and hunt too.. All seasons of sports to enjoy! The lower part of Michigan has alot to offer everyone. Lots of private lakes, fishing, boating really anything on the most beautiful lakes.

As I said before, I think a beach house would be very nice. A log cabin by the lake would be my 2nd choice. That one, of course, would have to be on a lake in Alaska. Log houses are just a way of live up here. What better place for HUGE open space, more lakes than you can shake a stick at. Go on the ultimate hunting adventure, hike, watch all kinds of wildlife right from your porch and see the northern lights in the winter. Perfect!!
So, let's hear it for a cabin in Alaska

If you plan on a beach house (and I am a beach person) why not consider want of the off islands of Georgia, like St Mary's island.

When considering a lake cabin, check into the Finger Lakes or maybe out west near national parks or in the Grand Canyon area, maybe Lake Mead.

A ranch cabin is very cliche' but the states of Wyoming and Montana come to mind. However, it's in the middle of nowhere and it does sound a bit retiring.

Your idea of Austin with a loft sounds ideal. Austin is a great city with a lot of growth opportunities as well as ongoing cultural life supported by the university.

I am a very young soon to be 57 year old professional. I wouldn't want to be anywhere unless it was near an area for culture or nightlife. The cabin could be secluded and peaceful but when I want action, I don't want to hunt for hours to find it.

Thanks for the opportunity to voice my opinions.
Cetta

I would love to see a lake front cabin w/ boat house nestled in the woodsy lake front of Center Hill lake outside of Nashville TN. It would be a perfect place to get away from all the hustle and bustle of city life. And then if you want to get in the middle of what's happening now you are just minutes away.

A lake lodge some where near Asheville, N.C. or Lake lure. People tell me it's a beautiful area!

Think about the "GREAT NORTHWEST" (Vancouver, washington) we are great neighbors,right across the wonderus Columbia river, lots of beautiful lakes, mountains and the ocean, and we don't mind sharing with the rest of the world.

Amy,

Stay out of Boulder! The streets are narrow and congested with college students! Everytime I have to go up there for something I'm reminded of why I can't stand it!

Anyway, love the idea of a beach house or another cabin, but not a loft. If you do a ranch, I guess outsiders aren't welcome in Wyoming (according to the first guy), but everyone's welcome in Colorado. :)

Take Care

Hi! In Southwestern KY there is a tract of Federal land called Land Between the Lakes formed by the creation of dams on the Tennessee and Cumberland rivers. There is residential land on all sides of this tract - and it is renowned for beauty, fishing, boating and wildlife. I think this might be a perfect area for ANY of your blog buildings - even a ranch would fit as there are many farms in the area, too. Maybe I'm just parochial as this is 45 minutes from my house, also 8-)).

Hi Amy

WOW, Mr. R. Kimsey is very out spoken about coming to his neck of the woods. What a way to say thanks for an opportunity to win a log cabin.

I read a blog a lttle further down from that one about building a Blog Cabin near a military site for one of Our U.S. soldiers.

AMY, ever since 9/11/2001 my Patriotism has risen to new heights and I became very much stronger towards how I looked at our Country and especially for the men and women that are serving her, by fighting, dying and making the ultimate sacrifice that a soldier can make for his/her Country. I pray for those men and women everyday and ask GOD to watch over them and bring them home safely.
I think that it would be a wonderful idea to present a Log Cabin home for one of our soldiers when they come home from their tour of duty. Damn it, I wish that we could do it for everyone of them, but we know that is impossible. Whenever I find myself out and about walking around in a mall or something, I try to keep it on my mind, that if I come across a young man or woman in uniform that I will walk up to them with my hand extended out thanking them for what they are doing for us by serving our armed forces. People today do not realize how hard it is to serve this country, it takes a very special person to go out and volunteer to join whatever branch of service they choose to sign up with and go to battle, not knowing exactly how they will be recieved by people other than family when they finally get off the plane and set foot back on U.S. soil. I think a fair word to use in this case would be appreciation.
So,DIY Network, I think it would be a wonderful gesture for you to reward one of our soldiers with one of your Log Cabins. If there is anyone who deserves to win something as nice as one of your log cabins it should be one of our soldiers.

AMY, after I saw what you and your other 2 buddy's Carl Champley and Nathan Hahn ( I hope I spelled Nathans' name correctly ) did on your DIY to the Rescue mission show, I believe it was in Louisiana ( hope I'm Right )by building a home for one of the folks that lost her( the Grandmother and her grandson )home to that wonderful little girl "HURRICANE KATRINA". I must admit AMY that I was really moved when I saw those segments. And AMY, I was moved even further when I saw how much it affected you by the way that it touched your heart and when your eyes filled up and your voice got a little tense, I know exactly what that feels and looks like and I just wanted to tell you that I am very happy and proud of you. Displaying those kinds of emotions on TV. It was very evident that you were affected by this experience and DIY Network picked the right person to present that show. And getting a little choked up on kindness is a very nice attribute to have, and you presented it very well. I for one really appreciated seeing it for myself.

Beach House Great
Emerald Isle in North Carolina would be a great place to build.

Here's an idea. How about a lake house on a lake that is just now gaining popularity in the professional fishing circle. Lake Amistad in Del Rio, Texas would be the perfect place for a lake/ranch house. There's plenty of land for sale and the lake is beautiful year round. It is also now the best bass fishing lakes in the world.

Well, it definitely seems the preponderance of ideas are for waterfront of some type. Hope we get more input next year for floor plan. (Of course, I mailed in my tweaks for this year's as just minor changes could make a HUGE difference in liveability. Amy, Ron, did you get it?)
This blogcabin idea is wonderful! Don't know when I've had so much fun!

I was really glad to find out that my choice for the frame was chosen. I believe it is the most forward, largest, and ascetic look for the cabin. I tend to lean toward a more contemporary look as long as it is simple, functional and open feeling. I am not quite sure where this site is(State I mean)? I have read some of the blogs and info but have not found it mentioned yet. As far as the 2008 cabin goes, how about looking at Washington state? Eastern or central regions? None of these sites seem to find Washington a choice, so could someone tell me why? Taxes? Rain?(which is not that bad really) Just give me an idea why not... see you for the next decision!
Bill

Just thought of one: what about somewhere off the coast of Maine or elsewhere around New England, such as the Portsmouth area? It would be absolutely beautiful, and quintessential. Lobster, lighthouses, white picket fences with pretty seaside flowers, and rocky beaches! It would be lovely, I really love the idea!

Amy
I have seen a lot of this country being a truck driver I would like to put in my idea for the next cabin I think a mountain retreat would be nice or a ranch type setting the best two places i can think in order would be northern Idaho around the Coeur d'Alene area and second would be Oregon both places would be great depending on where you build, so good luck and have fun where ever you decide to build I will cast my design choices when the time comes.

How about a Lake Lodge on Lake Travis or Lake Autsin in Austin, TX (your favorite place).

KJ

Growing up in Louisiana I most definetly appreciate wide spaces. Fishing and hunting is about as close to heaven this side of the grave you can get. I have been blessed to travel most of the U.S. and beyond. So with a good perspective on prime locations I have a couple of ideas I would be willing to share.
1. A beach house would be awesome, ocean fishing, sunsets, good freinds. What more could anybody ask for? Ok, maybe a Proline 26' SuperSport with twin Evinrude 175 hp e-tecs and all the electronic goodies, oh and if its not too much trouble a black crew cab Toyota tundra to pull it and pick up you guys to take fishing. Now as far as location, being cost aware as I am, it should be on the bay side. Its alot cheaper, the sun sets on that side of the water, insurance is cheaper. Well you get the idea. As far as location, I have freinds that own a cottage in Hatteras island, its awesome. small town, can't be over developed due to zoning laws by the Goverment because the shore is considered protected. Just up from Hatteras on Pamilco sound is some of the most gorgeous real estate on earth. Not overly pricey, good value as prices will only increase in the years to come. Pamlico is the largest sound in the western hemisphere so it offers all the fishing and water sports you could ever want. Its within an hour of the largest towns of the outer banks, yet it doesn't lose any of its quiet serenity. Access to the ocean is minutes away in any direction, with Oregon inlet no more than 30 minutes to explore the vast atlantic at your pleasure. Work and business opportunities are almost as vast as the ocean itself, that is if you have to. If you have done well enough in life, then leisure is at your fingertips. For the rest of use that work the daily grind, its a dream. Taxes are reasonable in that area, insurance is alot cheaper on the sound side. Near by is the Wright Brothers, Orville and Wilbur's, aircraft museum. Ronanoke Island is just a ferry ride away, this is a place one should see before they die. The history of our country starts with this island and the lost colony. There is never a lack of things to see or do in the outer banks. Well, thanks for giving us the opportunity to dream with you. I found it helps me feel more alive to dream and dream big. I hope and pray that my dream will help someone somewhere live a little more.
p.s If you need a couple of lots to check out, let me know, I have the addresses. LOL.

Let you know what we think of these fabulous ideas... LOVE THEM! Can't wait for next year's blogging. Thank you!

Hey everyone, Let's not forget the GREAT State of Wisconsin. We have spectacular lakes and woods in northern Wisconsin that would be just perfect for the 2008 Cabin. Come Discover Wisconsin. Once you visit God's country - you will be back. Julie

Just wanted to throw out the suggestion of building the 2008 Blog cabin somewhere in the general vicinity (5 to 25 miles) of a community airstrip. Doing so would allow an out-of-state winner the ability to more easily access the cabin throughout the year no matter where the cabin is located...Texas, Wyoming, Tennessee, Colorado, or wherever.

I'm from Montana originally and would love to see a place in Montana or Wyoming -- there are still places in both untouched by Hollywood and big money. A few acres, bordering a stream with trout, and being able to hear the meadowlarks -- can't get much better!

I vote for aging in place and intergenerational floorplans and LEED certification. As for you suggestions here are my thoughts and votes in order.

#1 Blog Lake Lodge: this sounds pleasing so long as you get the passive solar elements correct and position the house far enough from the water that flooding will never be an issue.

#2 Blog Loft (in NASHVILLE) this is interesting. Although I happen to know that Nashville is struggling with maintaining the charming vernacular building and not getting over run with modern lofts. making the loft fit in and making the loft LEED certified is a must.

#3 Blog Beach House: nope. beach side is never sustainable and will always get hit by a huricane sooner or later. Make a statement by not building in a place we should not be building in!

#4 Blog Ranch Retreat (...sounds like an old-timer's retirement home)I agree. But a blog mini farm sounds great!

Hi Ron;
I'm from W.VA. Almost Heaven and west by God. I've always dreamed of a cabin like the Cartrights from Bonanza lived in. There are some beautiful hills near Cass that would be perfect.
My second location would be at Lake Cumberland, Ky. Use the same cabin right on the lake!! Just Dreamin.

Northern California North Lake Taho
B E A U T I F U L
Warm Summers and Beautiful Winters. View of the Mountains or the Lake,
Sand, Ski, Gamble and Golf. Privet and Fun

I think the Williamsburg area; Virginia; or Kingsport Tn, would be great for the lake lodge;
For the beach lodge, I am partial to florida, or southern Ala, Dolphin Islands, would be a good place;
For the loft; it really doesn't matter too much Nashville is a great city;

Ron,
The upper Midwest is a beautiful area. I just took my family on a trip to Wisconsin Dells, WI and was amazed at how much activity both summer and winter offers there. There are timber settings along rivers and lakes that would make a beautiful location for your Blog Home. We also went up into northern Wisconsin by lake Superior, again, beautiful country. As always, you and the rest of the diy crew will undoubtedly pick the best location.

A CABIN BUILT IN WARM WEATHER STATES? COME ON EXPERIENCE ALL THE SEASONS IN MICHIGAN. YOU HAVE SEVERAL PLACES TO BUILD A CABIN HERE , IN NORTHERN MICHIGAN WERE YOUR CLOSE ,AND YET FAR AWAY,FROM THE HUSTLE BUSTLE OR IN THE THUMB AREA WERE ITS JUST GREAT OR IN THE U.P. WERE ITS WIDE OPEN SPACES. GREAT PEOPLE,AND MANY GREAT PLACES TO VISIT. THE BEST
PLACES TO FISH AND HUNT ARE RIGHT HERE. JUST TO RELAX NEXT TO A NICE BEACHES, WE HAVE OVER 11,000 LAKES HERE PICK ONE AND SIT BACK. MICHIGAN IS THE BEST PLACE TO BUILD YOUR NEXT CABIN HANDS DOWN. DID I MENTION YOU CAN VISIT A FOREIGN COUNTRY WITHIN MINUTES.

Hi Guys great shows by the way : but I have an idea is it possible to give the home to a family with a wheel chair victom they sometimes don't have the opertunity to go plases and do things and to be in nature and breathing fresh air and just having fun and not thinking of there problems of getting around . Doors a little bit wider wheel chair ramp master sweet on first floor things that will be easier for that person or persons. See you on tv you are great people June

I think Austin is a beautiful spot, but subject to a lot of thunderstorms and tornados from time to time. I think Wyoming sucks. In and around Bend and Sisters, Oregon where they get 300 days a year sunshine, a high desert environment and lots of lakes and streams and the Deshutes river where a guy could park a boat. A little cold and snow in the winter, great sking, boating, hunting, fishing and modern setting. Look at Century Drive. 100 miles of beatiful homes and cabins.

Next years Blog Cabin. Have you looked around the Lafayette, Louisiana area? Nice climate, out of the storm path, great bayous to have a boat dock. Put the master bedroom always on the main floor, due to age and possible handicaps that the winner could have. Great people, great food and a 365 day a year growing season for the avid gardener.

Hi Ron,
I'm from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, and there is no more beautiful place than along the shores of the Great Lakes. There are many undeveloped areas of lakeshore along Lake Michigan and Lake Superior. Lake Superior is so awe-inspiring & majestic, but it can be cold; however, you are close to some of the best skiing in the country. The southern part of the U.P. along the Lake Michigan side is more mild. The summer and falls up here are just beautiful. I vote for a lake lodge along the shores of one of our Great Lakes. Experience the 4 seasons in all their glory!

The Oregon coast is breath taking at all times of the year.

I think that a Lake cabin in the northwest mountains of Georgia would be perfect!!

A view of the lake - morning fog atop the water - and the Smoky Mountains with the beautiful haze that surrounds the mountaintops. A cozy fireplace in the den and one on the patio would chase away the summer morning coolness and the winter chill. A boat house for the john boat and the pontoon that are sure to come with the house would be barely visible from the jacuzzi on the back deck. Some of the lakes even have little beaches and creeks that lead you to deep water.

With a ranch-style plan and handicap accessible facilities, this could be the best build ever.

How much better can it get?!!!

Blog Lake Lodge: There are some beautiful mountain views and parcels available in Massachusetts of all places. Especially in the area of Wendell atop the mountain. Erving State Forest abuts most land up there with a gorgeous river running through most of the land, and where there isn't the river, it is fed with various smaller brooks (which are never quite small). The atmosphere and people are laid-back, a treat for those who grew up in the area.

For 2009 it would nice to see a blog cabin on Lake Winnepesaukee in NH.

The lake is gorgeous. Throw in a boat and I would be ecstatic!

I'm all for the Blog Lake Lodge and what better place than the Thousand Island Region in New York. Better yet,in the summer enjoy the warm weather on a quiet lake like Black Lake where your friends and family can get together and enjoy some of the best bass & northern pike fishing in NY. Imagine sitting out on your dock sipping coffee (or diet pepsi im my case) listening to the loons and hearing the wheels and hooves of a passing Amish buggy. If your not into fishing but maybe atv's the area has some of the best trails. And in the winter some great ice fishing and hot chocolate or if you prefer snowmobiling on the groomed trails or on (yes on)the lake,as most parts of the lake freeze solid enough to drive your full size pick up across. It's very centrally located, only 15 minutes to a small town for major conveniences or 20 minutes to Alexandria Bay (heart of the 1000 Islands & Boldt Castle) or 20 minutes to Canada. Our family enjoys the area weekends and anytime we can get away all year round. Check it out !!!

I would love to see you guys build a cabin on the Oregon coast. That area is beautiful and is actually used for logging. How ironic. The view would be incredible! You definately need to consider that area as one of your choices.

I'm for a beach house somewhere along coast of Southern Maryland. Still can get property along the coast and have a private beach. Maybe with a cliff overlooking the bay. Your own private beach and a dock with a boat house.
Second choice would be a Blog lake lodge somewhere in Georgia a lot of nice lake in the middle of the state where it could be secluded.

No matter which type of cabin you build or where it is built you should keep in mind our current energy issues. You could use energy smart building materials, solar panels, geothermal heating/cooling and energyStar appliances. There is no reason why we can’t have all the modern day conveniences and still be energy efficient.

diy has the opportunity to lead by example and build the "Cabin" of our dreams that is not only beautiful but also environmentally friendly. Build a cabin that the "everyday" person can actually afford to live in and be proud of.

Hello: Although I do not blog, I have about the 2007 Log Cabin. Living in one has been a life long dream. Can't wait for the contest to begin. As far as the 2008 votes, I'm all for the Beach Cabin, however I can't pretend that I know a good area for one. But I'm sure the team there will make a great decision. Good Luck everyone. Julie

I love the blog lake lodge idea. Please consider this one and building it in Ky we have lots of beautiful lakes and 4 seasons to enjoy which is always a wonderful surprise in it's own. Sometimes we get summertime days in the dead of winter and then sometimes we get a couple of cold days in the midst of late spring. The weather s always surprises you. Some of my favorite ky lake areas are Lake Cumberland and Dale Hollow. Beautiful areas and affordable places for most people to live. We have some locations where a boat house could be a possible & awesome addition to the lake home. The home should have a wide front porch with swings and rockers and then a big screened in room and deck in the back. Have a smaller yard for the kids to play in a gated but see through fence for safety and seeing the lake view. You don't want much yard work to do when living like this. Then how about starting a series of steps heading toward the boathouse with a rest spot 1/3 of the way down, a sun deck with chairs and loungers, then another series of stairs headed at another angle down the hill and you end up at a hang out spot complete with a fire pit to warm up and dry out before heading back up to the house or if you would rather not go back to the house & just want to go fish at your little dock off the boathouse then just a few more steps to the boat house complete with a screened in area with a sleeping loft for camping & an outdoor kitchen right out there on their piece of the lake. Or get on the boat and ski or fish letting the water cool you off.

Hey there Ron, I like the idea of Blog Ranch Retreat. I kind of know what that is and that would be perfect. That is one thing that has not been done yet. What an outstanding idea! Some folks probably do not have a clue as to the enjoyment they would have at something like this. You have a great idea there Ron, please keep it in mind. I really would look forward to seeing you develop this idea. Thanks for what you have done already you guys are wonderful.

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