Hello Watson, Thanks for the new features to vote on! Have you found a basement floor plan we can view yet?

I would hope we could pick a lighter color roof that will not draw so much heat in the summer and be a better contrast to the darker color logs of the cabin.

Watson have you been to the site and took anymore pictures?

Thank you and DIY team for all that great work you are doing on this great cabin!

Susan from Florida

I love the new choices that we have to vote on, but I am confused as to why we have a heater for the out door patio feature. Don't we already have an outdoor fireplace according to the design plans. Please DIY, can you explain. Maybe I am confusing myself, but I do hope that the fireplace will still be there.

OK,

I've thought about that mis-build on the master bedroom and have thought of a possible solution. Since the 2 windows were left out and a door put in their place, how about making the opening larger to accomadate a double door like the one facing the lake. You could then have 3 walls to put your bed on, also recieve the extra light and breezes, and traffic flow in the room would not be hampered. Then the homeowner could decide if they wanted 2 doors for access outside, the one facing the lake deck or the one facing the side deck to enjoy the evening sunsets. Lastly, this would balance with the dining room 2 doors. I can feel those breezes now!! What do ya'all think?

OMG! The cabin is really coming along. And great new feature choices to decide. I hope everyone had a Blessed Easter. Ours was quiet. How are those who have been ill? I am terrible at names, but when I pray for you, God knows who I mean. I had a real difficult time with some of the choices this time [I want them all!], but will try to decide. Blessings to all.

WOW!!!! What a difference a week makes in the building of the cabin. It appears that the second floor will not have any logs, rather all roof. Is that correct? It looks like the bedrooms and bathrooms will have a sharp roof line in the room.

I hope that people will vote for a patio heater, remember that it is easy to bring out your drinks, but you can't bring out the heat in the evening. That particular heater is great and really puts out a lot of warmth (you can only put on so many layers).

We have just installed pavers in our yard and driveway, it really doesn't matter how you lay them, they are great anyway.

janer

ps still voting for the pot filler.

I love the circular patio it reminds me of water ripple waves on the lake! I voted for the refrigerator for the patio as well: That way no one is tracking dirt in the house for a drink and you shouldn't have to worry about the kids staying hydrated! If they have drinks on hand they tend to drink more fluids. I like the heater but you can easily get a fire pit table or chimnea for warmth.

Hey Ahmed - great stuff on your, Chris, & Simon's videos !

This year, I'll be on the "blog" getting involved with the interactivity of it all - just like last year I was "glued" to the TV with every new episode (you will have Amy D in some of this year's episodes won't you !???)

Good luck with this project - it looks awesome - with all your all's energy and expertise, how could it go wrong !

One idea - if there are some good sized logs still around, take some cross cuts (2-3 inches thick), dry them out of the way of the elements, and use them for the seats of some stools/chairs maybe ??

Later,

OC

PS - RE: Simon's beard - if he's motivated anything like I was - I used to grow one just so when I shaved it, people would say I looked younger (not that either of the twins need that yet !)

I forgot to mention the stones to be used in the hard scape. Ahmed mentioned in his video that he was saving the boulders and stones from the excavation to be used in the landscaping. Personally I really love that idea! Hope this voting item wins out, we can always lay down some kind of walkway steps.

janer

Hey everyone, this is what I posted on the chat line, but alas, no one was there. Must be watching DIY!! Love you guys...this is what I said.

Hi to anyone out there! Love the new choices! I love the swrilly pattern of a patio, think it brings a little jazz to the outdoors! Also love stone outlining flower bed etc. I have that at my home, and it really gives the yard a flair! Speakers or fridge??? Well, I decided to go for the fridge because I would love to hear all of nature sing to me! Music would be nice with a party atmosphere, but plan on having really relaxing parties with chit chat. How do you all feel about it?

Patty in Virginia

This is the first time i have vote for any of the blog cabins and I just love all the things so much it was had to choose a favorite! The metal roof colors are great for the area and I can't wait to see the final pick.
I think that this might be your best Blog Cabin yet.

The choices for the outside features are great, but where does the porch swing go?

Cool - new stuff! The space heater - can be useful away from the fireplace, like the patio outside the mancave or elsewhere - speakers would be great too but irksome to the neighbors. Only thing there I didn't care for is the outdoor fridge. Patio pavers -Straight or circular (really like that) but not the wave - too nauseating at first take! I like all the roofs but am thinking of what would go best w/the outside stain finish - possiblity the darkest roof of the three. Definately rocks for the hardscape - the other two don't "work" at all! And for the garage - the sports storage center of course! We need space for the kayak paddles & bikes & such - this is a vacation or retirement home after all! Although the work station would be nice for building radio control airplanes - I still like the sports rack the best. Cabin is coming along! I've taken the Superior foundation info & added it to my favorites for future referrence - thanks for all this education.

Getting down to the details...very exciting. Would like to have seen a choice to use synthetic decking materials perhaps on the porch. All the winners look great. Thanks again. This is really fun to be part of.

Ahmed,
I hope you might consider putting is a rock wall or more in and around the area. Especially for retaining areas. That would be absolutely beautiful.
Do many evergreens grow around those parts? It would be nice to see a few , but only if they are native to the area.
And perhaps a suggestion for built in water timers.
Can't wait to see you in your element Ahmed !Performing your wonderful works.

Someone had mentioned awhile back about possibly some stained glass windows for the Master Tub and the toilet area. I wanted to plug that back in for any new bloggers.

Hey guys
From what I see from how the voting is going this is going to be a great home. I have been pretty much with the majority of the the voters on what is being put in this cabin. Wondering if you have thought about putting any green features into the design of this cabin. Since it's in the beach area it would be something to think about since most of the country is thinking of saving energy and eco minded
Rick Pollocksville ,NC

Wow! I love that fan design in the patio! I can see that with the stone hardscape and that dark roof. Good choices!

Yay! New stuff to vote on. I'm with some of you all. I wish we could see these items next to the ones already chosen. Anywho...Love love love this!
Oh how this cabin just has to be mine!!! :o)

Oh and I see we have chat avalible now. Very cool!
Come on people, let's chat.

Country for the metal roof since it would go better with the butternut stain, outdoor fridge for the wine or cold drinks, workshop/tools for the garage since this is a necessity for every man, stone for the natural outdoors look, and fan style for the patio. Straight and circular are seen everywhere. The fan design is more unique and would be really beautiful with greenery bordering the edges. This is going to be a really wonderful cabin!

Why with all the beautiful COLORS that metal roofing comes in are the only choices for our blog cabin those dull earthtones of gray and brown? I thought we had voted for a metal roof...the examples shown appear very conventional...but not the metal standing seam roof that I think of when a metal roof is mentioned. What gives??????

I am putting my 2 cents in for the fan layout for the patio (off the basement area under the balcony porch on the lakeside).... that way it is flowing down toward the lake... inviting you out into the yard toward the lake

I am also voting for the speakers ... because this will incluce the wiring in to an indoor system that could be used on the patio & the balcony porch... easier done in the building stage.. I will have a frig in the theater room or somewhere in the basement... and can get a heater or have a firepit put in for warmth ...

Would love to have the workshop & the gardening storage...but I went for the workshop... (know we will have a problem getting a storage shed in this community with all their rules...)

These are my opinions and just wanted to explain my reasons for voting the way I am....

Cabincraver ... prayers are with you and your family...

Texan in Okie land

All the options were very nice, but the outdoor refrigerator takes the cake. Placing a chaise lounge close to it would certainly be nice for hot summer days. Your beverage of choice would only be an arms length away.

Hello Fellow Bloggers
Just have time to vote and a quite blog before I fly to Houston to spend a week with my son.
Love the metal roof design. I just knew that DIY was going with this type instead of the standard metal roof. Thanks DIY!
I would prefer the speakers installed since we could purchase the other two, but that just my idea. That way the wiring and everything would already be done.
The Circle patio and the stone are just fab.

Baskets of Blessings and Happy Blogging
Joyce

Just VOTED! Loved them all but chose one! I am going to love this cabin because I am going to win it! Yes! You guys are doing a terrific job with the building and landscape issues. The site location is beautiful.

Wow, what great selections for the cabin. Whatever wins the vote will sure to be a pleaser since they are all winners. Just a thought for the patio item a heater sure would be nice if you are sitting out on the fan patio on a cool,crisp Tennesse fall evening. Thank you DYI!!!

Good morning! Just wanted to say that I love the metal roof choice. Have never seen metal that looks like shingles!!

can't wait to move in, looks soooo peaceful, need calm in my life!!!!

I see the circle design is winning. I really think that limits the arrangement one can do on the patio. If something isn't centered on or around the circle, then everything will look off. Like it isn't planned well. Oh well, it will still be graet.
Sorry if someones has mentioned this already, as none of the posts from yesterday are up as I am writing this. I'm probably the only one so picky anyway.
The cabin cam is sure getting exciting though. I have to come see every day now.

As to the outdoor heater...it's for the patio, and will put out much more heat than a fireplace. The FIREPLACE is on the porch.

I'm voting for the heater! It'll help extend the outdoor season.

Happy Belated Easter to everyone...I am so amazed at how quickly this cabin changes everyday! :-)
I just voted for our wonderful new features - but, I am surprised that everyone is voting on the lightest of the 3 colors for the roof - I personally, would like to see the darker color with the natural color of the logs - I just think that would be more of a NATURE look for this cabin on the lake! Also, I was reading the blogs and someone had a great point about the circular patio design and setting up your furniture around it - I would really like to see the straight version - but, Any of them will be beautiful I am sure of that! Cant wait to win this cabin! :)

I was just reading some of the other blogs and got to wondering - with all the great things going into this cabin - does anyone know will there be a outdoor type of shower -rinsing station from when you return from the lake?? what kind of path will be from the cabin to the lake?? and can we get a view of the cabin from the lake with this CAM?? I would love to see the other side - is that possible?? I am so excitied about this cabin!

I have a question: Is the patio going to be located on the left or the right end of the basement level? Or will the patio be one big patio on the ground level under the porches linking the whole back of the house and french doors together into one big patio...? I like the circular patio for the fact of centrally placing tables or a firepit with chairs around it. I however love the wavy patio: it's the one that reminds me of water rippled waves on the lake. It's my favorite! I got the names confused yesterday! I love the stones for the lanscaping or bank holds. Stones make for a very relaxing and rustic environment especially on the lake. I hope all of the landscaping will be easy care! I like the blooming trees like the pink cherry willows and dogwoods, the grasses: like pompass, and monkey. They are beautiful swaying in the wind! The wildlife likes coming to them!

Love the metal roof and the color will go great with surrounding natural setting. Think the patio heater is better idea then a frig out there. Can't wait til we win this house! It is going to be a great place to retire (when my husband and I finally get the chance)but in the meantime a great getaway! Keep up the great work DIY!

I think the speakers would be too noisy for the neighbors and why not be listening to the sounds of the lake, birds and critters?
I'm not too picky about the roof color. I would like to see them with the color of the logs. That would make a big difference in choosing.
I think the stone hardscape is the best way to go, especially since Ahmed saved some of the rocks from the excavation.
I'm really torn between the choices for storage
in the garage. I think some of all of them might be needed.
Thanks, DIY, for all of the new choice to vote on.

I voted for the patio heater because the HOA doesn't want noisy things and what's the sense of speakers if you can never turn them up??? I agree with those who stated the tile circles are too complicated a design for the patio...simple is good!! It's a good design for a larger area though. I love the choices for the metal roof. Again, I chose Country for it's simplicity. This cabin is going to be wonderful!!!

I was curious will there be a hot tub involved on the back patio? Just a simple question that will help me make a decision between the heater and the drink cooler. Great job diy looking good out there it is really coming together.
Thanks Wil

Hi, why don't you use the pavers on the patio, to do the walkways or hardscaping? Who would want railroad ties? I am voting for brick........not the color that is shown but something to blend. Wish the roof color choices were lighter, had a feeling the dark exterior color choice would make the house too dark. I am voting for the heater and the workshop. Guys need a workshop.

I just come back to see if the cabincam had updated yet and WOW! That morning sun is glorius! Those builders already have the front porch peak up and some of the roof sheeting. Awesome & Nice work builders. Just gorgeous! I also would like to see some shots of the cabin cam toward sunset!

Great choices for the roof design! I prefer the darker Timberwood. It seems that it would blend in with the area a little better. Early voting doesn't put it in the lead though.

I agree with everything else that is in the lead so far. I decided on the garage workshop but with the small size of each feature, it seems that DIY could fit them all in the garage quite nicely. (hint, hint) I'm glad the outdoor fridge is in the lead. I want to listen to nature, not a speaker system. And the lot doesn't look big enough not to disturb your neighbors with your music.

I'm with the earlier blogger, wasn't there a fireplace outside? Or are we thinking of Blog Cabin 2007? Happy voting everyone! ~Betty~

Have not seen any mention yet of a hot tub. This would be so relaxing before sleep - looking out at the lake from the deck.
Also agree with a previous poster as to the circle design - would really look sloppy if accessories not positioned correctly. The fan design is too busy. Would perfer the straight so as not to detract from the beautiful surroundings. Hey a frig outside? UGH, give me the outdoor heater please.

This could be a financial nightmare, like the Dream Homes, depending on how you manage your finances. Be ready to take out a mortgage to pay taxes. The value of the home will be taxed as ordinary income for federal tax purposes. Your state may also tax you.
Suggestion: Keep it low cost, functional, simple and uncluttered (ie.: do not let Linda Woodrum decorate!)
Even better: include a cash prize that will go towards the tax liability.

My wife had to have the bronze bathroom fixtures and I have to have the workshop. I am wondering about the tile backsplash with the granite........the example looked good. Wife wanted the heated floors in the bathroom and we are happy with most of the choices. Wife is concerned about how dark the exterior will be with a dark roof.........too dark? What does everyone else think? Think Wife needs to vote.

"Great Job" everyone!! The chioces we have to
pick from are amazing! Watching the Blog Cam
everyday is quite exciting and can't believe
how fast it's going up. We love the location
you picked and it certainly would make a wonderful retirement home for grandparents
like us! Thanks.....it's fun to DREAM!!!!
Keep-up the hard work, Linda Dale

Temps for Spring City, Tn.

Average Temps Record Highs
Jan. 45/25 Jan. 74/-12
Feb. 50/27 Feb. 78/-10
Mar. 59/34 Mar. 86/1
Apr. 69/42 Apr. 91/21
May 77/51 May 93/28
Jun. 84/60 June 100/36
Jul. 87/64 July 107/46
Aug. 86/63 Aug. 102/44
Sept.81/56 Sept.97/28
Oct. 70/43 Oct. 89/21
Nov. 59/35 Nov. 81/8
Dec. 49/28 Dec. 77/-8

The new "Tip Swap" where everyone can chat live about the Blog Cabin choices is a great idea.
It's located on the Blog Cabin web page where you vote and post blogs. Check it out.

I know that the stain on the cabin is a lighter color, but on the "green" side of things you should really go with the lightest color of roof to save on cooling the cabin. I have lived in homes with dark and light roofs and it does make a difference.

I see the sheeting is going on the roof that means that it will be in the dry soon for when bad weather hits we can still work and not loose time. To DIY you guy and gals blow my mind at what you do for all of us here in blog land, and I am grateful. All of the criticism and suggestions to put it all in perspective your great once again!!!! I just want to thank you for all of your hard work and since I have been off work with my injury you have given me something to do on my off time thank you. I would really love to meet you sometime and tell you in person. Thanks for keeping me sane while cooped up in this house I am only 31 and too young for this I should be working. Great work Wil Webb

Wow ! The Roof is going on . That is exciting. They must plan on putting that metal down right after the voting on this one.
Well, looks like the mini fridge is coming thru after all ! I think this one is a little more upscale and more universal too. Plus it has wheels so you can move it where you will. Thank You DIY for thinking of everyone.

Thank You Jane, Pot filler above the stove.

I am afraid without comparing, the leading color of roofing might be very close to the same color as the siding. I hope there will be a little difference in color between the two.
Can anyone tell me if you have wild turkey in TN? I am from the NW and have never seen Turkey in the wild. Or fireflys for that fact. I am certain if I did research ,many of my ancestors would be bootleggers from around them parts. So, yes...I know about the other wild turkey.

Hope you had a wonderful Easter Clive ! Talk to you after you read thru all the new blogs.

Was there much flooding in TN with what all the news was talking about?

I do enjoy getting to vote on the features for the Blog Cabin. And, to read all the ideas.
I'd go for the outdoor speakers. From learning the hard way, it's best to put the speaker cables in during the beginning. It was a mess at our house. You can always get the heater and fridge later.
Dreaming in Michigan.

Love the new choices, but I am surprised that most people are voting for an outdoor refrigerator. It gets very cold outside, especially since you are up in the mountains. I used to live a couple hours away from there and there is more cool/cold than warm/hot. A patio heater would make the space enjoyable for far more time than having cold drinks for a few months. If cold drinks are a top priority, may I suggest a cooler on wheels. I really don't mean to be sarcastic, but unless you have lived in mountains, you don't realize that as soon as the sun goes down, it gets cool - even in summer. Hope this helps people make what I believe is a wise decision and vote for the patio heater.

Hey everyone! I agree with OC. It would be wonderful to use a few left over logs from trees that had to come down for nice benches out toward the lake. GREAT IDEA!

I love the sports holder thingy! I hope I am not doing a lot of work while I am there, I hope I have a canoe or kyack to store! I can store my gardening tools in the garage somewhere!

Love the roof choice. Tin comes in so many colors and shapes and the shapes shown are a nice change from the long standard type of roof.

The temps posted by weather girl (thank you btw!) let me know that a good fridge outside will be very nice and keep people from running in and out every five minutes for a drink. Looks like a lot more warm weather than cold.

Hope all are enjoying the cabin cam. I know I am. Thanks for the videos too! The twins are great!

Take care and hope to see you all in the chat room.

Patty from Virginia

I forgot to mention this. I wanted to make a suggestion about the tile in the foyer. My husband and I just tiled our kitchen floor. We looked at ceramic tiles and we also looked at the porcelain tiles. We finally chose the porcelain because the color goes all the way through the tile. If a ceramic tile chips, only white shows through. The color is only on the top. Hopefully the flooring won’t get chipped, but if it does, the color will blend. Porcelain is also stronger and it is beautiful! We chose the terracotta for our flooring but the bronze would be gorgeous with the wood flooring already chosen for the cabin. So far, I’ve broken a few things on our floor, but the tiles never have!! I haven’t tried bowling balls even though the salesman said it could take it. That’s okay, I’ll take his word for it!

Patty in Virginia

Hi Fellow Bloggers!
WOW, I'm amazed at how much has been built in just the past couple days. Took a break for Easter since I had family in town. I also am very impressed with the color choices for the metal roof. I didn't vote for metal and I had no idea that they could make a metal roof look anything like the pictures shown. I agree with the patio frig. I want to just relax and listen to nature and not have to leave the patio to get a fresh drink. Also, Ahmed did mention that he was saving some of the local rocks for landscaping. I would love to see a dry river bed along the left side of the house leading to a small water feature. Lastly, thank you to Weather Girl for the great information. Since I am not familiar with the conditions in that part of the country, I was happy to see that you do experience all the seasons. Do you get snow? We just had 7 inches for Easter, and are expecting about 3 more inches of the "white stuff" on Thursday.
Hope everyone had a great weekend and Easter.

Hey Everyone!

Well I am back from Kentucky! I leave New England on a nice sunny day only to arrive in Lexington in a snow storm - who would think!!!! Had to come back to New England to get some nice spring weather.

Kathy Seals - thank you for the information on the webmaster have sent an email and hopefully he/she will be able to assist me.

Erika (Cabincraver2008) - hon I did see your blog on the previous page. Hope Mom is home and doing better. She is still in my prayers and always in my thoughts as you are. Hope you had a wonderful Easter Day! Not easy taking care of a parent when you have children to take care of also. Just make sure you take care of yourself, don't overdue and get some alone time for you to just relax and have some quiet time! And when Mom is back please drop in to say "HI" and let us know how you are doing!!!!

Well I love the new choices - WOW! The only choices I would not want would be the railroad ties (do not hold up over time) and the outdoor speakers (would want to treat my neighbors better than having blaring music on a beautiful summer night! Can do with less noise in our lives.) Since they are not winning anyways would be extremely happy with all the other choices.

Love that we have a choice for tools space - love the roof color choices - love the patio design choices! Cannot lose.

Wil - I like your thinking about the hot tub. A must have! Great for old bones like mine and for anyone who has any kind of back problems. You haven't lived until you have sat in a hot tub during a snow storm - awesome!!!!

Watson - love the progess of the cabin but when will the chimmey be going up - it is still going up isn't it?????? Have you found anything out about the changes that are not suppose to be part of the cabin and what is going to be done about them?????

Have a wonderful "Spring Day" everyone!

Erin

Thank You Weather Girl who ever you are ! It is so nice to find that you have such mild winters in TN. Comparatively speaking of course.

Taxes, You could almost make a business giving tours of the home but I am not sure what the HOA would have to say about that?
Perhaps the DIY crew could hand the owner couple thousand of The DIY crew signed photos to auction off thru Ebay ? Or perhaps something simple like official DIY stickers,pens, or coffee mugs ?
Fact is, I would hate to see anyone have to sell this beautiful home because they couldnt afford the taxes.

Everything is coming together and it's looking realllly Good!!! I have been lucky with my voting for my favorite choices for the Blog Cabin. Most of my favorites win every time!!! I realy enjoy the Cabin Cam, It's amazing! Here's my Idea, A walking path to the lake from the cabin! Pretty landscaping along the way to sort of tie in with nature! Thanks Phyllis H.

I am surprised by the choices for roof. Why was metal not an option?

is there any way you could post the blueprins for the basement of the cabin with the San Jacinto floorplans?????

I'm confused. I thought this cabin had a wrap around(wood)deck so where does the brick patio go? I really don't see where any of these choices are too appealing except the stone hardscaping which Ahmed had already decided on back when he visited the site. If I had known these were the colors they were going to use for the roof, I wouldn't have voted for metal. I'm still upset about the lack of handicapped accessability and no one at DIY seems to be addressing the issue. Have you ever felt the pain in your back when you take a wheelchair over cobblestone? I would say NO or you wouldn't be putting it around this house but it's just one of many anti handicapped options that DIY and the bloggers are choosing.

This has to be by far the absolute best thing on my PC; to be able to watch the cabin come together and to have a say as to what goes into it. The cabin from last year was amazing and I am sure this one will top that. Great, Wonderful and Fantastic.

Great choices again. We voted for the outdoor fridge but we are wondering if there is going to be an outdoor kitchen for this fridge. Or just a spot for a barbeque grill?
Keep up the good work

Good Morning DIY Crew and Fellow Bloggers! :-) Just took a quick look at the cabin cam and it is really beautiful. I did notice that the left dormer window is off centered to the left, when compared to the right dormer. It is not aligned with the window below it. Is that a illusion from the camera? They just look off center. This is certainly an amazing location. Looking forward to the landscaping. I thought a large raised Lavender bed, Cone Flowers, and Lupins ect. I was also thinking a Weeping Cherry Tree on each corner of the house facing the lake. Their blooms are just beautiful in the spring. A nice evergreen also would draw the cardinals for color and a large Bird Feeder on the Lake side would also be nice.

Hello Whawkins and fellow bloggers!

Love these choices! Does this mean the huge area on the lakeside of the walkout basement will have gorgeous pavers and even(possibly) an outdoor kitchen?

Also notice an ad for Trex decking to the right of the page. Any chance for that on all those huge main level decks? If so, I'm voting for Brasilia style. It looks just like Ipe (Brazilian ironwood) which is very popular in high-end homes now.

Cabincraver & Erika: Still praying!

Hello one and all!

It's always fun when new things to vote on pop up. I am happy to say my choices are doing well. The views of the house are exciting now that it is starting to look like a real cabin. I continue to be thrilled by the views - can't wait until the trees leaf out!

When doing the garden, please don't forget about the bat houses I mentioned once before.

Weather Girl...thanks for the yearly temps in Spring City, TN.

I'm for the heater as I'm not lazy and would be happy to run to the fridge OR maybe I'm lazy and want to sit under the heater with hot cocoa.

Living near a large body of water lowers temps from 3 to 10 degrees and wind chill factors can also lower the temp. So I HAVE to opt for the heater so I can be with nature more often!

I'm for the fan stones as they remind me of the ripples on the lake.

Stones in the landscape from the land, as shown by Ahmed, brings natural beauty.

Those are the only choices that I'm passionate enough to advocate for **wink, wink, nudge, nudge**

The cabin is looking great!

I have a confession....I'm addicted to this web page. I check it out at least 3 or 4 times a day. The home is looking beautiful and it's amazing how quickly it is going up. Watching the progress is so exciting. Keep up the good work!

The outdoor fridge is the best idea so far. Coming in from the lake, whether boating or swimming, it'll save on the cleaning by just going to that fridge and grabbing something quick. Also, the stone is the only way to go. Termites LOVE those timbers. I don't care what you put on them, they, the termites, will find a way to eat them. This cabin will be loads of fun !!

I live in the south and I would think that a lighter color roof would be better for the hot summers we get down here. I also thing that the dark roof color will make the cabin too dark. I still think it would be nice if we could see the roof choices in contrast to the chosen finish on the logs.

I agree that I would rather have the speakers installed because of the wiring issues. I am a music person, but I personally listen to music that would not be that loud or disturb the neighbors.

Doesn't seem like as many are voting on the new choices. I am just trying to keep up. I switched my vote from the heater to the fridge because of the fireplace. This will be a nice cabin no matter what is voted in. I just hope whoever wins won't have to sell it like so many have had to sell their dream home. Anyone have any numbers on taxes that will be due.

Remember, leaves and sap fall on that light colored roof and how unsightly; the darker color will mask that. also, the stone scaping is a great idea. the fanned paver style choice is great, no specific focal point, so you could arrange anything, like a grill or FRIDGE on it, as far as a heater, if it is that cold, I am going to be INSIDE by the beautiful fireplace!
The craftsman workbench is a great idea for all the necessities for the garage,,

I love the colors for the roof. Last years green was a little too green for me. The neutral browns are great !!

Looks like we lost the arch windows in the front... sad... they added character to the cabin.

??? Does anyone know about the busing for kids going to school? Sould they catch the bus at the Cabin, or have to go to the Entrance of the Estates to get on???

Also waiting to find out the grounding with a metal roof (because of thunder storms)!!!

Connie, I agree with you and Clive. I really hope they decide to use the Trex decking. That would be so much easier to care for , just wash it off.
Good to see this roof going up so fast. I think this round of voting might be coming to an end a little sooner than usual with this progress.
I printed off the color choice for the siding and held it up against the photo on the main page , since it is the leading in votes. Not sure how accurate this is but its not too bad of a combo.
Erin , Wil, I would also love to see a hot tub somewhere in the mix. That would be the ultimate wouldn't it?
So, can we walk on this type of roofing to make repairs if necessary? I know the flat metal is not problem as long as you don't step on the ridges. But I have never worked with this type. You don't see too many metal roofs in Washington State. At least not "on homes" in the Wet half. Don't get me wrong, The rain is great to listen to ! But a week or two of straight rain or every second or third day can be a little much.
Another plug for the boiling hot water spigot. I like hot chocolate too.

I love the fan design for a patio. I had the round and it is hard to place patio furniture outside of it say in a square instead of a circle. Someone asked where the patio would be, well if I'm reading it right, underneath the upper deck w/access to the house from a doorwall. It would be a walkout basement. This one is a lil bit different, so I'm waiting to see how it really comes out. The way it looks so far, here in MI that is called a bi-level and not a walkout. Here a basement has to be underground on three walls to be called a basement. Yep, you can have daylight windows on those three walls and a doorwall or direct outdoor access on the fourth. According to my real estate neighbor anyways. I'm so hoping DIY will pop for both the outdoor speakers and the fridge. How cool would it be to have an outdoor kitchen and stero? You wouldn't get me inside except to sleep if I had that. Wait, I could sleep on the murphey bed on the screened in porch off the master. I want to say a big thanks to Weather Girl for posting them temps for us. OMG I so wanna win this. Those year round average temps sound like heaven to me. Yet again we poor sods in MI are getting more snow for the next couple three days. It won't last {we're all hoping} but some warmth would be appreciated about now, its been a long winter. We set record snow falls here where I live. Oh, lets not forget the workshop/garden/sports area. Why would anyone not want all three? Why couldn't all three be possible in the same space? Must have something to do with the man cave thing. I sure don't get it.

To Towny at March 26
The consensus is taxes will be about $200,000 +/- 10%. Steep but possibly not out of reach for some.

This is my first time to blog. I love love love this cabin and all the features are going to be great! And the location is my all time favorite!!
I did; however, vote for the outdoor heater because I am sure I would want to spend as much time as possible looking at that beautiful view and this heater would extend the time I could do that. Love the metal roof and feel the country color would be best with the cabin stain.
God bless and hope to keep blogging!

I like the darker colors for roofs, I know they don't reflect as much heat from the sun but it looks better on a cabin of this style.

Hi to all my blogging friends. I hope you all had a good a relaxing Easter. Ours was both and enlivened by 6 very active children to keep us old crocks on our toes. Wow, things have certainly moved along in the building, blogging and choices. I'll try to catch-up on all the blogs later. The new tip-line is fun too especially if you want a quick chat either 1on1 or with everyone to get a quick response.

It’s apparent that the cabin will not incorporate all the revised ideas from Darlene Branim but it still looks great. My only concern at this point is that so much of the south facing side is wall (there is only a single door and one window on the 1st level) that it will be a bit gloomy especially in the master bed and main room.

I have to agree with many other bloggers that it's a bit difficult choosing a roof color without it being juxtaposed to the wall color. Going light will certainly keep the cabin a bit cooler in summer but darker will help warm it in winter so there are no real 'winners' there. I'm assuming that the tones are similar because of the Regs and Covenants of Lakefront Estates which state that all roofs should be cedar shingles unless they give permission otherwise.

The stone is a no-brainer for the landscaping and it seems nearly everyone agrees with that.

I like the ripple/fan patio effect. Square would be OK as I assume it's going outside the walkout basement on the lakeside but the fan effect is in harmony with the ripples of the lake and doesn't delineate the space as much as the straight lines of the square would. The circle is my least favorite (not so the voting majority) as it really isn't in harmony with anything and tends to make everything draw towards the middle of the patio and away from the yard and the view.

I dislike outdoor speakers (just personal taste), much preferring live music or natural sounds. There's going to be a stunning media room to listen to as much music as one wants. I believe the patio should be a haven from electronic music, TV's radios etc. Somewhere to listen to nature and hold a conversation without competing with other noises. The deck above can have as much sound as you wish. The heater may be OK - they can be noisy and often too hot to get near- but I'm holding out for some sort of outdoor kitchen/living room with a fireplace/fire pit for warmth. Therefore, my vote is for the fridge. Imagine coming straight up from the lakeside, maybe after a fun paddle in the canoe, and finding a cool refreshing beverage waiting in the shaded, relaxing and comfortable outdoor living space. One of Ahmed’s rock garden features is on the north side of this and there is a pondless waterfall adding its own music to the scene. No need to go indoors yet, just unwind and enjoy the moment. I’m just wondering where DIY can put the outdoor shower which is a ‘must’ surely for this cabin, and a cooling misting system for those hot, humid 'dog' days.

Last, but certainly not least, our thoughts go out to CabinCraver to give her strength to confront her pain and our hopes for her full recovery. Also to all those others who are enjoying this cabin and the blogs so much and who have similar burdens to bear. Strength to you all.

The cabin is really coming along nicely. I just got through voting. I really like the Timberwood color/style for the roof. it goes wonderfully with the natural surroundings of the woods and the lake.

LOOKING GOOD :-) I agree with tina on the circle design. It does limit where you can put things. I like the timber roof the best and dont believe it would add that much heat to the cabin as long as it is on the water and you have a nice cross breeze through the cabin. I am quessing it can get pretty humid in Tennessee and having lived in Minnesota I know what humidty feels like, not to mention mosiquitos. When my family moved to Washington state we found that shade is really shade here :-)
I love the brick...but that is just me...I have seen so many beautiful patios and pathways. I also like the fridge outside as my hubby and me both come from families of six children and have many neices and nephews....hopefully grandchildren in time.
Keep up the great work you master carpenters...Jesus is smiling :-) God Bless Ruthie

I just want to say that this is the nicest
home blog around regarding sweeps for houses..
I've checked out a few others and people seem
sarcastic and greedy, this one is a pleasure to
be part of and everyone seems helpful and open
suggestion. Thanks 2 all, and good luck,

ps, I'm definetely into the hot-tub outside, if the steam shower lost out then that would be a great way to warm up after cooling down in the lake ..

I don't know anything about the taxes, but the cost of the lots alone in that area start at $159,000. This is a great lot (#5), so I'm sure it is even more costly than that. The cabin is looking good!! I can't wait until we get the chance to enter the contest.

I am rather disappointed in the colors for the roof. unless the hoa has restrictions I would love to see a red roof and a red front door. I agree a cash prize to help with taxes would be great because this could end up a financial night mare for the winner if they aren't able to pay the taxes. I love rocks, so saving the rocks from the property are a great way to save $$ and they go great with the look of the cabin. I too would love to see the pot filler.

Love the way the cabin is progressing and how it looks on the lakeside landscape. I am again voicing my opinion about the landscaping design. NATURAL. No high maintenance plantings please. How about a watersedge garden- water iris yellow and blue, catonine, etc. I know there are probably lots of restrictions about what can or can't be planted. Ahmed I know you will give us the best for the location.

Doug stated:
"I am surprised by the choices for roof. Why was metal not an option?"

Metal not only was an option...it WON. All we are choosing now is what color and style the metal roof will be!

Off to check out the cabin cam...can't believe the roof is going up already!

Melanie

Barbara:
According to Darlene Branim at Barna They added an arch window to the rear entry to match the master bath. Maybe they are going to do something later to have the openings. According to the plans there is a 3rd one on the 2nd floor as well.

I know we don't see all of the work but I was wondering about the waterproofing on the basement where the dirt has been filled against the exterior walls. Will more dirt be brought in and the basement be hidden from the road view?

I was also wondering why a garden window will be placed in the kitchen. The porch would be along that side and if it is a covered porch how will sunlight get to the window?

I don't see why two doors are needed of the dining area to the porch. A window would be great when you want to get a cross breeze.

I have seen a few emails about the heater and fireplace. The heater is for the patio and the fireplace is on the porch off the great room. I agree with another blogger about if it is that cold I will be near the fireplace or even inside the house. I like the frig since it will keep people from tracking into the house and basement to get a drink. It also will be great when you have a party or family get together.

I like the Timberwood roof color. It is not as dark as it seems. You also need to contrast the log stain color.

I have done a couple of blogs that were not posted for some reason. In both I had a note to the new comers about entry to win the cabin. That will start much later. The cabin has to be built first then start the contest to win it. Right now we are only making choices and watching the beginning work of the cabin.

By the way I also noticed the logs are not being used for the 2nd floor exterior. The plans show the logs. I guess this will be a half log cabin exterior. If anyone knows the answer please respond.

I don't see a picture today from the cabin cam so I will have to check back around noon.

((Barbara)) I'm confused. What arched windows in the front? All the windows in the floor plan are square. Can you clarify please? Thanks

I was wondering if you got my suggestion about a lake feed sprinkler system plus a back-up generator for power outages.

I would just like to suggest that the perfect lake Cabin would a path to the lake. With a Dock and on the a place to set on the Dock and a roof for shade. Been there liked it!

Hey does anyone know anything about the area of Tenn. where this Lakefront Estates is? I thought I saw that Helen - lived near there - cany she tell us a bit more about the area - schools, shops, neighberhood etc... I am quite curious is this a ritzy section of town or just a vacation place turning into a year-round town?? Also, does anyone have any ideas about what it is going to cost the winner of this cabin with all its luxory items we have voted on??

god bless cabin craver and erika:).
still dont know where the patio is going to be ??? whats up with that? im thinking that it will be off basement. i looked at the paver choices and all three looked ok to me but did vote for the circular one . also the out door fridge you could actually move it to deck or patio. and i have a hot tub so im thinking placeing side deck by master . we actually placed it [our mountain home] 3 steps out the breeseway door.
thankyou weather girl for the temps, so how much snow +rain?? . i was surprized about the mild weather tho. we're in mountains of az 7000 ft so what is the altitude in tenn? seems like every winter is different here been here 9 yrs and 1st winter of significant snow .
as far as the roof color butternut won for log color so i think dark would would contrast the best . but actually voted for the lite cause of the summer heat . niether is winning tho.
i loved the work bench.altho the sports center was interesting .

Could B.J.’s “dynamic duo”, or any of the other very knowledgeable souls that Blog please answer a few questions for me???? Things about the Blog are troubling me…

1. Do our votes for the options actually count? I happened to be on the DIY 2008 Blog Cabin site when the page for the new options loaded. I voted immediately, but to my surprise, thousands of votes had already been tallied, with clear leaders in every category. Guess that is possible, but, the ‘predetermined favorites’ were so far ahead in votes from the other choice numbers, that to overtake them seemed highly unlikely. The options that were the winners from the get-go are still the front runners. All the option choices are great, and the cabin will benefit from any of the additions. But … a choice is not really a choice if the voting outcome is predetermined … so, my question is … does anyone else think the options are already known, and DIY is just appearing to give us a say in the matter to generate interest in the project?

2. Why is it, if the entries are all held for review by the moderators that so few inquiries are ever answered by them? It seems that any real insight into the project details come from the Bloggers who take the time to do research and pass on their findings to the rest of us. My question again is, do you believe any of our comments, suggestions, or insights are taken seriously by DIY or the builder?

3. In the same vein as #2 … Do you think that Barna Homes knew of the Covenants and Restrictions before they were posted by a Blogger? We all know now that The San Jacinto plan, as presented at the time of voting did not even meet the community’s basic requirements. It was only after portions of the C &R were posted, that the builder appeared to realize that the original footprint of the project didn’t quite fit on the lot. Even then, with the exception of the addition of a basement to house the garage which was essential to meet the A.C.C. approval for street concealed garage door entry, the ‘final plans’ that Darlene unveiled don’t seem to have made it to the log package delivered to the job site. What else is being overlooked by the builder on this project? The cost of this ‘prize’ for the winner, has been a subject of many posts, and has been estimated at over $250,000.00. Could the winner be confronted with even higher costs to correct hidden oversights once they take possession of their fabulous prize? Someone posted that there are no RHEA county building inspections (NOTE: the septic system is scrutinized and its installation strictly regulated by the TVA), so, does anyone know if anyone is watching Barna Log Homes for possible costly building irregularities?

4. One final question …. If all the entries are being read for content, and our comments are taken seriously, why do you think that the discrepancies in the cabin being built with the final plan presented by Barna Log Homes’ president were not addressed in a timely manner? Again, if the decisions about the cabin changes were too costly, wouldn’t a simple post about that be appropriate? Did the builder and DIY just think nobody would notice the lack of continuity, or do the powers at be really even care?

It bothers me to think of all the Bloggers who have put so much heart and soul into this project, especially if it is discovered that all their great suggestions have been for naught....

Bottom line, I guess all my questions stem from my real concern ... Why did DIY create a Blog Area and instant Chat Area and act if our suggestions have merit if, in reality, our input really doesn’t amount to a hill of beans in the big 2008 Blog Cabin DIY picture?

Sleepless in Seattle

To Kathy Seals at March 27

The arched windows at the front (roadside) were included in Darlene's remodel blog of Feb 14th, together with the windows in the master bed. Looks like instead of adding an arched window to give symmetry they have decided to remove them both. Same for the M Br windows which have been omitted leaving only a single door on the S. Side.

to BlognBob at March 26

I do like 'Trex' decking but I know of a better product for this cabin. It's "RainEscape" http://www.rainescape.com/ from "Correct Deck"
http://www.correctdeck.com/
My brother-in-law installed it on his lake house which has a very similar design (not logs though) to this one. They have an extended, wrap-around deck and this product is ideal as it allows the lower space to be used with a completely sealed roof. All water, including when washing the upper deck periodically, is channeled away between the decking boards and down the rain downspouts. Thus the under patio is always dry and they can leave furniture outside in all but the worst weather. It also has similar finishes to 'Trex' with the addition that their CX product is impregnated with 'microban' an antifungal to keep the deck clean and is made from polypropylene so is more long lasting than some composites.

Hey how about that (possible) outdoor shower being located "under" the upstairs entertainment room. One could enclose it with a rocked wall matching the chimney materials and have a beautiful waterfall feature on the outside of it for the patio areas. "Talking about having a nice surprise double feature". The shower on one side and a waterfall on the other side. The shower room is where one could use the circle patio and also I suggest using the circular patio & screening in the rest of the area under there as a ground level entertainment or storage area. Then one could use the wavy patio on both sides of the the "basement level entertainment room " a matching & winding path down to the water.

The area where the Lakefront Estates subdivision in Rhea County is about 20-25 mins from central Spring City, off Rt 68, or Watts Bar Hwy. It is just across from the Meigs County boat slips and Park. Google maps have a pretty good map of the area.

Spring City is a small town going through a lot of growth, but they are succeeding in keeping the small town feel of the place. There are subdivisions popping up everywhere, really, everywhere. With the expected influx of people involved with the start up of the second reactor at Watts Bar Nuclear, there's a busy Real Estate sector! The High School is for the entire county.
The town center is charming, but the railway passes right through the center of town! Cuts it in half, actually. There's an Ace hardware store, a Piggly Wiggly grocery store, drug store, some restaurants, Family Dollar store, 3, yes THREE florists, King's Pizza (Best pizza we've had in ages)half a dozen Real Estate offices, about a dozen Churches or more, a couple of consignment shops, an upscale HoJo hotel and I am sure I have left out other businesses. Last I checked, the population was under 3,000. Rhea County has a pretty informative Website.There is a real mix of upscale homes, mostly on the lake's shoresides, vacation homes from rustic to beyond elaborate, and smaller, older homes. Any major department or specialty stores are in Chattanooga or Knoxville, about an hours' drive either south or north respectively. There's a Home Depot in Dayton (25 mins) and a Lowe's in Kingston (about 30 mins). You can't help but notice an automobile graveyard as you head into town on Rt.27.That's an eyesore, for sure.

Anyway, I hope this helps those of you that were curious about the area.

Regards,

Sheila

I have posted eleven blogs from four different pc's and none of them ever get on this page. They must limit them to only the same few people, I do notice that many of the blogs have the same names.. hope this gets through, maybe I will have to put a fake name for preference...LOL
anyway, I love the outdoor fridge idea, it is on wheels which will help moving it around, also the fan paving pattern will be great because with a circular one, there is a certain focal point, with fan, you can move things anywhere,, as far as the tin roof goes, the pics are MERELY EXAMPLES, this one is to show which colors, not the actual roofing.. the darker color would work best under trees because of moss and sap issues, which I have on my roof which now needs replacing after only 11 years! Stone hardscaping is great because bricks shift and eventually crumble(personal experience), railroad ties leech resin and/or creosote if they are so treated, also personal experience..
the quality of these products is top notch, as is the staff actually doing the buying and construction: great job all of you. Just think how nice a glider will be with that fridge next to it, sipping a frosty beverage, listening to the birds, hopefully seeing fireflies at night, or loons if they ever go there,, they are near me.. if I win, you all can come for a BBQ and try all the fun stuff out,if they do not restrict visitors too,,

Watson
thanks for your updates and your spirit. It is fun watching the progress and having opportunity to vote on features. I was also very happy to see multple others who were advocating for accessibility. I liked the idea of the elevator with matching doors so that it would fit right in.
It is nice being a part of this blogging community.
Onward and Upward!!!
Judy

http://www.tennesseetrustee.com/?BISKIT=1918367&CONTEXT=cat&cat=123483

On this Tennessee website you can calculate property taxes. I didn't know the county so I just copied the site for anyone that has the time and inclination to find out for themselves.

Love the cabin so far. Someone is going to be very lucky to win this place!

Belinda

Wow The roof is up so much progress I voted for the circle pavers but after reading the posts I have changed my mind I wanted to let cabin craver she is in my prayers we are all pulling for you I hope you win this one Keep up the good work Dottie

Kathy s. ... if you go to the floor plan you will see in the road view of the front of the house.. (which is what we are looking at in the cam)
There was suppose to be an arch window over the master bath window and over the window in the loft (over the front door) and they said that they were adding a arch window over the back door
porch (mud room).... and it doesn't look like we are going to get them...

Blognbob I am so surprised you have never seen lightning bugs (fireflys) or wild turkey! But being from ky I see them regularly. I never thought about the northerners not being able to see such delights. They are fascinating bugs and big birds. I was one of the little kids who diamond ringed them light bugs. I didn't know any better mind you bug lovers! I do know that in the Smoky Mountains you see wild turkey alot. There was some at the last cabin we rented digging through our trash! Really digging through the trash! After Corn cobs.... Around the blog cabin I don't know for sure if there would be fireflys. Turkeys probably! I would think they would be there. That is an hour or so away from the Smoky area. Fireflys I'm not sure about but if you were to ever visit Pigeon Forge, Tn area go to Cades Cove. That would be the likely place to see them! It's a great big mountainous cove farm park. Just gorgeous! One of my favorite places! There are wild turkey and deer and bear there! We like to go there a couple times a year. We get out in one of the big fields and fly kites in the spring time and have a picnic. The best time to see the lightning bugs if they are there would be right before dark when the ground starts getting damp. You would see them start flying up out of the ground and off the trees. They are alot of fun to watch & try to catch and let crawl on you no matter your age.... I have enjoyed this delight my whole life and even have taught my kids to catch and release them. You don't see them like you used too though! It won't be long they will be returning!

Love the new cabin slide show pictures! Being able to see all around the cabin was really nice and the view will be spectacular through those french doors and entertainment room at the lakeside/ back. I can't wait to see our doubled fireplace in there! Looks like you got cement floors in the basement somehow.... and we have what looks like roughed in plumbing in the cubby hole. So I think that means there will be a full bath or kitchenette down there! yeah!!!!!!!! Can't wait to see finalized floor plans for the entire house. Also alot of the bloggers are worried about the sunburst windows that's mentioned in the original layouts on the front windows. We all would like to know if that has been changed or not. I see that there is both windows and a door on the master bedroom/garage wall. I think that will be alot of light coming in. I personally would love to see a lake scened stain glass window with a hidden diy symbol in a fish in the master bed or bathroom window. That would be a cool reminder of where and how the house come from.

'Sleepless in Seattle' does have a valid point. There has beeen absolutely no comment from the DIY people regarding the apparent mix-up in the plans except a terse comment from Watson that they were 'looking into it'. Certaily, in some areas we are being herded into voting for what they want by engineering the photos of the options such that there is an obvious choice and a bunch of also-rans. Maybe letting the 'people' have too much say is not a good thing for the producers of the show?

Thank You so much Carrie Miracle, for the information on the fireflys and turkeys. Nope ! Have never seen either one in my life. But I am anxious to come visit TN. some time in my life , as I know I have distant family somewhere around there. I am going to write those places down, so I remember to see them ! Turkey in the trash? Only turkey I seen in the trash was the one I threw there. I see That Piney island is historical in one way or another but I can't find any info. on how it is. There is no turkey in Washington that I have ever heard of. Perhaps I need to get a few and plant them out in the hills up there. Definitely not lightning bugs. Now my question to you Carrie is; have you ever seen a Geoduck? Which in a way leads to my next conversation with one of former locals.

Sleepless in Seattle, I lived in the shoreline area for a short time. How is the rain? If you all noticed, I said rain, not weather.

As I was planning beforehand to address this in regards to some previous inquiries , I believe this cabin is providing a lot of very good advertising for this particular development , and also helping to promote the surrounding properties and homes in what appears to be a higher end of the local market. And this Cabin "may", and again I say "may" have just a very slight leeway with the rules. Given its importance) I doubt there might be little too much leeway , but I believe there must be just a slight bit. Otherwise we could not change the work in progress as we have done.

Clive alive and well I hope ? Nice chatting with you. And Thank You for the info. on rainscape and correctdeck. I "will" look those up right after this post! If you say it is good , then I would support you in it 100 percent. I am really curious about that draining system now. Do you know if this is city or well water? Hard or soft water ? I think I remember a post about a lot of iron in it.

Sheila, Thank You so much for your wonderful information on the area. It is always nice to get to know an area from some good local folk. Wow , that is a small town .

The house is looking absolutely wonderful DIY !
Thank You Ever so Much !

Thanks for the update on the camera slide show. It is so wonderful to see the progress on the Blog cabin both from camera and the tree camera. I'm glad to see spring is coming on strong and that means that summer will not be far behind with August here before you know it!

you want bikes and such at a VACATION home not rakes and shovels

Good morning, all! Just had a chance to look at the latest pictures! Like everyone else, I'm sure, I can imagine myself walking out of that cabin to that wonderful view!

It's almost like we are all home builders watching it go up. I hope that the new owners will get an album of all these great pictures.

Happy watching!

I am curious why the builder didn't use P2000 insulation for the roof. My opinion is that this product is one of the better on the market and provides an R-value second to none. Feedback would be appreciated!

Thanks and happy building.

Hi everyone, it's me. I'm home. So much is going on and I need to rest all the time that when I am sitting here I am just going to read and see what you guys have been up to, who is saying what, etc. Bless all of you that sent your thoughts and prayers! Erika said she sent one blog that had everyone's name, and she was hoping that Erin saw it as it was on a previous page.

I have one thing to say and then I must go. We have an outdoor firepit and outdoor speakers plus a hot tub. The firpit is great because it is easy to move and several people can gather around it. The hot tub keeps us warm, and the music keeps us relaxed or singing or dancing; whatever the mood. I hope they install the speakers because wiring a house once it is built is very tricky and can make a mess if the contractor doesn't know what they are doing.

I've missed you all, love the new voting choices, hello to Watson and Ahmed, and MAY THE WORTHIESST BLOGGER WIN!

Back to beddiebye. Keep it up! Cabincraver2008

Hey! Did you notice the cement truck next to the house in the photos from last night (Thursday, March 27). I think that they might have actually poured the basement floor.

About the arched windows: is it possible that they will cut the arches out just before they install the windows? Just a thought.

It would be nice if the Moderators would jump in and answer some of our questions. :-) Over on the Dream House Blogs, fcole does that quite often. It is great fun! PLEASE!

I have been following the Blog Cabin for quite some time and been an addict of DIY since I've had DirecTV. I have been reading what others have said about this cabin and it's great that there's this community of folks blogging for a chance to win the cabin; designed by voters (us). I have a father who works in the supply of construction (lumber and stuff)and is extremely knowledgable about every facet of construction from ground up and even he is intrigued about this whole process of voting and computers having a say in the winner of a cabin. We grew up watching PBS, Bob Vila, Norm Abrams and the group of This Old House. I am now addicted to the DIY channel and have had fights with my wife for the remote.
If there was "How It's Made" from the Science Channel move to the DIY Channel, there would be only be one channel that I watched when I watched.
By the way, I live in Long Island, NY.

I am from Arizona...we don't have lightning bugs or wild turkeys here...rarely have mosquitoes either. I have never experienced the need for a screened porch. Didn't even have a snowflake this year, but it did get cold. I have never been to TN and I cannot wait to go there!!! To my own cabin!!

Thanks DIY and Watson the new choices are great again. It was nice to see Amy again and the side show was good. One question how far off the road is the cabin and how close is it to the lake? From one of the pictures it look like you were going down to the cabin from road. Thanks to Sheila for the Info.

Good day out there this will be my last blog for about 8 days I will be going on vacation to Destin Florida. Would you believe that I am 31 and never seen the ocean I am pumped up ready to go. I wish you all the best while I am gone I pray for a safe return and will be excited to see the progress that has been made while I was away. I hope you have great weather to work in while I am away. With this I leave you the best wishes till I return and I will miss you all take care I am off for those sunny beaches wish you could join me. Keep up the good work be sure and vote and I hope I be back soon enough to vote for some more of these wonderful choices we have been given.
Thanks Will Webb

Thank you to Lynn for the estimate of the taxes.  I am just an average guy and don't make the big bucks.  How does everyone feel about moving?  My wife was a military brat and she has moved 48 times and that has been hard for her.  Her family is originally from Tennessee and she lived in Tn for awhile.  Home is where the heart is and if its with family, as it usually is, does everyone have family and or friends close to the cabin?  I am just curious.  Good luck to all who are voting and blogging.  The voting is going well and the guys who are building are doing a superb job.

Chat's gone???

Anywoo, love the new videos The cabin is really comming together nicley. Love to come here everyday and see tha progress. Can't wait till it's done! :o)

If you have not looked at the cabin cam be sure to check it out. They have started the porch on the right side where you see the driveway.It looks like they are doing something at the front entrance porch as well.

How can they have so much trash? Think green and save larger boards and pieces to use where you can. My brother and sister-in-law did the clean up almost daily when they built a really beautiful home on a lake. They demanded builder use what they could and monitored them. They kind of were like a GC. They saved a few thousand dollars in building their home doing these types of materials savings and sweat equity like cleaning. They also found some of the materials and got them cheaper than the builder quoted, flooring, tile and appliances were big ticket items. Unfortunately we can not be there to do those things but it is green to use what you can and put less in the landfill.

I voted for the work station but not for my husband for me.
I think the outside heater will lengthen the time out in the evening.
Hate the railroad ties (because we have them everywhere) love the stone.
I can’t wait to see some landscaping plans.
Tracy

I just got a look at the home today and it is coming along fantastic. The way the this home is set with the front facing the water reminds me of my great-grandmothers. We would go there in the summer as children and when it would rain we would stand under the front porch to get soaking wet. It was so much fun! I was really disappointed when her home was lost to the family, I would have love to have had it. Is there a way to have a water saving feature like this installed in this home? I know that you can buy rain barrels for the ends of your drain work but I am not certain how they work now. People don't realize it but you can have the nicest, shiny hair that you have ever had by just rinsing your hair with this type of water that has not been treated with chemicals. It can also be used for watering gardens, pets, running into a pond etc. I don't know what the rainfall is there but we have certainly been short on that in the last few years and I think it is something that we all need to think about. I installed one at my home but it is a homemade contraption and that is what I use the water for.
I can hardly wait for the cabin to be finished to see the completed product. It is going to be beautiful.

WOW WATSON !

I knew you guys were up to something special but this is spectacular! The site is Awesome! all these new colors, videos, slide shows, etc...And what wonderful pictures throughout.One of my favorite photos is seeing the driveway winding thru the trees. But they are all so beautiful ,so it is tough to pick a favorite.
Ahmed, Chris, Simon You are doing such an awesome job ! This is all incredible. I really liked the tour of the Barna Mill by Darlene, Amy and Ahmed. Reminded me of home. My Great Grandparents owned a logging company in Oregon way back when. I could almost smell those fresh cut logs.
I also liked the slide shows with the Updates and Chris Grundy. Great Shots. Will the tool man have a vblog added?
DIY , you are really outdoing yourselves this time. Everything is really picture perfect.

Hi Fellow Bloggers,
Cabin is looking great!! What was the cement truck for? Maybe the patio? If so, why are we still voting? I'm also confused as to where the patio is going to be. I'm also confused about the window placements. LOVE the idea of an outside shower. We visit the Outer Banks every summer and wouldn't dream of renting a house without an outside shower. It REALLY saves on the cleaning and mess inside the house.
Clive - so happy to read that you had a great Easter. Same here, except for the SNOW! I agree with all of your choices. Can't wait to read more of your landscape ideas. I too want a dry river bed with a waterfall or water feature. The sound is totally relaxing. It reminds me of the ocean.
Cabincraver and Erica - you are still in our prayers and thoughts.
Have a great weekend and THINK SPRING!!!

Welcome back Amy for your visit, loved the info, you, Ahmed and Darlene filmed for us on how the logs for blog cabin are made, was very interesting. I also saw you on tlc, a couple of weeks ago, with the new trading spaces! Good Gig again. You lucky girl!

Hey, hey !!! Amy !!

How lovely to see you on the Blog Cabin Vlog !!!

We could sense the fine spirit of camaraderie

between you and your buddies on site !

Thanks for coming back for a VIP Guest Appearance!

~ We bloggers have fond memories of you

building and blogging the

very first DeLuxe Blog Cabin :o)

We are just spectators this time around,( but

of course we do enjoy voting daily for the

brilliant choices of finishes for the Blog Cabin!

we also look forward to entering the sweepstakes

in August!)

This will be our one - and - only blog, but we

do enjoy watching Ahmed and the Usual Suspects

( Chris and Simon !) working hard to raise Blog

Cabin 2008 ~ We can almost smell the aroma of the

woodmill when we check out the Cabin Cam each

day! The cabin will be beautiful and the

location is superb, Mother Nature is awesome !

We hope you are having fun wherever your

career path has taken you ...

Wishing you happiness! Goodbye :o(

Goldilocks and The Three canoe-loving Bears.

Wow! I love log cabins and especially lakeside cabins. A light-colored roof such as tan or green would blend into the natural site well. Thanks DIY crew for all your hard work on this gorgeous cabin and site.

It all looks fabulous. Someone has obviously put a great deal of time and energy into designing a home anyone would be proud to live in. Thanks for your great work - it's fun to follow the dream unfolding.

I have to agree a back-up generator is a must...

I'm also beginning to think that the cabin is already in the works before our votes go in...
The pic's and the work on the cabin don't match or go with the blogs...

It seems that after the next project starts, they're going back to post a pic (suposively of the day)

Other pics showed cement floor in basement, but we're just now seeing the cement truck...
??? Maybe someone else could elaborate on it???

It's OK... I still enjoy seeing the progression of the cabin, but I'm just adding my opinion...

Our prayers are with you Cabincraver & Erica!

The roof choices are the ugliest I've ever seen. If you want faux shingles why bother with metal, just go with shingles. And, since I am already compaining, it would be nice to see these colors against the chosen stain. Browns don't all match.

I love Ahmed's idea to save the native stone for the landscape. Perfect! And, Ahmed, I STILL want a multi-level log fort for the kids to play in.

Good grief Colleen! (Sleepless in Seattle) you have WAY too much time on your hands! Why is it that there's always someone that's more than willing to bring everyone else down? To pick apart things and always look at the negative in everything? Take a chill pill and GO TO SLEEP!!

The cabin is coming along nicely. I've put Blog Cabin in my Favorites and it's the first thing I click on when I get home from work. I enjoy the voting and watching the cabin progress. It's great fun...and if there is some Great Dark Conspiracy going on...I REALLY just don't care.

Happy Blogging!
Belinda

Sorry Colleen! I got the blogging posts mixed up.

My four year old son and I just started watching the 2007 Blog Cabin on TV. He loves it. We need to DVR it because it's on to late for him to be up, but we watch it the next day when I get home from work. I just came to the website and started voting. Outdoor heater? A little over the top, but why not I guess...I voted for the speakers, they can be used year round. I didn't quite care for the metal roof options, but voted anyway. Great show and great ideas. I wish I had time to read all the blogs, but its time to tackle my home projects.

I like the Blog Cabin designs for the Landscaping, However, I'd like to see Native Trees, plants and possibly a garden area such as a small grapevine and a couple of fruit trees such as apple or cherry.

Another suggestion is to use a wood or pellet stove such as a central boiler unit in the next blog cabin to help offset rising fuel bills and to go a little greener.

The cabin could also use a tankless hotwater heater and be built with a Southern exposure.

DenseArmor wallboard could be used on walls in bathrooms, and the kitchen to help cut down on mold etc.

I really like the idea of a garage with a work bench/ work center but since I also own garden equipment I'd like to see both in the garage.

Maybe on your next project you could have a greenhouse buitl as well.

Are y'all using Energy Efficient lighting, Water conserving faucets and shower heads?

Well take care and keep up the good work. Some of the stuff y'all are installing is a little too rich for me, But I still like it.

BTW I'm a first time blogger but I've voted on what I like in past cabins and this one as well.

Wow, I hope this voting ends soon so that metal roof can go on. I'm guessing that the insulation is wrapped to prevent it from getting wet, it looks a little cloudy.

Clive...what a unique name! Seeing as how there seem to be so few....are you the Clive on HGTV? It's just been making me wonder with all your knowledge... ;)

As BlognBob said, "Thank you Weather Girl", I had no idea that is how the temps are out there(I'm in northern AZ). How's the humidity though, of course not taking into account being right on the lake, I mean for the general area?

I also agree with the drawbacks of the circle patio design, really draws the eye to the wrong area. I like how the fan design, I think it would really draw the eye to the beautiful surrounding landscape and nature.

Thank you all for your continued wealth of knowledge and anecdotes.

Praying for continued strength and healing for CabinCraver2008 and her family!

You can always get an outdoor fridge or heater but you have to wire for outdoor speakers. With this in mind which would you rather do, pay for fridge/heater later or for wiring from your indoor system to the outside? I think it would be best to at least install the wiring during the building process.

Hello Fellow Bloggers
Did now think I would find time while I'm in Houston to get on line to vote & blog.
I should have known that I would make the time. Even with every thing I have to do to help my son move in his new home.
Love the progress that has been made since I flew out on the 25th! Read most of the blogs and everyone is doing a great job as usual.
Got to get back to work! I leave here Tuesday morning to fly back into Lexington.

Baskets of Blessings & Happy Blogging
Joyce

I would to have a larger selection of colors for the roof.

first time bloging hope o do more of it cabin will be great no matter what but dont think it needs the outdoor heater

hello to all - luv the circle design for the patio floor - i feel there should be other color (nature colors?) in the patio stones rather than all the same. keep up the great work !!!

GUYS, Love all the new things going on! The chat is lot's of fun ! You are all going way over the top and moving fast.

Helen,
It was so nice to talk with you a bit on the chat. And given your input I would like to strongly suggest to the DIY crew the necessity of and push for removable screens for the front deck. Or perhaps roll down netting of some sort. That could easily be set in the eves or above the openings , obscure and out of the way when not needed. Much like a portable screen awning. As the insect attacks apparently vary greatly with the season in this specific area.

Perhaps, a reason as to why our questions are not directly responded to aside from time contstraints may have a little something to do with the creating of personal affiliations with the bloggers and staff. Which could in reality, could legally eliminate us from entering to win this Cabin when the time comes couldn't it? It is just a guess on my part.
While there are some apparent things that appear to have been overlooked by our commentary, There have been major changes implemented that are in definite response to suggestions made in this blog. ie...A major floor plan revision, and a walk out basement with garages. Either way, the home is being built to be given away and I am Thankful for being even a smallest part of such a grand effort.
I guess, even if I had to sell the home , which I would dearly dread. At least I will always feel it a very nice part of my life for the friend I have made along the way.

I hate to beat a subject to death but,how about solar pamels either on the roof or free standing facing southerly for maximum sun angle but I do like what hyas taken thus far!
Rodney

IT TRULY AMAZES ME HOW FAST EVERYTHING IS GOING ALONG.I DREAM OF BEING THERE IN THAT CABIN.ON THE DECK LISTENING TO NATURE. I PREFER THE DARKER ROOF AS I THINK IT WILL SHOW THE CABIN BETTER. ALSO I LOVE THE FAN DESIGN, IT IS DIFFERENT AND I LOVE DIFFERENT. ALSO THE STONES OF COURSE, BEING NATURE LOVING. I THINK IT WILL JUST ADD TO THE BEAUTY OF THE SURROUNDING. HAVE ENJOYED WATCHING THIS CAN,T WAIT FOR MORE. DREAMING MY NITES AWAY!!!

WATSON!

Not yelling at you just trying to get your attention!!! Since the blogs have not been updated since the 27th and it is now the 30th you will have a bit of reading to do! It appears that the decking is going up (look at the cam on the garage side of the house) yet the fireplace still has not been built. When is this going up or has this been changed like the windows??? And talking about the windows you said you would get back to us about the changes in the cabin that are not suppose to be there - are you still going to do this or are you going to leave us hanging?????? Just asking - from the north and use to being direct that's all!

Carrie - being from the Northeast which is also the north we have fireflies and wild turkeys along with deer, fox, elk, and various other wild creatures in our woods - I have woods next to my house and have wild turkeys, deer, woodchucks, fox and I am sure many other animals that I have not seen yet! When we first moved here my cats went wild when they first saw the wild turkeys on their lawn and then did not like it when those deer came up to the door and went nose to nose with them! Neither knew what the other was apparently!! Like you as kids we made rings out of fireflies (we also did not know better at the time) and you are correct the best time to see them is right after dark. Since Blognbob is from the north I am assuming he is from the north in the western area of the country and the not the eastern part of the country like me! I am surprised like you that he also has not seen a wild turkeys or at least a firefly - if he does not live near woods I can see why he may not have seen a wild turkey but a firefly is every where. So Blognbob what is the scoop????? Maybe this is just something you see along the eastern coast line.

Erika - hope Mom is doing better and home again! Remember to take care of yourself - can't afford to have you get sick!!! Those young ones of yours would not be happy if their mother was under the weather so be sure to take care of yourself.

Clive - waiting to see if they listened to you about the deck or not - can you tell what type of material is being used?

Still hoping for that hot tub and an outdoor shower would also be great to have. (hint-hint)

Hope everyone is enjoying their "Spring" days since I am - it is so nice to have weather in the 50's again and rain instead of snow (hahaha).

Take care all!

hi fellow bloggers and diy,
the voting this time was hard every thing seemed so nice,but i was very surprized to see that the majority voted for the stones over the clean lines of the railroad ties or the brick,id really like to know why. i had a rock garden once and it seemed never ending cleanibg and stones rolling away in a storm and they are great for worms to breed under...thank god i have a hubby that goes fishing...lol
anyway im going to go with the railroad ties because they have that old town western look , you may not agree but thats ok eveybody has all kinds of good ideas these are just mine.railroad ties and a log home just go together.
you guys at diy are doing a fantastic job i kepp watching the old cabin being built and i write down some of you great ideas...the biggest one that impressed me was the painted rug , i still cant get over that one...i think a little fringe painted on the ends would of made it go over the top but otherwise thumbs up.
all have a reat day
margaret shannon,maine

The Chris Grundy visit pictures give a good view of every side except the mbr which helps a lot to see the final design layout. The long shot is great for enabling us to see how exactly the cabin fits into the plot and the plot to the surroundings. It really is a great place.

Wow this cabin is really looking great! I can't wait for the show to start so we can see it in action!

Hello, back from Zion National Park. Beautiful, peaceful, and had warm sunny weather (mostly).

Not much time to read blogs now though. Went from feeling refreshed to stressed in a day. Will catch up later this week. Also, had 7 new inches of snow the first day back. Just glad it was snow and not rain. Thankful we aren't dealing with the flooding hardships of the Midwest... After Zion, we really have spring fever so the snow was kind of disappointing.

Did have a chance to vote though! Only item I'm not in line with this round is my vote for the speakers. Only because I feel this would be the most difficult to add post-construction.

later all!

This years hse is going to be awesome!Good luck to me, Good luck to me, Good luck to me.....

From KC in AZ!!

One comment made, is why not have a lighter colored roof. People, English sued is lighter in color.

Sheila-Thank you for the information on Spring City = and to weather girl thank you for your post on the average temps - that helped in my vote from the heater to the fridge. I think that will be a better choice, although I think it will be costly either way, it does not seem like the choice we have are enegery efficent nor are they cost efficent. I think that no matter who wins - you are going to pay heavily year around for this grand cabin - which is coming along just beautifully I see! Cant beleive how fast it is going up!

Looking forward to the next round of voting. Merry:-)

Hello bloggers:

Well bee busy since Easter hopey yall had a good one.

Love the new choices we have to vote on.

The outdoor frig is the answer for all that wanted a wine cooler.

I like the fan patio like some said it goes with the flow toward the lake. The circle would make furniture placement confusing.

All the roof colors look great, I chose the last one.

I hope cabincraver is ok. Still in my prayers.

Keep blogging all

Mary from Texas

is it just me or has there been no progress with the cabin in the past three days, it seems as though they are waiting for the roof color to be determined, what do ya'al think

Hi All - It looks as if the winners for the new selection can be "projected" as they say in the elections. I am sorry to see that the patio fan design won't be included in this cabin. If you could see it standing looking out to the lake your eyes would not see a defined patio area but a flow into the landscape. Once the furniture is also included in the design it isn't busy at all but very eye appealing. The other designs define the patio area as a seperate space in the landscaping not part of the overall cabin to lake. Oh well, the majority rules and DYI has given us the opportunity to be included in the choices. Thank you.

Sheila you gave a pretty good description of the town. My family and I went for a drive from ky on Saturday March 29 and drove through Rhea county & Spring City area up S27 and got lucky was able to drive by and check out the diy cabin. Sheila's right, it is a very small town indeed divided by the railroad. It's charming! Had some neat looking restaurants nearby the ho jo. It was raining and it was around 4pm when we arrived so we didn't stay & look too long. I saw where the old rail road runs through going toward the blogcabin. Now I understand that choice on the voting. The town apparently has alot of railroad history. There should be an abundance of old railroad timbers in the area for builders to work with. The lot and house is just gorgeous. They are working on the porches as we see from the cabin cam. It absolutely did not disappoint me. The blog cabin builders and crew is doing a fine job. Give those guys a bonus diy. I was so thrilled to really see it in person. Thanks hubby for taking me! The water looks several feet low right now in the cove behind the house. I do wonder if it will be deep enough for a boat dock but I wasn't right down to the water level at the back so that would be hard for me to know for sure. They do have a walking / bike trail winding through the trees in the subdivision and I saw the gazebos in the streets. I would love to hang out or walk there. And I saw 3 other houses in the subdivision. I saw a dock from across the road, lots, lake across the road (standing in front of the house) looking across street. It sits on a pretty little cove water all around the little cove, lots of trees. Very pretty place. I was impressed. It looks like it will be an upscale place for the town. We saw several canadian geese on the property and I even spotted a grey heron standing in the water to the right lot next to the blog cabin. This home really is something special. We were the only ones there at the time: So, we thought: We stood on the road or culdesac in front of the house. Hubby Chris even took my picture standing in front of it. While we were being nosey in the front I got spooked by about 5 fisherman walking out from behind the house. Kind of scared me, I couldn't help but think they would do that when you are living there. Probably have to be watching your kids and pets and making sure the doors are locked at all times. Just in case. You just never know these days. But they just walked on past & waved. I stared on for a few minutes. Wishing it was us down there closer to the house. A fishing! (yeah right) spying! It was lightly raining and a little muddy. We didn't go down to the house, I thought that would be trespassing especially with no one there! It was alot of fun to actually be there. Yes, I liked the area, it's a very small town, Got the lake there, but we like to fish, really and we even saw the nucluer evacuation route: That freaked my 14 year old out a bit. She said it can't be safe there with that route there. She kept trying to talk us out of voting for it. You know kids. But I think that has something to do with the fact she don't want to leave home /friends! Because me and daddy said If we were lucky enough, We'd like to move there full time! (I don't think she liked that idea) The town is small but it is within a hour give or take a few minutes to Knoxville, Pigeon Forge, Seveirville Tn for the shopping, eating, and entertainment. (dollywood). But I grew up in a very small town much like the area and we always had to drive for the shopping. Didn't look like there was much to do right there. Unless you like small town atmosphere and fishing. Jobs might be hard to come by there in the home town! You would probably have to drive for work, I'm a guessing! I could be very happy there I'm sure. I can't wait for the chance to put in our vote to try to win this place it's gorgeous! I would hope we could afford to keep it. We left ok hubby drug me away, we then drove on down toward Maryville, right past last years blog cabin ( no we didn't go to it) did that last year & then drove toward Townsend then from there went into Pigeon Forge, Seveierville, Tn Stopped and buddy's bbq it was about an hours or so drive . The mountains were pretty with the fog a hanging low in the mountains. And then we come back through Knoxville on the way back to Ky. It was a long drive. Wore me out but it's quite a lovely mountainous farm area and curvy roads the way we went. I've been sick with a cold for 2 weeks so I got a little car dizzy sick. But it was a very pretty drive. I enjoyed it! The fresh air did me good as they say. We saw quite a bit of trees starting to bloom. Especially the white Bradford pears. I couldn't help but think how pretty the area has to be in the fall time. And yes BlognBob there is wild turkey 5 minutes ( we saw them in a empty field) from the blog cabin so they have to visit the cabin sometimes I'm sure. Now if we could just get an affirmative on the fireflys. Right!

hi guys so i finally saw the pics taken 3-21 and the windows in the master are non existant 2 doors are you kidding me? i knew that the plans didnt reflect some of the changes but i thought not a big deal, but they built it according to the plan. it does seem weird that this has been mentioned in the blogs and no one has addressed it yet. seems like its getting a bit late to fix it
to carrie and blogginbob, we had lighting bugs in ia when i was a kid haven't seen many lately, we now are in mnts of az, guess its too dry.
other than the window/door thing of the master. the pics are great. the lake looks so close . omg its just too pretty !!!! sure would like to see the floor plan of the basement. with this slowdialup it took me about 30 min to get thru those pics but soooo worth it .
oh before i forget godbless cabincraver and erika!

I am excited just to have the opportunity to vote for a beautiful cabin that one lucky person will win but it seems like there is a lot more complaining in the blogs then there is excitement. I don't understand why? Here is a beautiful place with lots f exceptional features and if you don't like them you can change them if you win! Good luck to everyone.

May we have a few different photos of each of the items we're voting on. Because of the angle, I can't really see the style of roof that won. It looks just like the roof pic on the far left to me. The same for some of the other features like patio, tiles, and colors. One small photo isn't enough to see what it will look like. Thanks in advance.
Also, speakers are cheap....can we have those outside too, along with the fridge that won? Then Simon and the guys can crank some tunes and have a cold beer when it's a wrap. I think some of the "close second" votes should just be thrown in for good measure. Hehe.

Rodney at March 29, 2008
Free-standing solar panels don't seem to be allowed by the Lakefront Rules & Covenants from the bits of them I have read. Solar shingles incorporated into the roof would work but they would have a lifespan of less than half of the rest of the roof and are very costly to replace compared with metal roof or cost of electricity. It's green but very inefficient costwise.

Hi Noël B at March 29
No I'm not 'that' Clive but a fellow countryman. It's a more common name across the pond.

Hi CabinCraver. Great to see you back on the blog. I hope you are rested and regaining strength. Good point on the speakers, however, I prefer just the sounds of nature down on the patio. It may be a good idea if the builders left some spare capacity in the wiring, plumbing etc to allow easy expansion of certain things if the eventual winner wanted.

Hey BlognBob I wrote a bit to you on the tip-swap chat about the Spring City water supply. However, I'll repeat it here for all to read and check if they wish.

I have found some information on the source of Spring City water supply http://gwidc.memphis.edu/website/dws/risk/GWI_Maps/Spring%20City_nomap.pdf

Erin,

Nope ! Never seen a lightning bug , except at Disneyland in the Pirates of the Carribean ride if that counts? If they have them anywhere along the Western states please someone let me know where and I will plan a special trip down there just to see em.
I lived in the Mountain areas of Washington State most of my life. And also along the Columbia River Gorge. Seen lots of Deer, Elk, Moose, Grizzley, and in Yellowstone Natl. Park and Canada, a lot more wildlife. Especially Buffalo. But I can honestly say I have never seen a wild turkey. I have seen Eagle, Osprey, Heron,and countless other birds , and we even had a turkey vulture for a pet once. But never seen a wild turkey. Lots of Racoons and Opossum but no turkey. If someone knows where in WA. these might be please let me know.
Thank You Carrie Miracle ! For breathing some relief to my soul. That there are turkey in the Watts Bar area. I can all but rest now. jk. Really, Thank You for your wonderful descriptive of the area. And confirming my concerns for others fishing in the area coming to visit. Please take care of that cold.
Again, Love all the new photos and work being done. It is so much fun to watch and talk about.

I see Tennessee has the 5 lowest tax burden of all states. That may help a bit with running costs of the cabin.

For those of you who think an outdoor fridge is a good substitute for a wine fridge- you would be wrong. Picture this, you are spending the weekend at your beautiful cabin on Watts Bar Lake and its winter. Lets have a bottle of wine with dinner. Do we have any in the kitchen? No, we have to go outside to the outdoor beverage fridge. And by the way, I wouldn't leave any beverages in the outdoor fridge - especially alcohol- when I'm not there. That said I appreciate that not everyone enjoys a glass of wine or any alcohol for that matter.
I voted for the outdoor speakers because they would be hardwired. Easier now than later.
And just an FYI for those of you who voted for railroad ties. They are considered toxic and it is very difficult to get rid of them. Not to mention that they rot faster than stone.

About the fishing, at Watts Bar, are there sturgeon there? Now that is some fishing if you can catch one.
Clive , Carrie Miracle, Erin , and all. If ever in Seattle be sure to visit Pikes market. You can see the Space Needle then take the sky tram down to the market and not have to worry about parking or driving around. They also have Geoduck for sale there at the Flying fish counter. I have dug up some Geoduck in BC that make these tiny in comparison. Being a church going man of many years it is difficult to explain a Geoduck in any regards. So, I am posting a video clip from the daytime series dirty jobs which best displays a Geoduck. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=raCUc5A6FHU My apologies for lack of a better way to explain.
Yes, it appears we are a little ahead of the game with the roofing aren't we? Just goes to show the DIY crew is on the job. Thank You guys !

Thank you Chris Grundy for the great slide show. Seeing all sides of the cabin gives a clearer perspective on all the possibilities for the lot. You are all doing a great job! Those doors and windows facing the lake will enhance the relaxing atmosphere within the cabin. Since the start of the Cabin Blog, I had been hoping for radiant floors throughout the house, and a gray water cistern under the ground to conserve the water during the drought season, and use that water for the shrubs, trees, flowers ect. If they do not have the radiants floors and cistern, the cabin will still be a beautiful home for one very lucky winner.

Hi All just read the new weekend blogs.
So good to hear from Ms cabincraver, thank God you are back home, been praying for you! Hope you continue to get better~ rest well!

Blognbob: NO: I have never heard of a "geoduck". I guess that animal is a northern resident! What in the world is it? I'll look it up so I can see a picture: but you got my attention again. Tell us about it.
Now Erin says she sees turkeys and fireflys in her northern woods. I wonder why you don't? Seems odd doesn't it? you guys are probably from different parts of the north though...
I'm sorry to say it but (Erin wasn't those diamond ~firefly~ rings we had so much fun glowing in the dark as a kid..) I have to admit it when my daughter was younger I taught her the diamond ring trick! She didn't enjoy as much as I did! She apparently figured out earlier than I did it's bug guts a glowing! We have most of those animals here in ky as well.
Ok blognbob: Erin and I want to know what part of the north are you from? So we can figure out the mystery of why she sees them and you don't.

And Jan from Az you are a lucky lady not having mosquitoes to bite and put itchy big sores all over you. They are a big problem in my area of ky. Some days we can't even go outside for them practally eating you alive even with bug sprays on!
Everyone is right! There most definitely are not any windows in the master bedroom side of the house and there was a single door in the mbr wall, cut out over the garage to access the decking, maybe that will be a full glass door. That would be nice in my opinion. Let in some natural light! The fan windows possibly could be cut out & added later but it just don't look like there is enough room for them to me! I agree Explanations would be nice from those in charge of the diy cabin. But as I remember the fan windows were not an option for voting and at first just an idea! But as far as I could tell for whomever was wanting to know if the cabincam was or wasn't up to date. It appeared to be right on to me. We visited the cabin this weekend. I looked at the cabincam Sunday morning and it looked exactly the same as I saw in person. So I would say it's real time info. As for the slideshows. I did see the slideshow friday night and the cement truck was on the cabincam friday afternoon. Well I'll go for now my 3 year old is getting bored with me not playing with him. Bye blogging friends for now. Have a beautiful day! We'll play later ok! BYE!!!!

BlognBob. Wow, Geoduck, live and learn. Pease don't get me on exotic food. I am a bit like Andrew Zimmern on that. Talking of Flying Fish have you ever eaten flying fish? We used to pick them up of the deck of sailboats we rented in the Greek islands. A little flour and herb seasoning then straight into the fry pan for a minute or so. Delicious with a few wedges of lemon or lime, some coarse bread and a glass of retsina (pine resin wine). Easiest fishing I ever did. Just sunbathe and wait for them to land on the deck. Of course there was the occasional human-fish interaction if one didn't put a towel or something up as a screen. That was one way to indentify the newbies on boats - fish strike.

Hello one and all,

Let's hope April brings some nice weather to TN and the rest of us in the Southeast...it has been COLD here!

I agree about the outdoor speakers- now is the time to install them, rather than later. Music is a blessing.

I also agree that it is quite difficult to tell the best match of the roofing material to the log stain, so I am hoping for the best when voting.

Keep up the good work, DIY!

BLOGNBOB!!!! oOOOOOHH!!!!!!! GROSS!!! GEODUCKS....... I'm glad we don't have them... WHAT ARE THOSE THINGS?????? GIANT SNAILS!!!!!!!! Those videos are wild!!!!! Looks like fun hunting them though! I love that show, dirty jobs! That video just about made me puke, really!!!! As a child I thought chicken and pig cleaning was nasty! Now that looks bad !!!!! But bad looking things u