Whish was able to make it to the Open house tomorrow. I'm here California in HEAT 100+ here for last two days & will be for the next 2 or 3..
we got to 106* yesterday. wish was back their.
Looks like the cabin got some rain yesterday. But looks GOOD Keep up the good work....

AHMED:
I'm going to be in the Dalton, GA area May 28th thru June 3rd....Will the Blog Cabin be available to the public for visiting/viewing during that time? I would love to visit the area since I will be so close....I don't know when I'll make it back to that area...Unless I win the Blog Cabin...THEN I will be there FOREVER!Ahmed Hassan: Hey the cabin is here and not going anywhere it wont be open to the public but you can call the folks at Lakefront Estates

I like "Cherokee Gables" for a name, although it is hard to tell if it may have 11 or 12 gables. Also I think the land was part of the Cherokee Nation at one time before the Trail of Tears.

Wish I could be there - will it be televised? Has the list of names been developed yet? I still like the surprise of the name Lake House - the surprise is when you see how magnificient the Lake House is. Granted the name doesn't tell the story - I like it because its a tease & lets the house tell the story. Or rather the life in the Lake House tells the story! I'm looking forward to seeing some pictures on the website of the open house at least!! Please?!?!?!
Ahmed Hassan: I'm really not sure whether we'll be shooting any of the open house for the show or if it's just for the Lakefront Estates development and all that are in attendance.

Blog Cabin Names:

"Watts Happyn'n Cabin"

"Tennessee Timber Lodge"

"Tennessee Timber Retreat"

"Tennessee Tavern"
Ahmed Hassan: Thanks for the name suggestions, I have a feeling that this whole deciding on a name is turning out to be a whole lot more complicated than first thought!

"Watts Happen'n Cabn'n" Ahmed Hassan: Gotcha!

I'm so excited! I'm gonna get to come to open house tomorrow. So watch out for bc ocd overload! Just joking guys, I'll be nice. You all will be busy busy bees anyhow. I'll be too busy staring at the star of blog cabin series...

The house! Gotcha you guys!

p.s. I hope the Amy's will be there that's how I finally got my husband to bring me... I told him the guys A. J. C. and S would be there. He said he wants a picture of him with one Amy on each arm. (LOL) and I said I'll get my buddies Ahmed and Jason or Chris and Simon to pose with me one on each of my arms..(wink) ~~ Just joking guys. I do look forward to coming and seeing everything in person. Meeting you. Exciting! This place is such a dream come true for whoever is blessed to be the winner! Safe travels and I'll be long winded Monday blogging buddies.Ahmed Hassan:HeyI dont know if you want to tell your hubby or not but None of the Amy's (Devers, Wynn Pastor, or Mathews )is going to be present, Just us fellas, Myself, Jason, Chris and a clean face Simon. If this information is going to change your husbands mind though let's not tell him:)

Thank You for posting the blogs Ahmed. Wish I could come see you and the big beautiful log home. Have fun okay!Ahmed Hassan: Maybe next time:) you never know!!!

I'll see everyone there! It's supposed to be cool-- only about 70 with storms off and on-- so I hope Lakefront Estates has tents. I haven't been home to watch anything today, as Dayton had their annual Strawberry Festival, and I took Katie. We are filled up with pizza, fresh lemonade, and strawberry shortcakes. I also had some birch beer (sort of like root beer for those of you who don't know). I haven't been able to get birch beer since moving from Connecticut. Ahhhh-- that tasted good!!!

BTW-- since it's supposed to be cool tomorrow-- I'll probably have my fuschia colored sweat jacket on too. And, more than likely, my navy blue backpack to hold rain gear and camera. Ahmed Hassan: We'll see you and your colorfulself tomorrow then!

Carrie Miracle, we all want to hear your long winded blogging Monday....I know I will enjoy it to the fullest!...We want ALL the details..and Carrie as you get long winded blogging to us on Monday about the open house, I will take a breathe when you get tired :-) just to help you out in getting all the details out to us. :-) We wait with great expectance to get this report from you. Remember we are ALL suffering with this Blog Cabin OCD :-) and are counting on you and Helen for every single detail. I can't wait, but dissapointed that I cannot be there.:-( I will be there in spirit. We wish you and everyone else safe driving, and a wonderful time with Ahmed, drinking lemonade,. Boy do I wish I could be there. (boo hoo) :-(

Ahmed - we're all hoping you have great weather & a fun time tomorrow showing off this beautiful home so many have put their hearts into. Thanks sooooo much for all your time keeping us posted on everything, it is appreciated by many. The rest of my blog is for some of the comments made by other bloggers about handicap accessibility so take a break and get ready for tomorrow, we'll be there in spirit!

Handicap Accessibility - after reading some of the later posts on Watson's blog for a name there were comments about wheelchair accessibility I'd like to address. First of all, I never planned to be in a chair, I was healthy, rarely saw a Dr. and was very active outside so it came as a shock to me less then 5 years ago. Parents can carry minor children but what happens when they get too heavy to carry up steps? Some of you don't want any type of ramp so what happens if one of your parents or friends or neighbors winds up in a chair? Do you tell your Mom she can't come over because she can no longer walk? Chair lifts were mentioned which would be useless for me since I can't walk, I'd need a wheelchair to get into the basement then take a lift to the main floor where I'd need a 2nd chair to move around. To get to the 2nd floor I'd need to ride another lift and would also need a 3rd chair there when I finally got there. Would you like to stay on one floor if everyone else is down in the man-cave watching a movie or had kids upstairs you wanted to tuck in and read a book to at night? Another blogger said too leave it up to the owner because the winner might not want a ramp into the house - I can take a hint when I'm not invited. Just because I'm in a chair doesn't mean I'm not a nice person you wouldn't want as a friend, you'd be surprised at how many wonderful friends I have, our home is always full of company, is yours? What would you do if your best friend was in a horrible accident or got sick and needed a ramp to visit you, would you say your sorry but a ramp ruined the looks of your home so you didn't want it there or had it removed (that was mentioned). All I'm asking is that those of you who don't need accessibility to be a little more understanding to those of us who do. Showing my horses 5 years ago I never imagined that one day my health would put me in a chair, it turned my entire life around and it's hard enough living with the pain everyday but to know there are people who would never want me to visit really hurts more than any pain I suffer. I'm not angry, actually I can only hope I've opened your eyes a tiny bit that life doesn't always turn out the way we expect it to. The portable ramps is a possibility but most are too heavy to set up by ourselves, only go so high, it still limits us and most people in chairs try to do everything ourselves, we're usually a determined bunch. All I ask is that those opposed to making the home handicap accessible to please think what you'd say to your mate, your child, your parents, friends, neighbors, etc. that you didn't want a ramp or elevator or requested they be removed because it didn't look pretty with your decor. As for saying we voted for a 2 story, I've been in many 2 story homes that I got around easily and it is much cheaper to do it while building then afterwards. Sorry if I hurt anyone's feeling but mine were hurt too and I can only hope I may have changed one opinion and to those that have asked for accessibility even though they didn't need it......thank you from the bottom of my heart, Misty

Hey Ahmed
Thought I would check to see if my blog came through because it had said I made too many comments already. ( not me!) ha ha.. maybe I do sometimes! But it did come through and you commented thank you. So the Amy's won't be there! My hubby will be so heart broken.
( really) He went to wash his truck for those pretty girls. I'll let you break it to him tomorrow, ok. It's our secret ! SHHH! That's a shame! I wanted to meet Wynn more than him. I have known and admired her via tv since Trading Spaces. She's what I call a real woman! Pretty and hard working! A great role model for young girls. But hey I think I got a good deal. I get to see you guys and our big beautiful blog home. And thank heavens Simon has a clean face now. (Wow) I really didn't think he would shave it! I guess it got too hot! But how will I ever tell them two apart now?Ahmed Hassan: I'm already confused! I called him Chris all day today(he's used to it!)

Ahmed I admire you and the whole crew so much!! But I'm stuck here in Maine and am going to miss all the excitment of metting you all, and seeing the Rainbows End or Hearthstone Cabin. (had to do that). You can bet I'd have been there if I could still drive-Not enough vision. I want you to tell your family thank you for bearing all this time with you so over worked. Bonnie
Ahmed Hassan: Thanks Bonnie, we'll have to carry on without you then this time, I personally like "Rainbows end"

Ahmed and Crew,

I do wish I could attend the open house tomorrow. Everything is looking so great!
I, like many others, will be there in spirit!
Enjoy the day!
Gail

Ahmed,
I'm out of the loop, its been a while since I read the blog. Nice to see the porch swing. At least I hope it's there. The video stopped before I could see the whole clip.
I want to suggest BULL NOSE corner-bead. The roundness of it will compliment the round logs. this may be too late, if they are already talking paint. It would look nice.
I've been busy with Finals in school and haven't been blogging much lately but yes were currently discussing paint options for now but I think that the bullnose corner bead sounds good. I'm not sure what Simon and chris have in mind but will ask them tomorrow

Misty, I read your blog, and I cannot agree with you more. Thank you for sharing your side, as everyone needs to hear what it is to be disable. The challenges are endless! I also wanted to tell you Misty that if we were neighbors, you would be more than welcomed in my home.I am sure that all your friends call themseleves blessed to have a friend as yourself.....I know I would. :-) Remember Misty...there are houses.....and then there are homes. You are a beautiful person with a big heart of compassion and encouragement....Don't ever let that go. Keep looking Up! See you on the chat o.k......Hope you have a wonderful Day! :-)

Hi Misty! :-)

Google this..
www.thefemaleview.com/molly-an-amazing-pony/

I thought you would enjoy a happy ending story!
:-) Molly is very special...
Have a great day!

Hey Helen & Carrie and all bloggers going to the opening, Be sure and wave to us from the porch at 11:51 - 11:57 if you get there early so we can see ya on the cabin cam. Helen, we'll be looking for your pink top with Brandon's angel pin and Carrie will be the one dragging her Hubby in when he finds out none of the Amy's will be there. Ahmed, wave to your bloggin family and your 3 children and wife who must be missing you a lot. Maybe there will be a surprize for the one that can tell which twin is Simon and which one is Chris, ha, ha. Like everyone else, we wish we could be there, have a fun time and post as soon as you can, we'll be waiting to hear the news. Hopefully there will be an Alex Lemonade Stand there!

Good Luck & Great Health To ALL !!

Ahmed,
I really wish we could be there for the open house. I'll bet it is more beautiful in person than on the computer. There is nothing like spring-time in Tennessee. I remember as a little boy I used to go out this time of year an find wild flowers around the mountains. I used to love going out off the beaten path and find Jack-N-the pulpit's', Lady-slipper's (both white and pink) and Trillium's. Dogwood trees have a special place in my heart because it was one of my grandmothers favorites. Hope every one that is able to go has a wonderful time. I'll be dreaming about it

Mark and Debbie

All right already!! I wish it was Monday so I could get the scoop on the open house!!!

All right already!! I wish it was Monday so I could get the scoop on the open house!!!

Hi Ahmed and everyone! Open houes is today and I am stuck here in Phoenix sweating it out with 100+ temps. *sigh* I hope all goes well and you all have a wonderful time.
I can't wait to read all about it in the blogs!
Take care you guys and have fun. :o)

Hi ...........

Sunday - 11:00 a.m.

When I went out for the newpaper this morning at 7:00 a.m. - you could hear them hard at work for the OPEN HOUSE today. Yesterday when we drove over they were busy at the CABIN, film crew, Log Cabin folks and the Lakefront Estate people at the two houses they have built. This is a beautiful area and the views are really something - yes we are a little taken by the place.

All of us in the area received an invitations in the mail for todays function and their were advertisments in the news paper this week (local and Chattanooga). Yes they also talked about the DIY Log house that was being built.

By the time that we walk over the tents should be up and all the fun will have begun. We will all try and be the eyes and ears for everyone. Look forward to meeting everyone.

Retired in Tennessee ................

Sally

The cabin looks great! We built one ourselves in 2000 and love it. I'd do it again in a heartbeat, but the wife, not so much (she hates to pack and move). I own a custom cabinet shop and enjoy seeing all the cool features in your homes. I hope you guys continue to do these each year. Keep up the good work! Bob

Hi all! Ok, it's 1:00 Sunday and raining! But, from the looks of the weather forecast, it's only a short storm, and should be over in about 15 min or so. I'm putting on make-up, and packing brownies. As soon as it stops raining, I'm going across the street. I'll take notes!
Love, Helen

Ahmed...
Just know you and rest of the team will have a grand time today! Looking forward to your comments about meeting a few of the Elders and (in)famous bc ocd off-site building team members.

And... since this will be held for review on this the last day to submit a name .... here are mine:

1.CATCH OF THE DAY RETREAT

2. Infinite Possibilities Refuge (on Watts Barr Lake)

AND....To all Attending the fabulous peek this weekend: I'm with you all in spirit so, for all us us thinking of you all .... We are anxious to hear your 'reports'! ...Oh, and, please watch out for sunburn, esp. on that newly uncovered face (you know of whom I speak! ---smile----)

We are all there in spirit! What a gorgeous place!!

BlognBob - great idea to name the cabin "Cabincraver's Dream" I love it! Just as I love the idea of getting cabincraver a laptop so she can blog while in bed. I hope we can put this together for her.

Carrie and Helen Miko hope you both had a wonderful time at the Open House and can't wait to hear all about it tomorrow. Hope the weather was better than here in CT and MA - we had rain. Be sure to tell us all about it!!!

Carrie like you I am also a big Wynn fan and you are so right she is such a great role model for young women. Like you I have been a big fan since she joined Trading Spaces and was having "Wynn" withdrawal symptoms now that she is no longer on the show.

Helen - know about Birch Beer - maybe it is a New England thing since you can find it every where here. Never thing about whether other parts of the country enjoy the same drinks or foods that we do in New England. When my sister was in the Midwest she missed white american cheese - they favor yellow amercian cheese - so you never know.

Hope all had a wonderful weekend and that you all have great plans for Memorial Day!!!

Cabincraver and Erika prayers are with you both. Hope all goes well with the surgery. Erika keep us up to date. And if you are reading this for you mom - we need to get in touch with you so read the blogs from the last page.

Take care all!

Hi …..

We walked over in the rain (just a light drizzle) and joined in the fun. The deer were jumping the fence and the Canadian Geese with their young ones could be seen throughout the property. First person we met was Ahmed, who was on his way back to the Cabin for more filming. A lot of people came for the open house - unfortunately they were still filming from this morning. While we were standing at the top of the hill talking we did meet Carrie and family who had driven down from their place in Kentucky (Hi Carrie - good to meet you and your family and hope that you had a nice trip home). Since it was still raining we walked back home – at least we did get our exercise for the day. Will drive over later in the day and hope that it has stopped raining then and visit all who are at the Cabin.

When we decided to take a ride back over for a visit with the Cabin people the sun had come out and it had turned into a beautiful afternoon. After all the comments on the BLOG about the Open House and the advertisements in the new paper we were really looking forward to meeting and talking with the people about the Log Cabin. We had met the fellows that were actually building the Cabin on our walks and boat rides and now we were going to get a chance to talk about it.

5:15 p.m.
Sorry - we did drive over later in the afternoon ……… They were still filming …….. When we returned home we decided to take the boat out for a ride ……. They were still filming …….. We went home asked a few neighbors if they would like to go for a boat ride …….. They were still filming – 6:30 p.m. ……….

So I guess that we have nothing to report. Yes their have been some changes but nothing to write about. We will make a trip over later this week when no one is their – then we will make a report back.

Disappointed in Tennessee ………………

Sally

hi, hope the luckie ones able to go to the open house had a good time , soooo give it up i want lots of info.
im personally not too crazy about the front steps. but what ever
misty, im sure this is very dissapointing for you and prob many others. so far my health has been good but my husband has developed some issues with his knees, and going down stairs is brutal for him. i voted for an unpopular single leval design. because we live in a 2 story home now. roofing, cleaning out gutters huge issues . so we deceided many yrs ago we would never buy another 2 story home.
blessings to cabincraver and erika.
oh and again im going with the table just because cherry wood is sooo pretty.

Hi all! I went to the Open House today. I saw Ahmed, the twins, and Jason from DIY-- I also saw Lisa from Lakefront Estates too. I caught up with Carrie, but missed Sally. Carrie said she met her though. Carrie and her family are as nice in person, as they are on here. I was not able to see the inside of the Blog home, as they were filming at the time. Carrie was going to try to hang around until they finished at 5 or so, so they could see the inside. I hope they were able to see the inside-- I'm just across the road-- but, they drove 3 1/2 hours to see it. I do have to say that now that I see the front of the house up close-- it is very pretty and classy looking. What you really don't see in the pictures on the cam is that they have a walkway out from the front door before the steps come down from either side. It makes a BIG difference to see it in person like that. It certainly changed my mind. I did take the boat tour to see the back of the blog home from the lake-- and it is breathtaking to see it. Pictures just don't do it justice. I just hope that they make a big turn around to get into the garage on the side. If it were me, I could see me coming in late one night and taking out one of the posts. LOL
It was really great to see everyone, and yes-- I did bring some brownies for the guys-- and saved a few for Carrie too. I did promise after all.Ahmed Hassan: Thanks Helen,We all enjoyed the brownies. I'm starting to get a little spoiled and have no problem with it!
I'll blog a new entry in the morn about the Open House, I've gotta get some sleep so I can do it again tomorrow. Today was 8:30am till 8:30pm (I'm whooped!) Goodnight!

Hi Everyone,
I hope all that went to the open house had the best of time . And I hope you will be willing to share with us all the wonderful things that we are unable to see here at home.

Misty and Rich,
I agree with you completely about accessibility. My wife became disabled from her seizures about 5 years ago. And while she doesn't need a wheelchair fulltime she does have her days and moments.
As a matter of fact, today was one of those days. I had to carry my wife into the house after church after she went into seizures there during our church meetings.
While we do have an earthen ramp built at home, by the time we had gotten the wheelchair out, then up through the grass and into the door, while at the same time trying to corral or watch my little girl born with downs syndrome . And keeping her from running off. Well, it was just easier to pick up my wife and fireman carry her in. I am so thankful we didn't have a so many steps to contend with.
This was especially fun after carrying her that way for over 200 yards just beforehand at church with a full suit and tie in 80 degree heat. A wood or paved ramp would have been a lifesaver today!
These things can and will happen to us or someone very close to us at any particular time in our lives. Best take advantage of a good thing now !

As for the ramp. When Ahmed commits to something I believe him to be a man of his word !

I have to admit, I am almost as excited for tomorrows blog as some have been anticipating todays open house.

Hi Watson, Ahmed, Everyone!

How did the opening go? Did you have a big crowd?? I checked out the cabin cam thinking it might have caught someone going or coming, but no luck! Was everyone able to get into the cabin? I know there has been a lot of discussion about accessibility on the blog....I'm one that's not in love with all those stairs. I saw where someone mentioned portable ramps on the left side porch were I was hopeing for some shallow stairs. Anyway when I saw the mention of the ramps I had a thought...it put me in mind of the ramps on moving vans or box trucks. You know how the ramps tuck in under the bed of the truck. Could you tuck a similar ramp up under the porch? Perhaps we can have accessibility readily available when needed??? Just a thought.

With all the cameras that must have been around today for the open house, I hope ya took a lot of pictures to creat another slide show for those of us who couldn't come! Please!!!

This is the last day to submit name suggestions for that wonderful house so I've got just a few more:)

Haven Ho! (as in Land Ho!)
Prime Property
Heaven's Holler
Heaven Sent
Welcome Home

So, I think that's all!

My name suggestion is "Beyond the Lake". This is a beautiful place. Have fun. Wish I could be there, but I am in Los Angeles. Rather be in Tennessee. Fran

I am new to this show and Blog Cabin so I do not know much about the Cabin. Where can I READ more info about its location, size, etc...
Looks like it is in Tennessee! That is great.
Tennessee has much to offer!
When I think of Tennessee I think of Country, Homefolks, Southern Hospitality, and Good down home cookin, not to mention Family.
So I am thinking a good name for this Cabin would possibly be one of these....
Cabin Creek ~ ~ ~ Autumn Sunset ~ ~ ~ Hickory House ~ ~ ~ Scarlett Canyon ~ ~ ~ Dogwood Estates ~ ~ ~ Whispering Leaves ~ ~ ~ Sanctuary ~ ~ ~ Southern Trails

Just to name a few!
Good luck to everyone!

Lake Log Lodge.

When will the open house be shown on TV?

"Lake Hearth"

Good Morning Ahmed and everyone at the Blog Cabin,

The only way to come up with the perfect name for the Blog Cabin is to try to imagine what you are feeling when you are there. (I have a few favorite "names" that I have come up with, I just can't narrow it down to one!)

Close your eyes and imagine this: On a beautiful clear evening you'r sitting on the back deck with your feet up in the adirondack chair with a hot cup of coffee in hand. Behind you there's a fire crackling in the fireplace. The breeze is blowing, the water is splashing from the fish jumping to eat bugs, and nighttime nature is awakening. It is soooo relaxing, quiet, and peaceful, and there is absolutely no place like home at this "Tennessee Treasure" that has such "Sweet Southern Serenity" it feels like you're in a "Heavenly Hideaway".

I know that was a lot but I had to GET you there to feel where I was coming from. Hope everyone likes them!! >

Ahmed, Hope you get some good needed rest. I am sure you are tired after a full day greeting people and answering questions...Bless you.... hoping you will post some photos of the open house so that we can all enjoy seeing what we missed. :-( I am also hoping that there will be a shot of you and Helen and Carrie. Also we cannot forget the Shaven Face! we MUST see that! This LOG HOME is beautiful and gets better with each day. Ahmed, my favorite part will be the landscaping which I know is your also your cup of tea so to speak. Those rocks will add so much beauty.
So glad to hear that everyone had a good time at open house. Thanks Sally and Helen for all the report. Helen....did anyone put a lemonade stand out? Happy Day Everyone!

How about "Lakeview Layabout" for the cabin name. Suits the scene.

Please, don't put anymore money into that front porch!?!

Dear Sirs,
Something you blog cabin guys really need to re-look over and think about...the entrance...that short, boxy little front porch is really weird looking, and takes away and does not add to the overall beauty of the blog home?
That thing is tiny!

All I can say is BEAUTIFUL. I love the blog cabin for 2008. It is going to be amazing. I cant wait to see it finished. I know it will be awhile. But you guys are doing an amazing job. It's nice to see everyone again.Last years blog cabin was beautiful also.I was so wrapped up in the whole blogging that it was almost addictive.I hope this years will be the same. I have voted on a few things. Last year i was only able to catch the end of the whole thing. You guys are all amazing.Have fun with the cabin I know you will.

Anxious to hear more about the Open House but I will give an opinion regarding the cherry bedside table or bookshelf. I'm sure either (both) will be wonderful additions. There is nothing better than a hand built piece of furniture rather than all we get from "other" countries. My favorite wood is cherry and even tho Tulip Poplar is the Tenn. state tree I have to go with the table. There is a simple elegance that is so inviting and, yes, a future heirloom for passing on to your children or grands. I'm pulling for the table even tho I'm sure the bookshelf will be a great and useful piece as well. Can't beat cherry wood with a natural finish!!!!

I must say I'm a little disappointed in how the front view is turning out. It looks more like a wooden box perched on some rocks! I was hoping you guys would fill in with some dirt to raise ground level and match the original plan. Maybe with some creative landscaping to break up some of the rock it will look better. All in all it will still be a great cabin for some lucky family.
Have a great open house!

I hope you guys had a great get together the other day! I got to go to two university graduations and then the two graduates got married the next day. A very nice and interesting Lakota ceremony. Neither are Lakota, but they both majored in Native American Studies and chose their professor to officiate. Very cool. Makes me rethink this cabin naming. And it is fun to vote on a name!

I'm also excited to vote on a host made feature. The fence looks nice but I'd love a raised garden. Mine would probably have flowers instead of veggies. ;-) It is difficult to decide what I would like Chris and Simon to make. I would get a lot of use out of that bookcase though.

Keep up the great work. I'm off to see if anyone posted a vlog or pics on that Open House. ~Betty~

Yes, Becca, you are right in your description of Tennessee, esp the mountains. We have everything from flatlands (west), to rolling (middle where I grew up) and mountainous (east) where we now live. It is a lovely state and Watts Bar Lake(the Blog Cabin location) in Spring City, TN is just lovely and in the eastern part of the state. Google it and you'll see you are near many nice places. I think the front of the BBLH is going to be gorgeous. Why? Because Ahmed has a marvelous plan for landscaping and I'm not at all concerned. Nor am I concerned about the front entrance. We have not seen the front as 3 dimensional yet and I feel that it looks rather different up close and personal than in the 1 dimensional photos. Great job guys and gals of DIY. We're pulling for you cause we're all in this together!!!

Congrats to the six Bloggers who submitted the names that will be voted upon for the cabin!

1. S. Mallow (May 3 @ 4:44pm)

2. Dave Dalton (May 5 @ 12:13 AM)

3. Adeana (May 5 @ 10:32 AM)

4. Art ( May 4 @ 2:03 AM)

5. Wendy (May 12 @ 12:03 AM)

6. Lynne (May 5 @ 1:17PM)

Its amazing how 5 of the 6 names selected were submitted within the first few days! You really knew what the judges were looking for in a name from the get-go! Congratulations to you all and to all who entered .... It could not have been an easy task to narrow the names down to only six with so many wonderful suggestions throughout the time alloted for entries, which ended yesterday!

Hi Fellow Bloggers

I keep watch for Carrie Miracle post but I guess she is trying to recover from the trip. I like many others wish I could have made the trip to see very one and the log home. Thanks Sally, Helen and Ahmed for your blogs so glad you guys got to see. I am suffering from OCD Log Cabin as Heading South said and it is getting worst!

One thing is really bothering me and I do not like or post negative posts but here goes one. The front of the Log Home to me is just not right. I do not like how high the front is from the ground.Porch and steps look out of scale with the rest of the house. It looks like it is a temporary fix and maybe it is but I just don't think so.

Ahmed, I know you can do great things with the landscape but I just do not know if it is ever going to flow with the home being so high in the front. I just thought like I said there would be dirt filled in up at least half of the stone and then sloping off.

Ahmed please help me visualize something other than what I am seeing.

Forgive me this was not a happy blog for me.

Baskets of Blessings & Happy Blogging
Joyce

A note to Misty and Rich

I was saddened to read that some of the comments have hurt you. Sometimes, it is not the lack of love (compassion) that drives a person to disregard the needs of others, but it is their overwhelming FEAR that they hold that they may someday be faced with a similar situation. Not that I believe anyone should live their life in dread of all the "what ifs", I just truly believe it is those 'what ifs' that create the Fear that leads many into reactions and comments about people, places and even things that can be so hurtful.

I am grateful for your courage to share your experience with us and for your honesty in talking about how a tick bite changed your life so dramatically. I know the big beautiful log home has a long way to go to meet the needs of those with mobility and other use issues, but, please remember, that there are many, many in this group that continually push the envelope with questions and good research and resources for inclusion of items to make living easy for all. (A. Muse, Clive, KateByTheLake, Carrie Miracle, BlognBob, Erin, Heading South, Kim Mc, and you and Rich,to name but a few!)

And on that thought, in case you missed it among the 600+ comments in the last go-round: Ahmed responded to a post from Keight (who is one of those outstanding pushers for sure!) and said he is still planning to meet with Ted to talk about installing a ramp on the Mud Room Side of the Front of the House. I hope that information offers you some encouragement today!

Your body may have become weak, but you, Misty (and your husband, Rich), as well as CabinCraver 2008, and Heading South, and all the others who have shared their stories of triumph and hope in the face of overwhelming illnesses are very strong, indeed...anyone who wouldn't want to have you in their homes is missing out .... Always remember, it is their loss, not yours!

Just got done voting and checked the results and nothing there. Too soon or isn't it time yet.liked the choices. Who had a hand in choseing the name? Thanks and keep up the good work.

First off I just want you all to know I missed those of you who couldn't come and knew you would be there with me in spirit. I hope they have a good vlog or photo slide for us bloggers in mind today, I noticed the comment from Ahmed above that he would have a new blog entry for us today!

Blognbob, I pray your precious wife will feel better soon. What a knight in shining armour(loving spirit) you are for her, carrying her over the threshhold in sickness and in health and being there for her and your baby girl. It is hard for you I'm sure. I am praying for you.

Well, here's part of my tale of the Open house!

As you all know something happened to us, We got a later start than we had originally said we would leave, plus it was raining our my parade. So I was worried, and wondered should I drag the kids through the rain & mud or not? We let the time get by and we would have to make a couple of pit stops along the way as families always do on a road trip to anywhere. If you want to know the details of my blog adventure, travelling there. I will be happy to write more to you about it later.
But.......???? :)

I know you all are more interested in the actual blog home adventures and the what, where, why and how of things in blog world.

And yes people, I was breathing in, and out the whole way there. ~ very frustratively, If thats a word. But yet, I felt very calm going there. Because I knew I would get to see things in person. Yes, I thought I would miss out on all the goodies.. Like the Eating, music, filling out an entrance for gift registration slip. etc. I want something you know! But we got there finally 1 & 1/2 hours later 2:30ish later than we planned and Did I tell you 1 & 1/2 hours past the grand opening. RRRRRRR!
But that was ok the drive was beautiful even with the rain and I saw some very interesting things along the way. And I was with my most precious, family. I'll tell you if you want to know those details!

Upon arrival, we got there, Finally! YES!!!!!!!!
breath in breath out...
We pulled up to the entrance gate and here was this sweet smiling, blonde lady, Lisa,

Hi Lisa,
she's one of us, but she works there, she recognized my name, Gosh. I feel like a celebrity and she is just as excited about the blog cabin as I am. She tells us to fill out a paper. And hands us a blue tote bag. I'm gonna use it for the diaper bag. It's just the right size for it! She says the meet and greet and food and music were at lot #55. I was thinking at the time. We can't drive 55, the song, I couldn't get here fast enough and barely got here, The whole way here! I felt like it was Christmas night and you just can't wait to open the gifts.

Hubby Chris, my babies Christen and Carter! Thank yo so much for my Mother's day gift, I love you so much. I loved it! Had fun!

I kept singing the same song over and over in my head: I'm so excited! I just can't hide it! song. another story) if you want to know I'll tell you later, now I know, I'm to get on with the rest of the story, with the gift bag from Lakefront, it had Lakefront labeling on the front, inside the bag it has an inkpen, a waterbottle with lakefront on it also & brochure book about the properties and a map and price listing for the properties. She said they are filming today, didn't know how the tour of blog cabin would go and if we could even go in. We could watch from the street until they quit filming. Then maybe we could go in.

So forget the other stuff to do for now. I am really exc.... now and can't h. it. I hope I can make conversation with everyone. I'm not the greatest at it! I'm a drifting excited thinker and an observer so I'm easily distracted. Drives my poor hubby crazy and makes some poeple think I'm crazy! (LIKE mY hubby) We drive straight to the cabin. It definitely is in no way as busy as I thought it would be. The rain kept people away looks like. I see a river media truck to the right of the gazebo and a van, some people, some watchers and others are workers. I hear someone who sounds like, I think it's ahmed. No, It wasn't him, but he has the same accent. I see some of the little four wheeler carts. Yes I think thats the one Diresta nearly took out the trees with. LOL(so funny that video was!) We get out of the vehicle and as soon as my foot touches the blog cabins hallowed ground. You know it would start to rain! We walk up to the bc driveway. And people start scurrying around the garage. Hey! it's a camera man ! So cool! I'm really getting excited now .... ~~~in ~~~out and ohhh! Chris & Simon pop out. Cool, I hope they are coming up the hill. Well that didn't last long hi and bye. Nope! They didn't even look up here! But hey they have camera time going on! They are hiding in them there man caves without me! :( At least I saw them! Yeah! It is so beautiful here and the trees shade it gorgeously! Tears are swelling up in my eyes, I'm so excited! I can't believe I'm here! I take several big breaths. ~~~~ I want to be down there, NOW! breath in breath out~~I smell the lake water and the woodsy smell is calming me , you know that smell when you are at a nice state park. I love that scent so! There is a mini Barna Log home both sitting to the right and a nice sponsor motioning us over, Can't remember his name, sorry, if you read this blog. I get a nice book and brochure from them about these works of arts cabins and have a great conversation with them in the rain. About how much has went into the cabin and that the appliances have arrived! In total package property and home it looks like it might be appraised around 700,000 to 800,000 he thinks, when our blogging home is finished now that will be alot of taxes to consider coming up with to pay if you win.

While waiting in the rain for the filming to rap for apx 45 min. I'm thinking. The Barna people are nice, they were frustrated they wanted to show the house more, if you are going to build a log cabin. They are nice and really want to have a nice home for you. Consider them for it. Most of the stuff we talked about you know already from info supplied through Lisa, Keight, Amuse, Clive and etc. They said this home is top of the line, high dollar stuff going in. As we all knew it was.. And the reps thought the blog builders are doing a great job. We voted for it! What we vote, we get! They asked me what I thought about the home and you all know I think alot. But ultimately I told him It was just the most beautiful home I have ever seen and it is my dream home. I want one really bad hopefully I win this one! Or one of you do that will let me see it again later! Because it would be a really long time before and if I could ever build a home like that! I really apprecaite it! Then he mentioned the brownies Helen had dropped off, I missed her by a few minutes! Darn it!
While I was talking to the Barna reps under their mini cabin booth. Trying to keep dry. I saw this nice lady coming toward us walking in the rain, in a rain coat and when she got to the Barna pit. She started talking to the reps, in what I knew was blog talk, questions. Yes! she was really a blogger and I instinctively knew who it was. When she finished talking, I found ..... It was

Sally, I was very excited to meet one of our bloggers in person. She is a friendly and sweet person. Liked her from the first view I got of her walking toward us with that beautiful smile she had!
Sally, It was so nice to see you in person!

Bloggers
It was a frustrating day for the open house viewers and the Lakefront and Barna reps and film and diy filming crews. Alot of waiting and interruptions and frustrations all around. Schedules conflicting once again. But that was ok this subdvision should be a "state park". REALLY! It's so gorgeous! I could have slept on the wet ground all night and been happy as could be. Alot of people didn't get to go into the cabin. It was frustrating for everyone. I also met a family (originated) from Corbin Ky ~~~HI guys my hubby enjoyed talking to the older gentleman with you and then we decided ok it's time to drive to lot #55 the filming would not be done for a while.

We go to the house they have round tables with white table clothes set up in the garage of this house. It had great big casement windows in there the brightest garage I ever saw. Nice. I'll think I'll take that trick and apply it to my dream home when one comes about!
And the Buffet was sitting to the left of the driveway under a little white tent. We have a choice of mini subs, or 1/2 sandwiches. Fruit some brownies and cookies. Alright says hubby and daughter now we are talking, Butterfly shrimp and cocktail sauce. A choice of tea, lemonade, and punch. Or cold bottled waters.
I sit down and here comes Lisa, sweet lady, talking, We are all listening to the Shoe Shakers band, they play a very nice selection, good singer and conversating with the guest and they play a good variety of songs for all the age differnces.. there. My son enjoyed them he got up and done a little dancing. And here comes someone from the house into the garage.
She has a pink shirt w/angel on it. Could it be, ....?

Yes! I finally get to meet our Helen, Get this we both have red hair and freckles, She says I got something for you and pulls me out a brownie and gives my hubby and kids one also and Yes they are so good! YUMMMy! She should sell those puppies, We talked for a while, She is so easy to talk to and very friendly she will be a great neighbor for the winner and I hope they have kids for her Katie. Katie is shy but beautiful with dark hair, she looks like her momma to me! While we were talking some one comes down the hill, I hear them saying I had to come back for more sweets. So this person has a sweet tooth and guess who it was ......

That's right!

It's Ahmed!
He is just the sweetest, is it possible for sweetness to go right down to the bone? I think it is, He obviously knew Helen, but what shocked me is... That he walked right up to me, like I was an old friend and said hello there " Lady get up and give me a hug!" I didn't turn it down, No way would I turn a hug down from him. He is really as nice as he seems to be! He said they were working today, trying to meet those hectic schedules, Cameron has to get off for fly home in a couple and he grabbed a few sweets and off he was! I was wanting that personal tour, I dreamed of. He told me when they would get off! Helen and I parted our ways shortly after that as she took the boat ride to see the back of blog cabin, she will fill us in on that. I wanted to go but I didn't go I was afraid my son would get scared, and spoil the fun for those who wanted to ride the lake. He's used to an old run about boat, not a pontoon. And I just wasn't sure how he would react. We said goodbyes. We went to look at the house here on lot 55. very nice, That mastershower in there is to DIE for! And the view! WOW! The other had sold recently. Lucky homeowner! congrats...

Misty
and others about the access ramp,
I personally asked The Barna rep about one, expressed to them how many have asked about that we are worried for friends and family of the winner. And that we don't know who will win and this home needs to be ready for whatever lifestyle they have. The winner really might need one if they win. I told him to read the blogs and see how much people care about this issue. Anyone handicapped would not have been able to go down into the the house, even if it wasn't under construction! The house needs a ramp as least for the main level. That person would be stuck down in the basement until someone drags them up those stairs. They said that all of their homes can be easily adapted or built to any accessibility necessity to any homeowner's specific needs. That is great that they offer that for those who really need it and buy from them! But what about the fact that this house is different, it's already chosen for a winner to receive! The winner/owner will not be a buyer picking out a house they chose? It's kind of like the house picks the winner in a way isn't it?
This makes things different, like accessibility for everyone. Or at least make available an added on bonus to be done if the owners want it or not. And they should not have to pay for it.. Because peoples lives will be changing financially when they take ownership and become responsible for the home.

Ahmed said on May 16 to Keight, he would talk to Ted about the access ramp! Hopefully This ramp can be done for those who may need it! And hopefully one or the other will remember the importance of this ramp and make it part of the package plan if the family needs it or that they will personally supply it as part of the package when or if it's needed now or in the future!

I got more stories to tell about this adventure and it's good!
Got ??'s I'll try to answer if I can....

I just wanted to say that it takes more skill to build a raised bed garden than a fence...and
think how delicious home grown tomatoes are...
All the names we had to chose from are pretty
cool....I still like Herons Landing tho.Ahmed Hassan:I personally like the simplicity of the split rail the most but would be willing to do whatever project wins, the trellis is a sort of living column life a fat totem pole filled with plants. this would by far be the most difficult. The raised bed or beds would be sweet btu the cages around the top would be difficult to construct and keep easy to open for gardening. Beds also mean work for gardening as does the Living trellis the fence would simply look good and give something nice to look at up at the top of property

Misty, I never intended to offend anyone who might require special accommodations whether at present or sometime in the future. My home is wheelchair friendly from the front access to placement of light switches, etc. My main point here was that because this home is elevated far higher than the normal house, there might be better solutions such as a lift that would be safer and easier to use than a rather lengthy ramp. Ive built wheelchair ramps and they can be very dangerous if the incline to is too severe. With the layout of this house, the desired entry might be on the back or the garage side with access to the ground floor. Then a lift to the main living floor could make access to two of the floors fairly easy. With a ramp, it would require quite a structure to provide access to two levels, particularly if inclimate weather was considered.

Believe me, having had a parent in a wheelchair from the time I was 4 years old, I am accustomed to doing anything necessary to make life as easy as possible to assist in their mobility and give them a feeling of being a part of everything going on with the family in or out of the home.

DIY & Lakefront Estates- hope your open house was a success!

Misty: hope my post regarding voters and bloggers preferences on house design choice didn't upset you...I apologize if I did :). I was just trying to point out that this design was the least accommodating for those with disabilities and this is why all the access issues are popping up now. I strongly feel access issues should be addressed and accommodations should be included in the design wherever possible.

I am disabled but fortunate to not need a chair at this time (although there are days when one would be very helpful). My thoughts have always been that DIY is keeping access in mind but with all the stairs my hopes keep dwindling.

We tried to plan our home build with access in mind but the lay of the land totally changed things. My main floor is for total access to what I need on a daily basis with an open floor plan. The walk-out basement is mainly for guest rooms (when my kids visit mostly).

When building, due to drainage issues, we had to raise the house two feet. That little change added the need for stairs from the garage to the house and also stairs from the drive to the yard, with a couple more to the front door, and last, a couple to the rear deck. It was very upsetting but the budget wouldn't allow anything more elaborate/creative.

Someday we may need to add ramps for either myself or my husband who's spine is a "train-wreck". We are planning our walk-ways now and are taking our time due to the future access issues. Most likely we will need ramp access at the rear of the house off the rear deck. Won't be pretty but reality and function win every time. Hopefully we get things finished before we need it. Used to be able to do the hard labor stuff to save money but those days are gone. We also have a strong work ethic and having to ask others for help is very difficult. We have to pick and choose by making smart choices so not to do more damage to our bodies and keep moving!!

I'm so pleased to hear there will be an access ramp off the side of the log home (Serenity Shores I hope). Much easier to do this now then to try to retrofit. Perhaps a beautiful stone/concrete ramp would be of great service for all to access both the home and the rear of the house from the main floor! They could add some type of heating unit to melt the ice off in the winter like they use under driveways. That would be awesome!!

A portable ramp with storage under the deck would be a great idea too. Although something like this should be power operated for total ease of accessibility.

I will trust the front steps look better in person. Some video sure would help us see this, hint, hint.

Oh, and I miss "birch beer" too. Grew up with it in the east and not available here in the west...only was able to have some on special occasions...wow the childhood memories are pouring in...

Sorry for such a long post. Last week was pretty rough but having a better day today...happy fingers. :)

Carrie, thank you so much for your detailed story. As I was reading it I chuckled here and there. LOL You made me laugh! You made me feel as though I was reading a story and I was right there! I'm so glad you had a good time. Sorry you didn't get to go inside...I had been checking the blog all morning waiting for your report. Any more additions will be much appreciated. I could tell that Ahmed was a sweetie just from the videos on the website. Was there a Alex lemonade stand, or a donation place for Cabincraver2008? Probaby not, because of the rain, and that is understandable. If any more memories come to mind, you need to post them....you know you are feeling better with your Blog Cabin OCD, but we who didn't get to go are suffering mighty bad right now. LOL :-) So we need your help! :-)

Hi, I have a raised bed I made almost the same as yours. I also have a pole that is on one side with a cross bar to hang wind chime and bird house. I have morning glory on the back removeable climing trellis and iris bells and for this year some german iris; along with some wild flowers which may come back from fallen seeds. Denise

Carrie ~ Helen ~ Sally~ Thanks so much for your details about the Grand Opening. You are all troupers in my book, what with the rain and filming details, not to forget your own schedules, you still made it over there so that you could share the experience with us all. THANKS!

Ahmed...The raised garden as a voting option is really appreciated! The trellis (my second choice) and fence are great, too, but the garden just calls out to me, especially since the extra food will come in handy when the monthly mortgage payment looms on the horizon (wink)

Misty and Rich: Ahmed is working on getting a ramp worked into the house! He hears us! I hope several areas will be made wheelchair accessible or, at the very least, made ready for retro fitting if and when such needs arise for the Owner/winner/Family/friends of the cabin. Maybe the front porch will change slightly and a chair lift space beneath the stairs will also be 'made ready'(with outlets, etc.) if not installed by the building team.

Clive..... May 16th..
Ahhh, yes, Cadence ---- my kiddos think I have absolutely NONE when I go Rollerblading with them ... I tell them at least they have not yet had to scrape me off the concrete, which should definitely count for Something (smile). And, in my defense, I did try singing and humming a couple of show tunes to develop some rhythm in my glide, but they asked me to stop that, too!

But, as you said, at least they still ask me to go with them, which I absolutely love, love, love! Also, I consider my upright position on Rollerblades a coup d'état towards those who think parents should not participate in any physical activity that links them directly with their children in front of their peers! (wink)

Sorry to see none of your names made the cut. Some of the other ‘elders’ really did a great job coming up with names, but theirs fell by the wayside, too! It must have been a daunting task with submission time ending only yesterday. But the names that were chosen all fit the place and I think I have read several comments from a Lynne on occasions prior to this so she may well ‘represent’ for all the bc ocd’s !

Question about your daughter.... How old is she and how long has she been taking ballet, tap, etc. along with music lessons? I imagine swinging from the scaffolds or rollerblading across the stage with a sign reading: “My Daughter is the Cute and Talented One” would probably not go over too well with the other parents, but I really feel your enthusiasm. I have horrified my two on occasion by clapping way tooo hard or bragging within earshot of them! Secretly, I firmly believe they thrive on the adoration! The impromptu hugs and smiles they send my way are my clues and I am sticking by that theory!

Have Anyone gotten word from Erika or Cabincraver, yet?

BlognBob .... has the LAF sent a response to your email to them on behalf of Cabincraver? Jimmy posted that his wife has had luck with getting items for Cancer Survivors through that organization. I hope they respond favorably to your request. Your post about getting help for Cabincraver and your shared information about your wife and daughter shows you know first hand about a loved ones' needs and your desire to make things as good as they can be for all. I hope your plan takes wing!

Carrie,

Thank you so much for your blog! I like Heading South felt like I was right there with you and your family. I wish I could have made the trip also. You, Sally and Helen have helped all of us that could not make it. I wish you had been able to go in the Log Home but if you think of anything else we are waiting to hear about it for sure!!!!!!!!!!!

It might help this cabin OCD.

I have not seen a blog from cabincavers daughter.
Does anyone know how she is doing? I keep her in my prayers and I know the rest of you do also.

Baskets of Blessings & Happy Bogging
Joyce

Heading South and my ocd blogger friends, I was trying to wait for Ahmed's comment and ???'s if any from you guys to tell you the rest of my blog trip story. Heading South no I didn't see the stand or a donation box. But then I got there late too! sorry! But I had the best time, and things worked out as they should have it seems. I don't even know what the prizes were she said they were drawing the winners today! I haven't heard from them so I'm not sure if I won anything but that's ok with me.

Here it goes, remember I told you Ahmed said what time they were supposed be off around 5:30 well when we got done at the 55 self house tour we went for a little drive 4ish almost 5pm so we go back to the blog cabin. Watching and hoping for a tour to be lined up, No, not one, so we park and we just planned on sitting there until we see Ahmed and we were going to ambush him or one of the other guys that would be brave enough to come out! The Barna man came over to the truck and talked to us a few more minutes. How fuel prices are affecting everyone and everything. There was no one else around! But us and lakefront and Barna reps! Then I see my new best friend in the whole wide world.........
Lisa and the tall guy with the hat, I'm so bad with names. Sorry my other best friend in the whole wide world.

Guess what, they are motioning for us to come over to the drive way and she says to me "they are still filming but come on," You have to be really quiet.....I was shocked, I was back in my blogging dreams, Oh my, Is this real? I thought.. I told her I don't know if I could be quiet. I'm so excited! And I have a 3 year old in tow! Quietness would not be a guarantee from me. But she seemed as excited as me, as we are walking down the driveway, OMG! I'm practly running, sorry guys I forgot to look through the lumber piles and it was pretty muddy right there, I did a quick glance at the sloping hill toward the house and then from the house toward the road. Trust me the yard is at a different grade than it appears and the stairs to the front do look nice up close! and their is probably 3 foot inclined slope from the drive up to where the right porch a small hike up the hill, toward the steps. They are 2 feet maybe 3 feet wide. When you top that there is couple steps little landing and the actual small porch we saw hanging in limbo for so long. It does need those benches I suggested against the railing guys. I don't see it's big enough for chairs to sit on it. But it is nicer than it appears. I personally like the porch and stairs. It does look different on the cam than in person! Lisa took our pictures standing there on the front porch in front of the door She and I both started running thru the house, in different directions. I'm not sure if she had seen it either. She was as excited as me and the guy with the hat, He started up the stairs in a hurry and we realized they were bad thumping, squeakers for now: and that they are rough ins most likely. Sorry Ahmed and crew, it wasn't me! It was him! I didn't dare go up! Wait, I did and thought I had better not dare. I could see through the studs and it looks mainly like the blueprints that I could tell. I really wanted to see the one full bath though, I laughed my head off, (inside quietly) because I could see through a crack from the foyer into the basement where the guys were hiding in what I think is the "man cave". I could hear them talking. Not really understanding them. I think they really were filming! But having a really good time at doing it! I really wanted to and started to run down the stairs and scare the poo out of them but I thought they might fire their nail guns at the crazy blogger (pranker) gone crazy or scream for security if they had them nearby. If I would have gone charging in on them. LOL~~ can you imagine the looks on their faces! ( Watch out boys) Besides that my husband would have drug my butt home in a big hurry, if I had embarrassed him or them. And then I wouldn't have gotten to see the appliances hiding around the corner. Guess what we got, the dark blue washer and dryer! My favorite one! I saw the fridge. The rest was in boxes, couldn't stop long enough to look through, them. Sally that's your job honey. Tell us what you see! But, Then I couldn't focus & went exploring again. I didn't take but 4 or 5 pics. I was just plain too excited to even think of it! It's mainly studs much like in the pictures or videos we have seen. Most of the work is being done down stairs I think. But that was off limits, Oh well! just maybe one of you or I'll get to go back. This is when my daughter thought I was cool for a few minutes again after the hug from Ahmed that is.. I saw a claw foot tub hanging out on the master deck. It might work better in the bathroom guys, but then again that would be so cool to have one of thouse hoop shower curtain there and leave it on the porch for that outdoor shower for summer fun in the tub. And that master bedroom was small, I hope a king bed will fit in there for the winners. But I'm not sure it will! Need to measure it first before you load it up! I think they will have to block the single door access if they use one. No big deal guys we have the double french doors. I walked into the master bath it looks decent sized. I can't wait to see how it ends up. I was so excited I had a hard time remembering the lay out of the shower/ tub area. That entertainment porch is my favorite part. I would almost rather put the master bedroom there! NAAA! That's what would be my thinking room! I love the log rack, very nice guys. There is a slope to the backyard there right down to the lake, Not too far down, about a normal yard size length away. Needs some work for easy access. But, I forgot to look at the stupid left side pile of materials that's kept me wondering watt's up. No I didn't see a dock, or hear of one. But the owner can make that happen if the sponsors don't and they really want one. I didn't walk around the house ground level neither. When I was coming out, I ran into another blogger tourer
Linda from Grayston, HI blogging buddy. We talked a few min. after she was done, She's as excited as me. I sure am glad I met some other bc ocd'rs now I know I really am normal. She says those boys were having way too much fun in the basement! They had a very long day as Ahmed said. It was 10:00 when we got home, so yes I was ocd'd out I couldn't sleep at all last night but was tired to get up and sit at the computer!
Talk to you later guys.

That's right !!!!!! I got lucky, Really!!! I could not believe it!!
I got to go into the house!!!!!!!! I nearly died!

dreams do come true people, keep believing! Be nice and be patient. I saw J.Cameron pass by on the 4 wheeler buggy and I told him who I was and Hi then bye Cause he looked like he was in a real hurry! He was on His way back home to the airport. By the time I turned around and got my son back in the truck and sat down I saw Ahmed at the top of the hill, in his man buggy, He was swamped with people so I decided it was best to part with a wave. So I waved to him and we were on our way back to KY and I had a nice story to tell you all. I hope you all enjoy the virtual trip with me because I really wanted you there with me. It was a fun day, and Thanks to all who made it a good night! Lakefront & homecoming party, Diy host etc, rivr media, barna home and just where were you Mr Watson?

Misty & Rich,
I must sincerely apologize to you for the way my previous blog came out .My original intention was to support you all the way as you so rightly deserve. Adding one of my lifetime experiences to further justify your cause for accessibility. And also to give additional support to Ahmed in his work.(As a separate statement) It was in no way intended that you did not believe he was a man of his word. I do apologize for this huge discrepancy.

My wife is in fact doing much better today. She is nearly thru with her bowel problems and seizures...well, that is hit and miss. Just a part of our life now.

Carrie,
I have to admit, I am biting at the bit waiting for yours and Helens further responses to the open house. It sounds like fun despite the slight weather.

As storage space is keen with a bookshelf. We have a small collection of antique furniture and handcrafted tables ultimately hold a greater value than do book shelves over time as a keepsake. Unless of course we are talking a glass enclosed book shelf which the renderings do not indicate. Therefore, I am voting for the table ,even though the extra space is also rather nice.

You guys & gals are the GREATEST !!! The love and support about accessibility was amazing, thank you so much, the entire blogging family are just the greatest friends. I was having a bad day and was feeling touchy about it, thanks for everyone's understanding and especially to Doug and Cathy and all the others who shared their stories.

BlognBob - we all are praying for your dear wife, you really are a special Hubby and Dad, your family is very lucky to have you. It is wonderful that Ahmed has listened to you and everyone's urging for accessibility. I trust him too and I really believe DIY will do whatever is possible to meet the needs of whoever wins.

Heading South - loved the Molly Horse story, hopefully everyone checks it out, the pony and owner are both remarkable. I emailed it to all my friends. You have such a good heart, you'd be welcome to our house anytime too with the rest of this great blogging family. Anyone heading to Florida please get in touch with us at: rcmc02@embarqmail.com (the 02 are numbers not the letter O). We'll be here unless we win the BBLH in which case we'll see ya at the party we'll throw.

Ahmed - raised beds is a great idea, very accessible for everyone, thanks. The fencing might be helpful for those with dogs, maybe non-climb could be added inside, many HOA's allow it that don't allow chain link or other types of fencing. We have 3 & 4 board for our horses but non-climb affixed to it in our backyard to keep the dogs in. Something that may be helpful for all the dog lovers (us included).

Carrie, Carrie, Carrie - you crack me up, your story had me laughing and I felt like I was right there with you. I only wish you could have gotten inside but I'm so happy you, Chris, Christen & Carter had such a fun time anyway. If you win the BBLH it could be named The 4C's Miracle, you should have entered that name.

Great names & great choices for voting and thanks again to all you terrific bloggers !!

Good Luck & Great Health To All !!

Carrie, Helen and Sally - Thank you all for the report on the Open House. Sorry you did not get to see the inside. Even though it is late I just had to pop in to see what you all had to say about the open house and glad I did. It was well worth it.

Misty, we have disabilities in our family so I understand the difficulties people with disabilities face - it is an on going battle. My husband goes nuts when we go to a store and I see someone without a handicap placate parked in a handicap space - especially since in CT there are so few. I immediately go into the store and report them. If I see these people get into their cars I give them a tongue lashing so they never do it again. My husband tells me some day someone is going to bop me for doing this but I don't care people who park in handicap parking when they don't belong need a tongue lashing! lol

Everyone always thinks it will happen to someone else but I know too many people who have become disable because of accidents and injuries including my brother. So we always need to think about how to make things easier for those who have a more difficult time.

BlognBob sorry to hear about your wife. Hope things get better for you both. Prayers are with you both.

Cabincraver prayers are with you and Erika. Erika, we need to get in touch with you so if you read this please send an email to Watson. We need an email address to get in touch with you - BlognBob had a great idea to help your mom and we need you help!

Just for the record was disappointed with the names chosen for the cabin.

Take care all.

ANOTHER NAME COULD BE: SHORELAND RETREAT OR LODGE
OR: SLUMBER HAVEN OR LOGDE
OR: RETIREES LODGE
OR: THIS IS HOW TO SPEND YOUR LIFE LODGE
OR: MY/OUR DREAM HAS COME TRUE LODGE
OR: THIS IS THE LIFE LODGE

NAMES FOR THE 2008 BLOG CABIN,
HOW ABOUT: SENTIMENTAL MEMORIES!
OR: THE LODGE I/WE ALWAYS WISHED FOR!
OR: MY/OUR GETAWAY HIDEOUT/LODGE!
OR: lODGE OF ADVENTURE AND RELAXATION!

Helen,
Thank You so very much for your blog filling us in on the events of the day.

Carrie,
Thank You , My wife is doing better now. And she is my everything. Just like everyone whom I call family or friend. And Thank You also for your informative blog on these much anticipated days events.

Keight,
No word back from the LAF. I am hoping instead they will be contacting DIY , or better yet...sending them a laptop for Cabincraver. Sometimes as we have done so here many times as a blogging family, it takes a group effort to make things really happen.

Erin,
Thank You for the nice compliment for including Cabincraver for the name of the home. After I had written that I thought recalled someone else submitting something similar including something like Cabincraver but with all the entries I couldn't remember. So, even though the selections have been made I am much more happy knowing that others are also willing to help in the pursuit of getting her a laptop to join us again.

I think unity towards a good cause keeps our blogging family close. It is part of being American. And with the unity we develope towards doing good for our friend Cabincraver, or anyone of what we call family...Well, that is about as American as we can be in my book.

Blogger buddies and Misty
I like that 4c's miracle name. I think I'll make me a plaque with that one on it and put that up on my house or next to the door. You just don't know how true that title is for us every day and then to even get there Sunday, it was a real miracle (not in name only) that we even made it to the open house. First of all it was raining, not a bad rain, but enough to wonder if it would ever go away. We had a 3 1/2 hour drive there and then 3 1/2 hr drive back & that we had that 1& 1/2 hour delay already, it was raining, it'd be dry in one area and then it would start raining on our parade again. We had to stop 1 x for diesel before leaving town, then a 2nd pit stop in Stearns Ky or was it Pine knot, ky for snacks for kids and a poo check for Carter, Some days he goes to potty and somedays well, diapers again. We got 1/2 way there yes a 3rd stop become reality soon we wasn't sure if we were on the right road, I had left the directions sitting on the desk, with the computer, where I had hurriedly checked the blog that morning. Blogs fault this time! J/k Mine! (That was good we are on the right road ! Yeah! Everybody (well chris and christen) fussing why? are we even going! Carter happy to be out of the house, going bye bye twip and big twuks to see! Like Da! Mommy wants to go, people. You guys promised, Please! It wasn't enough they planned to take me (as a Mother's day gift) but kept on torturing me if they were going to take me or not still! (I know for lol ) today, it was funny really and they were getting me back ~ I know it now, except at the time they about had me ready to cry like a baby! They thought it was funny, not me, like RRRR!) Thank goodness we were going the right way. Or he probably would have turned around at that point. (for Lol) We passed the Onieda Barna log company exit and that just put me in a tail spin of excitment again. More threats! So they turned the radio up louder( ooooh! trying to drown me out) So I got paper & pen out if they don't want to hear it! I know who will, And then we had to dodge 6, shriners donation drops (good thing for them) But they were slowing us down even more~with men and ladies standing in the middle of the road from Oneida and 5 more exits later toward Spring City. Plus the traffic lights and the slow drivers) The Shriners: are brave souls, I was worried for their lives because the roads were getting narrower=== and narrower--- and curvier~~~~. And on the last shriner stop 6 I especailly didn't think our big dodge truck was going to pass between the man in the middle of the road and his police escort sitting on the side. And then there was the other car coming. ....... I just closed my eyes and said a little prayer again for all of them to be safe! I was wondering if they would make it out of the road alive or loose their donation buckets to some nutty driver who possibly wanted extra change for fuel.
I just sat there~~ taking those breaths in and out ~~ calm but frustrated. Watching the beautiful landscapes. I had been banned from talking again! (Uh oh! ~not me~ and they turned the radio up so loud they couldn't hear me at all. So what was the next best thing for a talker in trouble, I talk to myself and I grabbed my hubbies graph paper notebook and started keeping, a time detailed notebook from the house to the blog cabin. You guys wanted every detail of the trip .... ok well, mainly the blog cabin scoop. That kept my nerves calm, When I wasn't woozy from the curvy roads, from writing, I kept excitedly but unintentially driving my hubby and daughter crazy still trying to talk about you guys and they would say I know, we know, we hear it daily, and then I would revert back to what I wanted to do first. I wonder what's done, what's not! I pouted franticly thinking I would miss out on the fun! It was real life today for us! Worrying if things would work out or not. They finally told me to shut up, Turned the radio up louder this time) Well I never, you guys are just rude~~ (it's a wonder I didn't end up with a migraine before I even got there. Bloggers you know the it's time to get back to the real world look and attitudes of that's enough, our families gives us bc ocd'rs. I was mad, I don't care that I got the warning before we left the house (I'm so excited and I just can't hide it song going on in my head) & already again warned when he stopped to get the atlas, that I had better be nice, be quiet and not embarrass them or they would leave me there or he would drag my butt home immediately. I didn't think leaving me there would be that big of a deal. (yes) I'll stay, that's my dream home finsihed or not! Then they can do the cleaning in the real world right guys! Because, I would, be there with our blog cabin, I'd hide out and take over blog cabin just like coon did in the big tree house, whenever anyone would leave the work site. I'd make the changes and they would wonder what happened but that they like it and would leave it! I'd be the fairy designer! And when someone did come I would just become the new person on the diy team/ or one of the interns. Or pretend I'm with one of the other groups when one group was there. You know sweep and fill the dumpster, start painting, when that happens, put the furniture here guys, J/K guys..Please don't ban me from the place, if another trip magically appears for us in that direction. I'm really not that crazy, I promise! Ask Helen, Sally and Ahmed. But if plan 1 don't work plan 2 might, I would go beg my buddy Helen for some brownies, to bribe Ahmed and the rest out of them there man caves...(basement) go get Sally and linda And Lisa she might have the keys, she said she didn't live far from there. And we would have our own blogging party in the street maybe do a conga line around the house up those steps and down and sit on the porch talking about voting options and then we would go dancing in the streets and spy on them all from the street and the new neighbor who bought one of the model homes.. That's where we lookers end up when filming is going on...in the streets, ok they might throw us out when the brownies are gone! We could go to the back of the house in the lake from sally's boat and talk all about the goings on, get a tan, fish, eat and be merry, Mean while no busy bees at blog cabin we'll go play there and then sneak back to one of their places and blog as fast as we could to you.... the rest of the story..... really. J/joking! It would be fun though! I have had a blast with this blog making up some stories and telling the truth on others and helping everyone decide options in the house for the winner. I have had a real pleasure in meeting & writing to all my blogging friends in blog town and real life. Great family adventure and fun! It has been and is a real blessing to talk to all of you. ( including Ahmed ( best host hugger & so sweet to the bone & Watson best blog site & Lisa & her friend best tour guide and helen best brownies, lakefront best parklike home sites, and barna best beautiful log cabin house don't forget coming soon blog cabin 2 series and then the big ? of who will win, Can't wait to see who the house picks for it's new owner and if they can keep it, or not, I hope they can ) And that they will share in some way their memories there with us who love the place so and All of you guys are like family to me. You guys are the real deal! You are a testimony and a blessing to me everyday..
God bless you all today and always!
God, He is a wonderful Savior and there for us all when we trust Him even in the good times and the bad times. Don't forget that! We all have struggles in adventure called life: Trust, Forgive, believe, have faith, even when you can't be where you want to be or do what you want to do. Where or what ever that is! We all have been there or are there at one point in our lives or sometimes daily we struggle in one way or another. We need to love and pray for all those friends out there. Whether we know them or not!

ok so read all the blogs to get caught up finally
blogginbob you are truely a treasure us gals all want a husband like you. im fortunate cause i got one .[ i was sick last week a stomach thing and as i was hurling my honey bear was mopping the floor] hes my hero!!
we have a 2 story house with a connecting breeseway, sooo today i came home and my little blue birds were practicing flying on the roof of the breeseway [guess im going to have to thank that dang woodpecker] omg it was soooo cool. i get excited about small things.
i want deeper colors in the main room, still like the cherry table did i mention it was cherry ? voted for the fence but not passionate
the name the "watts one" but im disappointed
i did fear that the company that chose just looked at the first few. i really think the later ones were better. but what ever. i agree that the serenity one is really not my choice
well everyone have a great mem weekend im working pays the mortgage and buys dog food.

oh i forgot blessings to cabincraver and erika

The cabin is fantastic. Just one comment though...the front step design makes it look more like a barricade than a welcoming entrance.

Hi AhMed and felow bloggers...the open house sounded real exciting! wish I could have been part of it also. I live in Oregon, although my son and wife and grandkids, uncle and cousins live in Knoxville. I told my son about the cabin,he hopes I win so he can see me again sooner than later, he cannot afford to come here,such a long ways and all, I have my mom to care for here. I do not hold out to much hope of winning, but there is always that small chance, so I along with many of you nice folks will cross our fingers together(smile)as we do our daily entering soon. I do hope with many of you that the next home that HGTV or DIy builds is acessable for people who are physically challenged, and on one floor too, though I know building up gets more use of the land. I live in a townhouse duplex now with my mom and she has to sleep in the living room because she can no longer climb stairs. I have taken care of my mom for 5 years now, she is paralized by a stroke it happened on ironically on mem day 5 years ago as we were planning a camp trip. When I have taken her out we have such a hard time getting through doors I was surprised at the places that have no access I appreciate much more what folks go through than I used to. My mom is in hospice now and so mapping the progress of the cabin and reading the blogs kinda keeps my mind off of that, she will be going home soon to her cabin in the sky, and she is ready at 86, I will miss her lots though, she has always been my best friend,I know many of you can relate. I am a widow for the last 10 years. I catch up with the blogs when I can which is usually late at night. I hope those who were able to go to the open house enjoyed themselves, sounds like it from the many blogs Ihave read.Hope those that were too far away also had a nice memorial day. God Bless our troops!and those we all have lost. I voted my choices today and was happy to see that all my choices were winning. Good luck to all of you, wish I had you as neighbors! you all sound so nice. Thanks Ahmed and gang all girls and guys that worked so hard to make dreams come true, and hosting. Best of luck to all,and I hope the one that really needs and wants to live in the cabin gets to call it home. Wow! I wrote much more than I usually do guess I needed to vent jsut call me Rosie LOL!! Better get in bed its 1:38 AM Marilyn Stanphill Klamath Falls Oregon

How about: "My Lil Tennessee Getaway" ?

I want to know when the BLOG CABIN will be open to the public

I would like to know when we can register to win the cabin? I have not seen when that will happen. Thank You for your help.