Hoping not to sound like a broken record on this important matter, but posting this comment again for anyone who may have jumped to the new comment area without going back to the old one.

Dear Watson and Ahmed ....

Is there anyway to persuade the producers that the first episode of 2008 Blog Cabin should be dedicated to: CABINCRAVER 2008

As you know, CabinCraver 2008 has played in integral part in this Blog from the very beginning. However, her last post indicated that she was to undergo further surgery in her battle with cancer. There have been no further updates by her or her daughter, Erika, since that comment was posted many weeks ago.

Whether CabinCraver 2008 is with us in body, mind, or spirit is unknown. However, her impact upon the “off-site building team” has not diminished, nor have the good thoughts and hopeful intentions that continue to be posted for her by Elders and others in the 2008 “off-site building team” family.

It would be a remarkable grand gesture on the part of the SCRIPPS/DIY Network to pay tribute to her remarkable spirit by dedicating that episode to her. Her support of the Blog Cabin remained strong and resolute, even as her mission to fight on become more critical and difficult.

Whether she is recovering today, or whether her tenacity to beat the odds has run its valiant course, I believe such recognition would be a treasure for her, and for her family.

Moreover....The Dedication of a show as evidence of the fond memories held by many for Cabincraver 2008, a very special 2008 Blog Cabin participant, speaks to the core values of the Scripps Network, too!

Can you offer any suggestions as to how this could come to pass? Would sending emails directly to the Scripps Network (that an episode is dedicated to CabinCraver 2008) or posting similar requests here in this Blog be a plausible avenue to travel to see results?

Thank you, Watson and Ahmed, for taking the time in your busy day to respond. Thank you to all the other 'off-site building team' family who think recognizing CabinCraver 2008 is this manner a good idea and take the time to follow-up with posts, comments and emails and any ideas/instructions from Watson and Ahmed that will cause this idea to be realized.

I believe....
Friendship Multiplies Our Joys And Divides Our Grief.

I really like the pizza oven, what a fun and great idea! Brick Oven Baked pizza it the best baking method; inorder to get the rich full crispy crust flavor of the pizza pie...my hats off to you!

Wow!!!! Ya'll this is looking great. I love the extra little touches to make it a beautiful home. Wasn't our voting right on????

A. Muse....I "ditto" you with all you are saying in regards to Cabincraver2008..I hope DIY will certainly takes your request into consideration, knowing that it has been quite sometime since we have heard from Cabincraver2008 or her daughter Erika. This blogging family does have a very sincere concern for Cabincraver, and I personally want to thank you for sharing your thoughts and your idea of a dedication to Cabincraver2008; and like you said with the tenacity she exhibited in contributing to the DIY Blogging Off Site Team inspite of her weaken condition fighting this cancer.....I hope that DIY will incline their ears to your post...Thanks A. Muse,it is a privlege to have you as a blogging friend, with all your positive posts and ofcourse your great stories that i so loved to read...

PIZZA OVEN ? OH YEHHHHHH! PIZZA PARTIES AND THE MANCAVE ! Then out to the back and sit in the chairs and take in all of the beauty. Too Much !

The Day before Fathers Day I got me a Papa Murphy's Chicago Style stuffed crust pizza and put it in the fridge for the following afternoon. But...It kept calling to me..BlognBob....BlognBob...I am here ! Come and feast upon my delicouslness now! It was too much for me. I tried to restrain myself but, I had it for a guys breakfast Fathers Day morning.

WOW ! Everything is so beautiful ! And what surprizes. Man , you guys are really outdoing yourselves.

Watson,
Thank You so much for all the wonderful pictures. It will take some serious time to take this all in.

Ahmed,
That is one of the most beautiful mini landscapes outside the Man Cave ! You are truly talented. I have always loved Japanese Maples. Absolutely Beautiful. You and Watson have a personal invitation for a barbeque at our house if either of you are ever in the area. Of course I will have to ask you for some ideas on landscaping my place.

Thanks Patty for the s/s pictures of the kitchen (last slide) and the new slide show too. Just passing the time away readng the blogs and I started hearing pecking on the window. ( thought it was you know who's robin coming to terrorize me for a while). It's not, Wow! it's hailing, Sorry had to stop and watch for a second , we got a thunderstorm warning, wishing I was in that mancave about now. J/K not too bad of a storm, but it is hailing at least pea size hail & for a full minute, neat and it's raining pretty heavy. Could be worse right! I'm glad it's raining, maybe it'll cool down a little, been really bad hot here! I guess my daughter is wishing she took her rain jacket to summer church camp about now! She was too stubborn to pack it, or should I say listen to mom: dropped her off this morning!
Now let me get started on the new slide:
Yes, a pizza oven! Awesome! We could bake bread too! And maybe put a few baked potatoes in there, what else could we do? Maybe put a pot of chili or stew in there or a Roasting pan for a roast. A ky favorite, soup(pinto)beans & corn bread) Dean and Derek you guys did such a great job on the P/O and the water feature! Thank you thank you! Ahmed the corner planter, is so sweet, love the pots here and there too! I just knew that tub would go in the master & not on the porch(wink) Don't you guys like outdoor showers(hee hee?) You could put up a privacy screen in the corner near the fireplace, you know. (keep warm in the winter months) :) Pipe the water to the landscaping (wink) j/k... It will be gorgeous in the master b.r... maybe you can get a little electric/gas fireplace to hang nearby it.
Watson, why do we only get one cabin cam pic per day; when there are dozens of them p/ day to share with us. :( I know, you have to save some for the series. but I'm ocd'd again. Give me another dose guys. I like the ceiling tiles in the man cave it reminds me of a tin ceiling! Interesting fun green color on the walls in there! well I better get off of here I see it's getting dark again and it's thundering, didn't hear it while ago. So it's probably lightning this round, coming.
Catch you all later, love everything, thanks for all the hard work blog cabin team on the inside & out!

I love that patio and the chairs are inviting me to come sit and watch( I mean help you) work!

Heading South and Carrie Miracle....

Thanks so very much for posting your support of the idea to have the first episode of 2008 Blog Cabin in August dedicated to CabinCraver 2008. As always, the true spirit of 'family' that has developed in this Blog is evident in your prompt and sincere posts.

And... to the many other Elders and ever growing 'off-site building team' family, I hope many more of you will find this idea of value, and give it a GREAT BIG THUMBS UP by pushing for it to be accomplished by the Scripps Network.

If we are able to show that this idea has lots of viewer appeal, it may well become one of the comments that DIY and the Scripps Network embraces fully.

TO Cabincraver 2008 and Her Family: Always remember: Friendship multiplies our joys and divides our grief. You are much loved. Please let your extended 'family' hear from you soon.

Oh wow! Do you think my new neighbor would mind me coming over to bake some breads or pizza in that pizza oven?!!! I even know where you can get good pizza crust around here to make the pizzas. It took me 8 months to find it, but they have great pizza and dough.

Thank you once again for such tantalizing photos! So that's the trick, do all the work out back that the cabin cam can't see and then keep surprising us! I can live with that.

Ahmed, I hope you wave to the camera every once and while once you start the front landscaping. Feel free to take a white board so you can take turns writing "Hi so and so" on it for us to see!

I really hope something is done to dedicate this to CabinCraver2008, but if not done by the network, I know if I win I'll be doing a really nice bronze plaque commemorating the cabin to her and her family.

Are those just braces or the actual retaining walls on the right side of the driveway? I hope they are permanent, I was wondering about the whole erosion issue.

Thought of you this weekend Carrie as I took my 2 and my friends 3 kids to a movie all by myself. That equated out to one adult and 5 kids from the ages of 12 - 5. Which I'm sure some are saying "big deal". But you know what it is when you are use to 2 and the other 3 aren't yours. And I giggled to myself as I thought if I had Carrie and her 2 we could easily between the 2 of us and her oldest handle this no problem. But all in all it went fine other than the stares from people of a woman alone with 5 kids. ;)

Man cave hmmm. Looking more and more like a great scrapbooking room! Hee hee! Pizza goes realy well with a scrapbooking weekend!

Funny how some areas get too much rain and I'd love for it to dowse our parched areas in AZ. I've lived here all my life and I'll never get use to or like how dry it gets.

Well, gotta see what I can make for dinner!

Thanks again very much for all the great slide shows DIY gang!

NoelB
That sounded like fun and yes I would have loved to have joined you and the kid gang for a movie. I'm glad you survived! That's a crowd for one momma! So what did we see? Right on about the scrapbooking room, got me a corner picked out near that french door! how about you?
Mancave designer, make a woman corner (scrap booking corner)in that there movie I mean man cave! I had to come back & finish reading, storms have cleared up already, but we have a new watch until 11pm now. I gotta get some supper too while my 3 year old shakking my head off my shoulders saying he's hunnnngggrry! Like that boy didn't already eat 10 min. ago! He snacks all day long, bye he's gonna get me! (he hee!)

Okay, I'm seriously drooling over that awesome kitchen and those stainless appliances. I can so picture cooking in that kitchen and serving up some great Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners. And a outdoor fountain and pizza oven. WOW. The winner will think they died and gone to heaven.

I like it! I like it! I like it! Wow! A pizza oven! Better than a BBQ Grill!

well there are two questions about Cabincraver that haven't been answered by DIY.
1. Can we get the episode dedicated?
2. Can we get a site for donations set up?

Now I have another question. Is there a way DIY can connect with CabinCraver? Since you have all of our e-addresses maybe you can send a direct e-mail to her home and let her know we are worried about her.
Great shots. If I win all of you can come over and break in that pizza oven. Hope it comes with a lot of instructions cause if God had wanted me to cook She wouldn't have invented restaurants. LLL

All of you builders, designers, craftspeople, artists and wild/wooley personalities!! You absolutely take my breath away!!! This cabin is so very spectacular! I made the mistake of peeking in while at work - and I just couldn't work till I scrolled through the new pictures!! Now I know for sure that I won't win it - its far too beautiful and dreamlike and totally out of my wildest imagining! Thank you, everyone for going over and beyond - for showcasing your talents. The pizza oven (I've seen you guys build one on TV - this is even better), the mancave ceiling, the soothing water treatment (I have the imagination to see it w/Ahmend's landscaping & love it), the awsome little landscaping surprise outside the mancave (Theresecave?) - that kitchen! Those appliances! Be still my heart!! And I thought the last cabin was gorgeous - this is beyond words! Oh, and I love quirky pictures - so go ahead and hang upside down to get all the features in - I love it!! It just needs my kayak sitting on the shore - sigh!

Ahmed - I'm still working on my backyard and am loving it. Picked up a Royal Ponciana tree to put off into the distance to draw the eye back there. Put in a cactus rose and an herb garden. Found more varieties of plumeria so now I have quite a rainbow of colors and started some sweetpea vines. So far I haven't killed anything & even found a bonus - native Florida orchids growing in our trees! I'm starting small but give me a few years - it will be very nice. It would be nicer if I have your expert knowledge and some help! (hint, hint?) But I'm muddling along.

Regarding Cabincraver - I work with cancer patients and have lost many friends and learned many lessons on living that I still stumble to weave into my moral fiber. Although I fully realize that there is a thin blue line between hope and denial - I do hope for some happy news regarding cabincraver.

The Man Cave is taking shape at last. Now I am wondering what the back space will be used for? I have a good friend who built a spec house in Southeast Idaho he is trying to sell. Way overkill at over 5500sq. ft. But it also has a Man Cave/Theater room. Surround sound speakers built into the walls, Nearly full wall projection tv.
Personally while I didn't care as much for the projection image ,I hope you guys might consider something similar for the sound. The built in sound really rocks the house. I think he was selling it for 500k. cheaper out there I guess. I am orginially from Seattle so that is cheap to me.
Also, will the wainscotting be a darker color? I am glad for the direction the tv mount is facing due to reflection issues.Those double doors are going to really light things up by themselves. And the lowered panel ceiling is pretty cool. Especially if you decided to add things later. Easy access.
Still can't get over the Pizza Oven. That shocked me completely. Thank You for such a fun and beautiful home guys.

Hi all,

Love the new slide shows, what a surprise with all the new items we didn't know about.

Also, thank you A. Muse. What a wonderful idea to dedicate the first episode to Cabincraver. I don't post much, but do read all of the blog messages. I also have been looking for a message from Cabincraver or her daughter as to how she is doing. She has been an inspiration to all on the blog and has shown all that with determination and faith you can continue to endure. Do you hear us DIY (Watson) we the blog family wish to dedicate the first episode of the 2008 Blog Cabin to Cabincraver who we all have been privileged to have in our lives.

Keep the prayers going,

THE PIZZA OVEN IS WONDERFUL...I LOVE THE FOUNTAIN TOO. EVERYTHING IS REALLY STARTING TO TAKE SHAPE.. IT MAKES FOR A WONDERFUL FEELING TO SEE IT ALL COMING TOGETHER. WONDERFUL JOB!!! I LOVE THE MAN CAVE TO, THE COLORS ,THE CEILING ,I SURE HOPE I WIN. SELFISH I KNOW.BUT WHO EVER WINS IS SO, SO LUCKY...THANKS LOTS OF LOVE DEB AND NEICES

BlognBob:
Thanks BlognBob for your follow-up information about the L.A.F. ---based upon the response you received, do you think that if Erika is reading the Blog, she should contact the foundation directly for help? It sounds like the foundation must hear from the person/family in need, or have something submitted by their attending physician for the L.A.F. to be able to respond to requests. Or did you draw another conclusion from the letter they sent?

A. Muse..... The idea of dedicating one of the episodes to Cabincraver 2008 is sheer genius!
Thank you so much for offering this suggestion. I hope everyone does all they can to encourage the network to incorporate it into the show.

There has been such an outpouring of prayers and wishes for so many in need of a little extra care and concern during this Blog. The discussions as to how to let Cabincraver and her family know that the 'off-site building team' is committed to seeing them through their difficult journey has continued even when the posts from them have stopped.

I know what you are referring to as I have seen other programs on TV that run a 'Dedication Message' as the credits are rolling.

It would be an extraordinary way to highlight the spirit of community (that develops among DIY Bloggers) for the Scripps Network.

Watson and/or Ahmed ..... Any chance you can help us figure out how to get the dedication thing to happen?

Watson...
Thanks for the new pictures .... When will you and the on-site building crew take the pizza oven for a taste test run? .... You must, you know! Just to make certain it is working properly for the winner/owner, of course! I'd be happy to share an awesome pizza dough recipe and toppings so good your tongue will be dancing with joy! (wink)

A. Muse .... I want to add my name to the petition to have the first 2008 Blog Cabin episode Dedicated to Cabincraver. Any news yet as to how we can get the idea to the people in charge of the program content ~~~ Watson? Ahmed?

Great Photos....

Couple of questions:

1. Will the metal gridwork holding up the ceiling tile panels in the Man Cave be painted to match the tiles, or will the white color be used as a contrast color on the ceiling and also picking up on the color of the waisncoating?

2. Any chance there will be some foot rests to go with the chairs on the patio?

3. Are all the cement walls going in for erosion and water run-off protection?

4. With the wall by the garage area .... is the driveway going to be extended a bit into the back yard so that getting into and out of the garages will be a little less accident prone? Maybe there is a lot more room than it looks like in the pictures, but it sure seems like it is going to take some fancy driving to get in and out of the garages and up and down the driveway.

AND....

5. I think the dedication idea for Cabincraver 2008 is great? Is there a petition or an email address to send the request in care of so that the program people can work it in at the end of the first show?

I agree that some kind of mention of Cabincraver2008 should be made... if not a dedication... then Ahemd could explain how the Bloggers voted & discussed the things the cabin needed and that one of the Bloggers was fighting Cancer... and that the Bloggers (from across the US...sent well wishes to her) and that she loved blogging.. to the point of trying to keep in touch even when the Dr. ordered bedrest....and we haven't heard how she is doing since her surgery.. and everyone sends their Love...

Know you can't say prayers on TV.... so say we send our Love and Best Wishes to Cabincraver2008 from Texas

Texan in Okie land

Happy Tuesday, friends,

All I can say is WOW! Derek/Dean, I just love all of your work. You are so good to us. The stone work adds so much to the whole rustic quality of the house. The mini garden shown on slide #5 is just perfect.

I voted for the Adirondack chairs so it was nice to see then sitting on the porch. I know many voters wanted the rockers, but these just look "right."

What great ideas for using the pizza oven. I am a bread baker and probably wouldn't have thought of using the oven for baking bread. We could all cook/bake like real pioneers with this oven and not heat up the house!

DIY, this is the best house - keep up the great work.

Wow! A pizza oven - that's superb! The man cave is looking great. Love all the new pictures of the inside and out. It's coming together so perfectly. I love it!

A. Muse: I agree wholeheartedly with you about dedicating a show to our dear Cabincraver 2008 and Erika. But, if that never comes to pass, I know I (and most of the other bloggers) would, if we win, find some way to memorialize our dear old friends. A bronze plaque at that water feature (which I am sure will be a beautiful place for meditation and prayer)seems just about perfect.

Thanks, dear Dean & Derek, for the Pizza Oven. I've got a great way to make pizza I learned from a dear old Italian friend: Frozen loaves of bread dough - you just take out the appropriate number for the size of crowd, defrost, spread into crust, let rise, spread with homemade red gravy (sauce - o.k., so if you haven't made any in a few years, there are several good store brands, just hide the jars fast in the recycling bin!) Then add toppings to suit the crowds. Just make sure you put plenty of fennel seeds in the sausage. From plain cheese for the toddlers to all veggie for the health-conscious to utterly delicious "supremes" you will make everyone happy. Promise: if I win or get to go to the bloggers' party, I'll make a few.
Thanks again, Watson, for the slide show. Going back now to watch again and dream....

Ahmed, You proven me out. I have all the faith in the world of your ability to finish the cabin in a great way. The bonus pix are great!! I believe any praise I might attempt to offer will be repititious, but ya'll done good, keep up the great work!!

Hope everyone had a great Father's Day weekend. All my children and grandchildren were here with all the usual stuff. We got out the smoker and had ribs, chicken, veggies, salads, and accompanying fattening desserts(pecan pie), sweet tea and then a little exercise in the pool. Had a terrific day, even with all the differences of opinion! Congratulations to all you fathers(Ahmed, hope you were able to make it home.) Aren't kids just great? especially when you can send them home. Don't know what I'd do without them!! Just love'em all!! Hope you'all had a great one.

Watson: I believe everyone would favor a recognition for Cabincraver, whatever her current condition might be, for her contribution to the 2008 Blog Cabin. If nothing else at least a text only recognition(perhaps quotes of her positive contributions to this years, 2008 BLOG CABIN). Whatever can be done would certainly be appreciated by her and her family?? Thank You for all your efforts.

Jimmy at Waldo/06/17/2008

Hi Fellow Bloggers,
I agree with what everyone has mention about Cabincraver 08. I miss her in put, love, humor and strength. I would love to hear from her, if possible, or her daughter Erika, and I know we would all feel blessed just to hear from them.

The slide show just makes me dream bigger and love the Log Home even more! Helen if I should be blessed enough to win you can certainly come over to use the Pizza Oven and you know we would have to know where to go to get the best pizza crust, right? I will let you know before we leave to ride down so you can be looking for us. It would be great if you guys could ride around with us and show us the area!

The water feature along with everything else is just mind blowing! I love water features, flowers, birds and anything to do with the outside and nature. I have dreamed like so many others of just sitting there looking at the lake and soaking it all in!

DIY has out done their selves with this project, I think. I know we had out little voices saying what we would want in this Log Home but it has come together so beautifully. I really think the only thing I would want to add would be a screened in area.

Baskets of Blessings & Happy Blogging
Joyce

Thanks for all the great new pictures! I have been having withdrawel since voting stopped. Everything looks great!!! I love the pizza oven. It is amazing what them two can do with stone. The appliances are perfect and the man cave is looking good. I can't imagine how great it would be to live there. I already told my husband we will be moving as soon as I win!!!!!!!!! He is a postmaster and I am a caseworker. I figure we will find a job. I am sure they have post offices and social services in Tennesee.

A. Muse .... Count me in...I want to add my name to the petition as well, to have the first 2008 Blog Cabin episode Dedicated to Cabincraver.

Any news yet as to how we can get this idea into action?
~~~ Watson/Ahmed please follow up on this...

Maybe if we all sign a petition listing our email addresses you can submit it to the right person in charge! If this is acceptable, please place a link on the Blog Cabin site!

Thank you for your help, as we know you've got so much to handle already...

But to us "off~site builders", this is a really big concern...

We've all become one big family here...when one hurts, we all hurt! When one needs Prayer, we all Pray! and if one needs help, we all want to be there for them!

Dear Watson, Ahmed, Scripps Network, and DIY 2008 Blog Cabin Program Advisers:

I've gathered together the responses that have already been posted since the idea of dedicating an episode to CABINCRAVER 2008 was introduced into the Cabin Blog.

As you can see by the number of posted comments listed below, the desire to have the contributions of CABINCRAVER 2008 validated through a dedicated episode and/or mention by Ahmed is gaining momentum..... There are many who have added much to the experience, and, by recognizing CABINCRAVER 2008, Scripps Network, in a sense, is acknowledging the efforts the far-reaching intentions of the entire group.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~Posted by: Carrie Miracle at June 16, 2008 4:07 PM .... “ I think that dedicating a get well wish to cabincraver from her blogging buddies on the first episode or even in the credits is an incredibly beautiful idea! you are a sweet heart! I second your idea all the way! I do hope and pray that cabincraver is feeling better. I miss her sweet personality! If you are reading these blogs mrs cabincraver just know you are in all our hearts and all our prayers are with you and your family.”
~~~~~~~~~~~ Posted by: Heading South at June 16, 2008 4:36 PM: “ I "ditto" you with all you are saying in regards to Cabincraver2008..I hope DIY will certainly takes your request into consideration, knowing that it has been quite sometime since we have heard from Cabincraver2008 or her daughter Erika. This blogging family does have a very sincere concern for Cabincraver, and I personally want to thank you for sharing your thoughts and your idea of a dedication to Cabincraver2008; and like you said with the tenacity she exhibited in contributing to the DIY Blogging Off Site Team inspite of her weaken condition fighting this cancer.....I hope that DIY will incline their ears to your post
~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Posted by: BlognBob at June 16, 2008 10:00 PM: Excellent idea with dedicating this cabin in the name of Cabincraver. This way her name and importance to our blogging family will always be remembered. I support your idea 100% percent. Watson, please will you let the DIY powers that be know our desires to make this happen. I know it is important to gather community support to make certain things happen. So, I am will be glad to help you push this one forward”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Posted by: LindaL at June 16, 2008 9:48 PM: “well there are two questions about Cabincraver that haven't been answered by DIY.1. Can we get the episode dedicated? 2. Can we get a site for donations set up?Now I have another question. Is there a way DIY can connect with CabinCraver? Since you have all of our e-addresses maybe you can send a direct e-mail to her home and let her know we are worried about her”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Posted by: Therese at June 16, 2008 10:01 PM: “Regarding Cabincraver - I work with cancer patients and have lost many friends and learned many lessons on living that I still stumble to weave into my moral fiber. Although I fully realize that there is a thin blue line between hope and denial - I do hope for some happy news regarding cabincraver”.
Posted by: Sandra from Louisiana at June 16, 2008 11:07 PM: “What a wonderful idea to dedicate the first episode to Cabincraver. I don't post much, but do read all of the blog messages. I also have been looking for a message from Cabincraver or her daughter as to how she is doing. She has been an inspiration to all on the blog and has shown all that with determination and faith you can continue to endure. Do you hear us DIY (Watson) we the blog family wish to dedicate the first episode of the 2008 Blog Cabin to Cabincraver who we all have been privileged to have in our lives.” Keep the prayers going.
~~~~~~~~~ Posted by: Keight at June 16, 2008 11:50 PM: “The idea of dedicating one of the episodes to Cabincraver 2008 is sheer genius!Thank you so much for offering this suggestion. I hope everyone does all they can to encourage the network to incorporate it into the show. There has been such an outpouring of prayers and wishes for so many in need of a little extra care and concern during this Blog. The discussions as to how to let Cabincraver and her family know that the 'off-site building team' is committed to seeing them through their difficult journey has continued even when the posts from them have stopped. I know what you are referring to as I have seen other programs on TV that run a 'Dedication Message' as the credits are rolling. It would be an extraordinary way to highlight the spirit of community (that develops among DIY Bloggers) for the Scripps Network. Watson and/or Ahmed ..... Any chance you can help us figure out how to get the dedication thing to happen? “
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Posted by: Jenn at June 17, 2008 12:03 AM: “I want to add my name to the petition to have the first 2008 Blog Cabin episode Dedicated to Cabincraver. Any news yet as to how we can get the idea to the people in charge of the program content ~~~ Watson? Ahmed? “

~~~~~~~~~~~~ Posted by: KateByTheLake at June 17, 2008 12:25 AM: “I think the dedication idea for Cabincraver 2008 is great? Is there a petition or an email address to send the request in care of so that the program people can work it in at the end of the first show?”
~~~~~~~~~~~~ Posted by: Barbara Turner at June 17, 2008 4:53 AM: “I agree that some kind of mention of Cabincraver2008 should be made... if not a dedication... then Ahemd could explain how the Bloggers voted & discussed the things the cabin needed and that one of the Bloggers was fighting Cancer... and that the Bloggers (from across the US...sent well wishes to her) and that she loved blogging.. to the point of trying to keep in touch even when the Dr. ordered bedrest....and we haven't heard how she is doing since her surgery.. and everyone sends their Love... Know you can't say prayers on TV.... so say we send our Love and Best Wishes to Cabincraver2008 from TexasTexan in Okie land

~~~~~~~~~~~ Posted by: Connie at June 17, 2008 8:58 AM: “I agree wholeheartedly with you about dedicating a show to our dear Cabincraver 2008 and Erika. But, if that never comes to pass, I know I (and most of the other bloggers) would, if we win, find some way to memorialize our dear old friends. A bronze plaque at that water feature (which I am sure will be a beautiful place for meditation and prayer)seems just about perfect.”
~~~~~~~~~~ Posted by: Jimmy at June 17, 2008 10:44 AM: “Watson: I believe everyone would favor a recognition for Cabincraver, whatever her current condition might be, for her contribution to the 2008 Blog Cabin. If nothing else at least a text only recognition(perhaps quotes of her positive contributions to this years, 2008 BLOG CABIN). Whatever can be done would certainly be appreciated by her and her family?? Thank You for all your efforts. Jimmy at Waldo/06/17/2008”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Posted by: Joyce at June 17, 2008 1:38 PM: “I agree with what everyone has mention about Cabincraver 08. I miss her in put, love, humor and strength. I would love to hear from her, if possible, or her daughter Erika, and I know we would all feel blessed just to hear from them.”

RE: Jimr @ June 15: You wrote: SEPTIC/waste accommodations - I have not found any information on the septic or sewage accommodations for this Blog cabin. It is below the highest street level and near lake edge. If sewage main is in street or leech field set higher, a flutter valve/pump in a two tank system is required. This limits the type of product premitted to be flushed. How did you solve the septic issue? Great house & location.

Here is some previously posted information about the Septic System, Garbage Pick-up, and Water Irrigation from Watts Barr Lake to the Lots. Hope this info. helps answer your questions and also some others that may arise when you read the first answer.

1. Are the houses on a Septic System or city owned wastewater hook-up?
Answer: When you build, you pay Watts Bar Utility District a sewer tap fee of about $5000. They come and set a septic tank on your lot and hook it to the underground lines at the street where it is pumped to an on site filtration system. They maintain the tank, lines, etc. forever and you just pay a sewer bill to them that is based on your water usage.

2. Many have mentioned there is no garbage pick-up and folks truck their trash to the dump themselves. Will the development contract with someone to haul away trash and pick-up materials for recycle (newspapers, plastic, etc.) and, if that is set-up, is it part of the Homeowners' dues or a separate charge?.
Answer: At this time, there is no one picking up trash in the area and yes, you would have to take your trash/recycling to a facility on Hwy 68. In the past, there have been private contractors who hauled trash for a fee. The likelihood of that happening in Lakefront Estates would improve as more families move into Lakefront Estates.

2. Can a Homeowner pump water from Watts Barr Lake to use to irrigate their landscaping? Is there a fee or special equipment that would be required?
Answer: TVA typically does allow irrigation from the lake and the developer has already put in such a system to irrigate the common areas of Lakefront Estates. Each homeowner would have to make application to TVA, on their form 26A, and then put in a pump that is sized for their particular need. There is no fee other than perhaps a nominal application fee

Hi Guys,
Just checked in again on the "Blog Cabin
Photo Gallery".....Cabin Happenings!!
It is amazing and all of you who worked
on every detail inside and out have our
respect and admiration!! You should be
very proud of what you have accomplished
and it won't be long until the finished
product is complete! We will miss all of
you and the joy you brought us each day!!
Thanks so much. The Dale's

Hi everyone The dedication to Cabincraver is a wonderful idea add my name to the list I do not see why it could not be done they dedicate shows to people all the time and she is an inspiration to us all. The cabin is so great it just keeps getting better and better The winner is going to be one very lucky person

KatebytheLake, those are some good questions! I was curious too about those walls. How about letting us know on that Watson or Ahmed, especially the one we can see on the cabin cam. I believe they depicted in the voting that footrests came with those chairs, soooo..... Also seems to me some little bear(s) has been trying them out (wink wink).

Carrie, well since I had 2 boys, which is an adjustment in itself ;), we saw KungFu Panda. Had to refill the big popcorn thing ;), thank goodness for free refills! Very cute, keeping in mind I'm not one for Asian religion. One of the extra kiddos sounds like your son, everytime I turned around she was asking if she could have a snack! My goodness, that's definately a consideration in the grocery shopping each week huh?!! So any other storms that evening? Our front window faces north east and when those monsoons roll in it is soooo neat to watch! Not to mention some of the sunrises we catch.

Keight, I checked the link out too, thank you. But, alas they are all out in the east ;( .

Helen, not only can we do pizzas together if I win, but I wonder how brownies would cook in it ;)!! I would be experimenting with that thing nonstop. Especially in the summer to keep the temps down inside. Then again in the winter too, just to have a fire to warm by.

DIY you guys really do ROCK (sorry showing my age/generation). Such great surprise features and continued photos! Really, Thank you DIY for all you do!

Hey Misty & Rich
Haven't heard from you since the 6th on the other entry,
I missed you!
Have you seen the new slides yet? You know I'm SE&CHI ! How about you?

I agree with A. Muse about honoring Cabincraver. That would be an awesome idea if someone can pull it off.
Also, I love the new slide shows. The pizza oven and little planted plot are wonderful, just like the rest of the home. Thanks DIY for giving us more to stave off withdrawls of bc-ocd.

Hi all! I just got back a bit ago from the blog home. I had some family visiting me from Eau Claire, WI, for the day (they are visiting their father in Erwin, TN), and took them on a golf cart ride over to see the blog home. I was surprised to see the crew there filming. I got there just as they were sitting down to eat lunch, so didn't want to bother them. Liz and Eileen were blown away by how nice the house looks. And, were very surprised to hear how it's even prettier from the water. I had my friend's golf cart as Eileen is 87 years old, and not too steady on her feet. My friend's dog Odie, ran beside the cart over there. What was funny, was that Odie didn't know whether to come home with us, or stay there once he got whiff of the lunch they were being served. LOL (Sorry guys if Odie was a pain. I would've bought you guys brownies, but, my family scarfed up the brownies, and peach/blackberry coffee cake I made as well. There were 4 kids here swimming in the lake-- need I say more?)

Ahmed: Looks like two loads of gravel dumped out front since this morning. Is this the beginning of a drive laid out like the original drawings?? seems like a great idea to me; with a 180* turn back into the garage?? What's up, doc?? Can you tell, we all can hardly wait to see what you do with the landscaping and access to front door, side porch and other entrances?

Helen: What's going on with the yard? Have you visited the property lately? Looks like things should start to happen pretty quick now.

I can just imagine having a magnificent Christmas in the Blog Cabin! It is gonna be someones terrific early Christmas present. Can't you just see lights all around the deck/porch, the fence, trees, boat dock, and everywhere?? When I win, you all are invited to the biggest Christmas party ever. What better way to celebrate the Life of Jesus Christ? Dear Lord, just show us the Way!! There is only One Way! LOL

Noel B
Sounds so familiar w/ the hungry monsters, I meam kids. I'm wiped out everytime they all get together here. But we try to go get snacks that evening ( let them pick out a couple flavors of ice cream, cookies or chips.) Or we bake them if we have them. That seems to be what they go for even when you cook them a nice meal, anyway. That's my cheating junkfood day though! I let go and have some fun too until they tell christen's mom. Good night, Carrie. If I get lonely, I just send Carter after them. They always love that! (wink) Nothing better than a 3 year old crashing a 14 year old's slumber party! Always funny to see what they come up with the only problem is: if I leave him in there too long they send him out all painted up! What's up w/ that? Either they are trying to tell me something or they have declared war on me! (LOL)
Oh yeah, I know you asked Helen, but I think brownies probably would bake in that p/o. How fun would that be for a sleep over or a birthday party? (any day) Make your own personal sized pizzas and then brownies all outside and Ice cream. I still think that place would be the ultimate bed and breakfast. You could live there, make some extra income and meet a ton of nice families. That would just be so fun! Maybe the h/o would bend the rules if you were very picky with the guest!

And Helen I would have loved to have had a little spy cam on that dog Odie to hear about all the things they are planning next.

And Jimmy yes I can see the lights and know God is the only way for the winner to get this house! And Christmas there would be so wonderful, I imagine a nice fire lit in both fireplaces, stockings hung up and the Christmas tree up with favorite ornaments on it. And you know what everyone could bring a dish & a ($10) gift for a gift exchange, and a merry ol' game of I'll take that, when my turn comes around. That would be alot of fun!

Hi ……….

Well we are off to Chattanooga for the day but before we left we took a ride over on the boat to see what was going on today. Yesterday when we walked over and they were filming on the lakeside, backfilling the retention wall, working on the inside and there were people all over the place. Today they were working on the lakeside filming some work on the landscaping that was being done. We do have a question though – is that a wall in front of the tube permanent or temporary (hope that it is for filming only as it would spoil the view – when we came home last night the view of the moon coming up over the lake was beautiful and you would have been unable to see that with the wall their – Ahmed please answer).

Temperature today is in the 80’s but with no humidity in the air could turned off the air conditioning and opened all the window to let the breeze blow through. The temperature of the water is now in the upper 70’s and like a sheet of glass – great place to water ski. We are back home now and passed the crew on the coming in road as they were leaving the cabin from their day of work – it was about 7:00 p.m. – so it is a really long day for them.

Sally - Retired in Tennessee

Just want to let you know that the pizza oven is wonderful. Looks great. Also how do you enter in the winning of this beautiful cabin. It's going to be a great place when it's finshed.

The Pizza Oven is absolutely beautiful! You guys "Rock"!!! :) Whoever wins this cabin will surely enjoy all the extras that have been included.
The craftsmanship on the wrap around porch is breathtaking! Just imagine sitting out there waiting to see if any deer pass by!
I hope they build window seats upstairs again. Makes such great use of space, turning it into a place you can curl up with a good book. (or end up taking a nap) lol

Dear blogger friends,

First of all, thanks to A. Muse for consolidating all of the blogs asking for recognition for CC and E - great job rounding up all the blogs.

I have been thinking about how to celebrate CabinCraver and Erika on DIY's Blog Cabin TV show and have been quiet up to now because I was unsure how to go about it.

I would vote for a more permanent type of plaque or marker on the property. It doesn't have to be large or flashy just something that will endure. Then, any of us who might find our way to Serenity Shores at some point in time could see it and remember this experience and the part that CabinCraver and Erika played in it.

Let's face it, the TV show will come and go, but a marker would last much longer...maybe even forever? this beautiful home would not exist in its present form without all of us who shared our ideas and feedback.

Thanks for listening to my two cents worth.

Hi Helen Miko!

WOW! Sounds like Matt should have installed a Revolving Door along with that French Door, what with all the friends that come a-callin’ at your place! (WINK) No doubt about it -- The winner/owner is in for a real treat with you as a neighbor.... I nominate you as the official “Hospitality Hostess” for the ‘off-site building team’ family. I cannot think of a better representative to tell the winner/owner about the ‘Cabin Family’ that lived and breathed the place from its beginning. You will do us all proud! (smile)

Sorry I did not get this recipe to you sooner. I did not think of this until late last night (sigh)... Nevertheless, I finally remembered that you posted a request for the recipe for SUNSHINE TEA for your friend and I hope you will pass it on now, with my best regards.

In a large bowl, blend:

½ cup INSTANT TEA (unsweetened)
1 ½ cups GRANULATED SUGAR
1 cup TANG
1 cup LEMONADE MIX (I use Country Time Pink Lemonade Mix)
¼ to ½ Teaspoon CINNAMON (SEE NOTE BELOW)

I use a Wire Wisk—A Slotted Spoon would work well, too. Store the mixture in an airtight container. Use 1 TABLESPOON per 8 ounces of HOT water. Can be served cold, but dissolve mix in a bit of HOT water first, then add cold water and ice. Also makes Great Ice Pops! ENJOY! NOTE: In the Fall, I add a ¼ to ½ teaspoon of Ground Cloves to the mix, along with the Cinnamon. And, as Winter rolls in, a friend of mine uses ½ teaspoon of Pumpkin Pie Spice to replace the Cinnamon and a combination of ¾ cup Brown Sugar and ¾ cup Granulated Sugar (rather than all Granulated) and it is REALLY good after coming in from Ice Skating or Snowman Building with the kiddos. So please feel free to experiment with the add-ons to suit your family’s preferences, and, if you hit upon a real good alternate ingredient, please pass it on to the rest of us ... Thanks!

~~~~~~~~~~~
One Final Question: Do you think giving a copy of the names (of those who think that an episode should be dedicated to CABINCRAVER 2008) to Ahmed, or one of the producers of the show that is out there when the filming is taking place, would help to get the idea into the hands of someone who could make it happen? I could compile a list of all the names of those who have responded and send you a hard copy, or post it and you could cut and paste it and present it to them. What do you think, Helen, good idea or not??????

The cabin's looking amazing! I especially love the stone-work, can't wait to see more.
I'm more of a reader than a commenter, but I think it would be a wonderful idea to make a dedication to CabinCraver. I hope that Scripps takes note of the heartfelt outpourings of it's dedicated fans...

Thanks for the report Sally. I too hope they don't make a permanent wall that blocks the view.

I think a permanent marker for Serenity Shores would be a great idea. It would be a lasting tribute to all that participated.

Thanks A. Muse for the Sunshine Tea recipe. I haven't had that in years and I'm looking forward to making a batch.

WOW! You have outdone all my hopes for this home! Whoever does win it will have truly a fabulous and serene home and yard! You have surpassed great! Anyone will find this home a real "DREAM home!"
The dedication for the lady with cancer is a terrific idea and shows the quality of caring in this blog cabin and it's followers/dreamers and sponsors. This is a home now...not just a house!
Soon hopefully one of us will enjoy it!
yodel in PA

River Media, blog cabin series editors, Watson, or Ahmed

Our bloggers really are concerned for our blogging friend, Cabincraver 2008. We want to do something, extra special for her, to let her know we are thinking about her as she recovers from a very bad illness. We haven't heard from her in a long time. And the last blog we heard from her she was very ill, on bed rest, and she would still sneak out of bed and post us, to get a peek at the cabin she craves. Cabincravers blogs have now stopped coming. In one of her last post she blogged that she had just lost a dear friend to cancer and that she was put to bedrest again.(I'm not too sure exactly what illness she has, possibly it's cancer.) I pray she is ok. We really are worried about her and We all have been pleading for some kind of a surprise for her. The laptop thing hasn't been solved yet. If you read the blogs you will understand that blognbob and others suggested a laptop be donated to her from us, A gift, so she wouldn't have to keep sneaking out of the bed to peek at the blogs and it would give her something to do and keep her on the bedrest she needs. We wish we could hear from her, but we also understand that she is sick and needs healing and recovery and ease of mind is the most important thing for her right now. And we bloggers also understand, that you "blog cabin producers etc." have privacy policies and so forth to follow which prohibited us bloggers to act upon the laptop idea. But we bloggers: have a simple request, that you could make happen for our dear cabincraver 2008.... We (all the bloggers) would really appreciate it if you would consider one of two things for us.

A.Muse one of our blogging friends came up with a beautiful idea:
to just simply put a note up for Cabincraver to see in the beginning of the series when it starts, that we care about her and want to encourage her through this hard time. A simple get well wish. And there also are others like tingoat: who have suggested a small plaque with her name on it somewhere on the blogcabin grounds, Like he said the series will come and go but the plaque possibly could be there on the blog cabin grounds forever. "A happy spot for her think about" cabincraver really loves this blog cabin.
That, would even be a surprise and an uplifting encouragement all in itself for her to see. I want to suggest the idea of the fountain/water feature being the spot with a little plaque on it, if you can't roll the get well wish on the series or in the credits. Maybe just a closeup of her get well wish from the bloggers would be enough to let her know we lift her up in prayers and friendship.
Cabincraver has a funloving and overflowing spirit you can just tell it in her blogs. If you haven't read them. You should! She has mentioned in a few blogs about fishing when she was younger. So with the water feature being in the back facing the lake, seems like the best spot for her the plaque to me.

So it is very important: to all of us bloggers, as you can tell:
that we let her know that we are with her in spirit and wish her well in her illness, as we try to uplift her through our blogcabin friendship.
Thank you all so much for the blog cabin and thank you especially for the chance to interact on blog and in the build.
Thanks for listening!

Please add my name to the list for the dedication for CabinCraver as well. I pray she is doing better and recuperating-- and that is why we haven't heard from her.
As for the list-- I would be more than happy to bring a list over to the producer, but I never know when they will be filming there. Does someone know where we can get some sort of schedule, so I can do that for CabinCraver?

Sally- I agree-- it was an absolutely gorgeous day here yesterday. I was sitting on my deck about 7 last night, and watched a hummingbird feeding from my hummingbird feeder. Then it flew over to the forsithia bush next to my angel garden and proceeded to give itself a shower in the sprinkler I had going to water the flowers there. (And, yes, I was watering the flowers from the lake water.)

To whomever asked about hiring someone to take your trash away-- good luck!!! Nobody comes out here at this time to do that. That's why we truck the stinky stuff ourselves. That's also why most here have at least one car as a pick-up in the family.

And, as for the question about bed and breakfasts-- none of the subdivisions, incuding mine, which is much more liberal, will allow that here.

Carrie-- I love when people visit. In case you haven't figured it out by now, I'm a people person. LOL The family that visited yesterday I hadn't seen in about a year and a half. Liz and her kids are from Wisconsin, and Eileen very recently moved to Erwin, TN, a month or so ago. I hadn't seen Eileen since we moved here, and she is just like a grandmother to me. Liz's youngest, and my Katie, are literally 4 days apart in age.

A. Muse-- thanks for the recipe. I'll copy it down and give it to my friend.

All of you fishermen/women out there-- yestarday, Katie caught 7 fish off of our dock. (Mostly smaller ones.) But, the night before, Matt caught 2 good sized bass off our dock, and Katie caught 2 good sized catfish. BTW-- they were just using common nightcrawlers to catch the fish.

I watch Derek and Dean often and really like their work.They really went all out this time with the Pizza oven and water fountain. I would love to have an outdoor kitchen but will have to wait for now. We want to make a few changes to a couple of rooms first and change th back door entry and build a new patio later.
The water fountain will add a nice background noise but I could see my dogs drinking from it as well as laying in it when it is hot.They would watch it to chase the birds away. Is the fountain center a local rock or man made?

I like Yard Crashers as well. Ahmed do the people think you are crazy or just walk off in some case? How do you have time to do both of these projects and the other stuff you have mentioned? I would let you move in and bring the family if I could get one of those great yards. You really do great work. The first time I saw you was on the first cabin and have tried to see your work from time to time. DIY is lucky to have you on board.

I still would like to know if the outside has been stained or if that is the log color.

It looks like the driveway work has gone to the next step.

I like the ceiling tiles in the man cave. My folks have a natural wood looking tile ceiling. You can not even tell where the grids are or see them. I like that some already have the lights in them. I hope some have the speakers as well.

I was surprised to see the pink insulation and not a foam or blown in material used.The new blown in materials are from recycled materials and don't settle down into the walls like they did years ago. I like foam since it fills every crack and hole plus it is better than a few years ago.

It looks like we have lost a number of our bloggers. Hope they come back to see the two slide shows. I am not crazy about the kitchen colors, seem dark. But again, love what Solid Rock guys did.

I am really concerned that neither Ahmed or Watson have responded in anyway to our questions and suggestions of CabinCraver.
Could either of you at least say "We are checking on the feasability." or "Can't do it." or "Wait and see." Something to say that a robot didn't clear our blogs for posting.

Watson: Hello Linda, we have been following CabinCraver2008 and the related discussion. All I can say now is that her unique situation is being considered and I'll have more for everyone at a later date. I want to thank everyone for their passion and attention and hope to have more for you soon. Best to you.

I too would like to see a dedication to CabinCraver. I pray for her and her family.

Watson
Thanks for the confirmation to LindaL and the rest of us that you guys are considering our ideas for cabincraver2008. :)

Helen
I'm a people person too! (most of the time) Sometimes I'm a bit scatter brained~ or too excited. (lol) I just think that that area is just the prettiest place. This blog cabin beats any of the hgtv dreamhomes (sorry hgtv fans) way out of the water, to me. I do appreciate them too! I have fun and I enjoy the whole process of these homes. The blogs, the discussions and the surprise of the locations, the designs, sponsors, etc. is really exciting.
The blog cabin though hands down, is my favorite one~ it is my dream home and in a location I could be satisfied at. Like I said before it is just the perfect combination of where I grew up and where I live now. It's a real shame they won't allow a b&b on your part of the lake. I'd sure try to visit it if I knew of one there! It's just the perfect place for a relaxing one. But I do understand that most subdivisions or any neighbor probably would question one & wouldn't want one around. Too many strangers and a possible risk in one way or another. Oh well, If you can't~ you can't!
The winner definitely won't be too lonely there, anyway! Family and friends will be coming from far and wide.
Any how I just thought that would be a beautiful way to share the house with others. And help the winner (xx crossing my fingers it's me XX) with the tax & insurance expenses for the first year living there or until they get a good job and settled in. I'm anxious to see if the winner can move away from their current lives for the house. Get out of current homes if they decide to move (with the bad housing market), will they find a job etc. I'm just anxious to see how this blog cabin story ends.. I really hope whoever it is, gets to keep this treasure and is a great neighbor for you guys. I'm glad you guys had a great visit! It's always wonderful to see someone you love! And fun catching up with them. Especially with good treats, company, fishing and a blog cabin to watch in person.
Wow you are so lucky! Keep having fun!

I wanted everyone to know that Misty & Rich's beloved long long time family member dog 'Bubba' went to doggie heaven.
Carrie, Misty wanted me to let you know that she misses you and everyone else, but just needed some time. She wanted to let you know that she will be back soon, perhaps in a few days.
A.Muse, Misty wanted you to know that she agrees with you 100% on the dedication for our Cabincraver2008, and to please add her name to the list.
Misty is tending to her rose garden, veggie and butterfly gardens right now. It's helping her adjust to this sudden change. Misty is a wonderful tenderhearted person, with a great love for people and animals. She has rescused horses, dogs ect. She has amazing stories, that I so wish she would share. The stories would really make great movies! They are very moving and touching. I don't know how many of the family bloggers remember Misty sharing, that she is in a wheel chair now for many years, so everyone, please keep Misty in your thoughts and prayers...She'll be back soon! :-)

THANK YOU WATSON ,
for your affirmation to our request on behalf of CabinCraver. We all care about her and would really like to do something in her behalf. We also care about you and are indebted to you for time and efforts in our behalf.

Guys, The Front Doors look Awesome! Match the dormer window perfectly. Love the color. And the wall and drive are shaping up really nice as well. Glad to see some more gravel. Not sure what you all are doing now? Looks like you're going crazy down there in the parking area.

LET'S SEE SOME SHOCK AND AHMED !
Looks like Ahmed is going to surprize us yet again ,hearing about some landscaping in the works around the back of the house. After seeing just a sample of your work near the ManCave this will be a true inspiration.

DEREK AND DEAN,
YOU GUYS TOTALLY ROCK ! AWESOME PIZZA OVEN AND WATER FEATURE !

Love the Yard Crashers videos! Ahmed, you really come alive when not confined to stills. Sure hope the Blog Cabin is offered this way. Can't get DIY on basic cable, or even expanded basic, so this could be the answer to my predicament (and others', I'm sure!)

A. Muse, thanks for the tea recipe. I copied & pasted it to a word document and savid it in my recipes file as "A. Muse's Sunshine Tea"

Thanks, Watson, for letting us know you guys, too are concerned about trying to get in touch with Cabincraver. We're going to have more peace about the situation now.

It's been a wonderful couple of days over the ridge in WNC. Air conditioning off, windows open, gentle breezes wafting through the house. Makes me feel kinda guilty when I watch the news and see what so many are going through with the floods in the midwest. My thoughts and prayers are with all those who are not enjoying such blessings as those of us in the beautiful Appalachians.

Hi Fellow Bloggers,

First I would like to thank Watson for his response about trying to do something for Cabincraver.

Do I see DOORS on the front of the Log Home? It looks like it in the cabin cam. If it is I like the half moon glass at the top it goes so well with the windows. Great job, of course, you guys just continue to add on and bring it all together.

Helen & Sally I would love to live close enough to just drop by and check on the Blog Cabin. I know you know how blessed you are to be able to live there.

Still praying for Cabincaver and her family.

Baskets of Blessings & Happy Blogging
Joyce

PS This will most likely be my last post until Monday. We are having our family reunion here at my house this weekend and everyone will start arriving tomorrow.

Hi …..

Garbage – the best part about delivering you garbage to the location on Rt. 68 is that the only day you can’t do that is on Wednesday – that is their day off. Ok so you live in Chicago and they only come once a week and you have just had twenty people over the day after they are there – so it sits there for the next week. Here if you are going to town, you have some garbage you put it in the truck or trunk of the car and drop it off and you are done. This is small town living and we wouldn’t have it any other way.

We took a ride over by boat tonight about 7:00 p.m. and Ahmed was the only person their and was busy working on the landscaping on the lake side. Is really looking Great!

Sally – Retired in Tennessee

Hi, sorry I haven't commented in so long. Been helping my aunt move in to her new home. And I would love to see a hot tub right next to the pizza oven in the ground. And can the winner put a dock in?:)

Good day to one and all,

Watson, thanks for letting us know that you have heard our concerns re: CC and E. We will await further info from you.

Watson: Hello Tingoat, yes please stay tuned and everyone have a great weekend.

FYI, Carrie Miracle, I know the name Tingoat can be misleading but, I am a "she", not a "he." It is a long story how the name came about but it goes all the way back to when I first started using email and couldn't remember my sign on name and/or password. Since there is probably no such thing as a "tin goat," when it was suggested to me, I grabbed it and have been using it in one way or another ever since.

Happy first official day of summer, everybody! It will be a momentous summer for somebody out there when they win blog Cabin 2008.

The cabin is looking great !! Whish it could be MINE. The kitchen and appliances are WOW !! Can't say anything but WOW .A good name would be Tennessee Dream Lake Escape Cabin or Tennesse Lullaby Lake Cabin When does the contest begin ? Can't Wait !!

THANK YOU!!!! THANK YOU!!! THANK YOU!!!!!

(EXCLAMATION POINTS and CAPITAL LETTERS are there to demonstrate my/our appreciation of your comment to LindaL on the matter of CABINCRAVER 2008. A little shouting your praises is OK, right?

RE: Comment posted by WATSON to Posted at June 19, 2008 4:11 PM
Watson: ......we have been following CabinCraver2008 and the related discussion. All I can say now is that her unique situation is being considered and I'll have more for everyone at a later date. I want to thank everyone for their passion and attention and hope to have more for you soon. Best to you.

**********************************************
Here is an updated list of the number of posted comments, requesting a dedicated episode and/or mention by Ahmed, and/or some type of permanent acknowledgement for CABINCRAVER 2008. As you can see the number of Bloggers keen on this show of support is increasing daily. It would be a remarkable grand gesture on the part of the SCRIPPS/DIY Network to pay tribute to her remarkable spirit by dedicating that episode to her. Her support of the Blog Cabin remained strong and resolute, even as her mission to fight on become more critical and difficult. Whether she is recovering today, or whether her tenacity to beat the odds has run its valiant course, I believe such recognition would be a treasure for her, and for her family. Moreover....The Dedication of a show as evidence of the fond memories held by many for Cabincraver 2008, a very special 2008 Blog Cabin participant, speaks to the core values of the Scripps Network, too!

1.~~~~~~~~~ Posted by: A. Muse at June 16, 2008 2:32 PM: Dear Watson and Ahmed ....Is there anyway to persuade the producers that the first episode of 2008 Blog Cabin should be dedicated to: CABINCRAVER 2008 As you know, CabinCraver 2008 has played in integral part in this Blog from the very beginning. However, her last post indicated that she was to undergo further surgery in her battle with cancer. There have been no further updates by her or her daughter, Erika, since that comment was posted many weeks ago. Whether CabinCraver 2008 is with us in body, mind, or spirit is unknown. However, her impact upon the “off-site building team” has not diminished, nor have the good thoughts and hopeful intentions that continue to be posted for her by Elders and others in the 2008 “off-site building team” family. It would be a remarkable grand gesture on the part of the SCRIPPS/DIY Network to pay tribute to her remarkable spirit by dedicating that episode to her. Her support of the Blog Cabin remained strong and resolute, even as her mission to fight on become more critical and difficult. Whether she is recovering today, or whether her tenacity to beat the odds has run its valiant course, I believe such recognition would be a treasure for her, and for her family. Moreover....The Dedication of a show as evidence of the fond memories held by many for Cabincraver 2008, a very special 2008 Blog Cabin participant, speaks to the core values of the Scripps Network, too! Can you offer any suggestions as to how this could come to pass? Would sending emails directly to the Scripps Network (that an episode is dedicated to CabinCraver 2008) or posting similar requests here in this Blog be a plausible avenue to travel to see results? Thank you, Watson and Ahmed, for taking the time in your busy day to respond. Thank you to all the other 'off-site building team' family who think recognizing CabinCraver 2008 is this manner a good idea and take the time to follow-up with posts, comments and emails and any ideas/instructions from Watson and Ahmed that will cause this idea to be realized.
2. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~Posted by: Carrie Miracle at June 16, 2008 4:07 PM .... “ I think that dedicating a get well wish to cabincraver from her blogging buddies on the first episode or even in the credits is an incredibly beautiful idea! you are a sweet heart! I second your idea all the way! I do hope and pray that cabincraver is feeling better. I miss her sweet personality! If you are reading these blogs mrs cabincraver just know you are in all our hearts and all our prayers are with you and your family.”
3.~~~~~~~~~~~ Posted by: Heading South at June 16, 2008 4:36 PM: “ I "ditto" you with all you are saying in regards to Cabincraver2008..I hope DIY will certainly takes your request into consideration, knowing that it has been quite sometime since we have heard from Cabincraver2008 or her daughter Erika. This blogging family does have a very sincere concern for Cabincraver, and I personally want to thank you for sharing your thoughts and your idea of a dedication to Cabincraver2008; and like you said with the tenacity she exhibited in contributing to the DIY Blogging Off Site Team inspite of her weaken condition fighting this cancer.....I hope that DIY will incline their ears to your post
4.~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Posted by: BlognBob at June 16, 2008 10:00 PM: Excellent idea with dedicating this cabin in the name of Cabincraver. This way her name and importance to our blogging family will always be remembered. I support your idea 100% percent. Watson, please will you let the DIY powers that be know our desires to make this happen. I know it is important to gather community support to make certain things happen. So, I am will be glad to help you push this one forward”
5.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Posted by: LindaL at June 16, 2008 9:48 PM: “well there are two questions about Cabincraver that haven't been answered by DIY.1. Can we get the episode dedicated? 2. Can we get a site for donations set up?Now I have another question. Is there a way DIY can connect with CabinCraver? Since you have all of our e-addresses maybe you can send a direct e-mail to her home and let her know we are worried about her”
6.~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Posted by: Therese at June 16, 2008 10:01 PM: “Regarding Cabincraver - I work with cancer patients and have lost many friends and learned many lessons on living that I still stumble to weave into my moral fiber. Although I fully realize that there is a thin blue line between hope and denial - I do hope for some happy news regarding cabincraver”.
Posted by: Sandra from Louisiana at June 16, 2008 11:07 PM: “What a wonderful idea to dedicate the first episode to Cabincraver. I don't post much, but do read all of the blog messages. I also have been looking for a message from Cabincraver or her daughter as to how she is doing. She has been an inspiration to all on the blog and has shown all that with determination and faith you can continue to endure. Do you hear us DIY (Watson) we the blog family wish to dedicate the first episode of the 2008 Blog Cabin to Cabincraver who we all have been privileged to have in our lives.” Keep the prayers going.
7.~~~~~~~~~ Posted by: Keight at June 16, 2008 11:50 PM: “The idea of dedicating one of the episodes to Cabincraver 2008 is sheer genius!Thank you so much for offering this suggestion. I hope everyone does all they can to encourage the network to incorporate it into the show. There has been such an outpouring of prayers and wishes for so many in need of a little extra care and concern during this Blog. The discussions as to how to let Cabincraver and her family know that the 'off-site building team' is committed to seeing them through their difficult journey has continued even when the posts from them have stopped. I know what you are referring to as I have seen other programs on TV that run a 'Dedication Message' as the credits are rolling. It would be an extraordinary way to highlight the spirit of community (that develops among DIY Bloggers) for the Scripps Network. Watson and/or Ahmed ..... Any chance you can help us figure out how to get the dedication thing to happen? “
8.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Posted by: Jenn at June 17, 2008 12:03 AM: “I want to add my name to the petition to have the first 2008 Blog Cabin episode Dedicated to Cabincraver. Any news yet as to how we can get the idea to the people in charge of the program content ~~~ Watson? Ahmed? “

9.~~~~~~~~~~~~ Posted by: KateByTheLake at June 17, 2008 12:25 AM: “I think the dedication idea for Cabincraver 2008 is great? Is there a petition or an email address to send the request in care of so that the program people can work it in at the end of the first show?”
10.~~~~~~~~~~~~ Posted by: Barbara Turner at June 17, 2008 4:53 AM: “I agree that some kind of mention of Cabincraver2008 should be made... if not a dedication... then Ahemd could explain how the Bloggers voted & discussed the things the cabin needed and that one of the Bloggers was fighting Cancer... and that the Bloggers (from across the US...sent well wishes to her) and that she loved blogging.. to the point of trying to keep in touch even when the Dr. ordered bedrest....and we haven't heard how she is doing since her surgery.. and everyone sends their Love... Know you can't say prayers on TV.... so say we send our Love and Best Wishes to Cabincraver2008 from TexasTexan in Okie land

11.~~~~~~~~~~~ Posted by: Connie at June 17, 2008 8:58 AM: “I agree wholeheartedly with you about dedicating a show to our dear Cabincraver 2008 and Erika. But, if that never comes to pass, I know I (and most of the other bloggers) would, if we win, find some way to memorialize our dear old friends. A bronze plaque at that water feature (which I am sure will be a beautiful place for meditation and prayer)seems just about perfect.”
12.~~~~~~~~~~ Posted by: Jimmy at June 17, 2008 10:44 AM: “Watson: I believe everyone would favor a recognition for Cabincraver, whatever her current condition might be, for her contribution to the 2008 Blog Cabin. If nothing else at least a text only recognition(perhaps quotes of her positive contributions to this years, 2008 BLOG CABIN). Whatever can be done would certainly be appreciated by her and her family?? Thank You for all your efforts. Jimmy at Waldo/06/17/2008”
13.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Posted by: Joyce at June 17, 2008 1:38 PM: “I agree with what everyone has mention about Cabincraver 08. I miss her in put, love, humor and strength. I would love to hear from her, if possible, or her daughter Erika, and I know we would all feel blessed just to hear from them.”
Additions as of 18 June .....
14.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Posted by: Susan (from OH) at June 17, 2008 3:51 PM “Count me in...I want to add my name to the petition as well, to have the first 2008 Blog Cabin episode Dedicated to Cabincraver. Any news yet as to how we can get this idea into action?~~~ Watson/Ahmed please follow up on this... Maybe if we all sign a petition listing our email addresses you can submit it to the right person in charge! If this is acceptable, please place a link on the Blog Cabin site! Thank you for your help, as we know you've got so much to handle already...But to us "off~site builders", this is a really big concern... We've all become one big family here...when one hurts, we all hurt! When one needs Prayer, we all Pray! and if one needs help, we all want to be there for them!
15. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Posted by: Dottie NY at June 17, 2008 9:45 PM: “Hi everyone The dedication to Cabincraver is a wonderful idea add my name to the list I do not see why it could not be done they dedicate shows to people all the time and she is an inspiration to us all. The cabin is so great it just keeps getting better and better The winner is going to be one very lucky person
16.~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Posted by: Nancy at June 18, 2008 12:53 PM: “I agree .... about honoring Cabincraver. That would be an awesome idea if someone can pull it off.

17.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Posted by: Tingoat at June 19, 2008 7:25 AM: “Dear blogger friends,I have been thinking about how to celebrate CabinCraver and Erika on DIY's Blog Cabin TV show and have been quiet up to now because I was unsure how to go about it. I would vote for a more permanent type of plaque or marker on the property. It doesn't have to be large or flashy just something that will endure. Then, any of us who might find our way to Serenity Shores at some point in time could see it and remember this experience and the part that CabinCraver and Erika played in it. Let's face it, the TV show will come and go, but a marker would last much longer...maybe even forever? this beautiful home would not exist in its present form without all of us who shared our ideas and feedback. Thanks for listening to my two cents worth.

18.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Posted by: Kacy at June 19, 2008 11:50 AM: “I think a permanent marker for Serenity Shores would be a great idea. It would be a lasting tribute to all that participated.
19.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Posted by: yodel in PA at June 19, 2008 1:38 PM “The dedication for the lady with cancer is a terrific idea and shows the quality of River Media, blog cabin series editors, Watson, or Ahmed
20.~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Posted by: Carrie Miracle at June 19, 2008 2:14 PM:” Our bloggers really are concerned for our blogging friend, Cabincraver 2008. We want to do something, extra special for her, to let her know we are thinking about her as she recovers from a very bad illness. We haven't heard from her in a long time. And the last blog we heard from her she was very ill, on bed rest, and she would still sneak out of bed and post us, to get a peek at the cabin she craves. Cabincravers blogs have now stopped coming. In one of her last post she blogged that she had just lost a dear friend to cancer and that she was put to bedrest again.(I'm not too sure exactly what illness she has, possibly it's cancer.) I pray she is ok. We really are worried about her and We all have been pleading for some kind of a surprise for her. The laptop thing hasn't been solved yet. If you read the blogs you will understand that blognbob and others suggested a laptop be donated to her from us, A gift, so she wouldn't have to keep sneaking out of the bed to peek at the blogs and it would give her something to do and keep her on the bedrest she needs. We wish we could hear from her, but we also understand that she is sick and needs healing and recovery and ease of mind is the most important thing for her right now. And we bloggers also understand, that you "blog cabin producers etc." have privacy policies and so forth to follow which prohibited us bloggers to act upon the laptop idea. But we bloggers: have a simple request, that you could make happen for our dear cabincraver 2008.... We (all the bloggers) would really appreciate it if you would consider one of two things for us. one of our blogging friends came up with a beautiful idea: to just simply put a note up for Cabincraver to see in the beginning of the series when it starts, that we care about her and want to encourage her through this hard time. A simple get well wish. And there also are others like tingoat: who have suggested a small plaque with her name on it somewhere on the blogcabin grounds, Like he said the series will come and go but the plaque possibly could be there on the blog cabin grounds forever. "A happy spot for her think about" cabincraver really loves this blog cabin. That, would even be a surprise and an uplifting encouragement all in itself for her to see. I want to suggest the idea of the fountain/water feature being the spot with a little plaque on it, if you can't roll the get well wish on the series or in the credits. Maybe just a closeup of her get well wish from the bloggers would be enough to let her know we lift her up in prayers and friendship. Cabincraver has a funloving and overflowing spirit you can just tell it in her blogs. If you haven't read them. You should! She has mentioned in a few blogs about fishing when she was younger. So with the water feature being in the back facing the lake, seems like the best spot for her the plaque to me. So it is very important: to all of us bloggers, as you can tell: that we let her know that we are with her in spirit and wish her well in her illness, as we try to uplift her through our blogcabin friendship.
Thank you all so much for the blog cabin and thank you especially for the chance to interact on blog and in the build.

21.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Posted by: Helen Miko at June 19, 2008 2:57 PM “Please add my name to the list for the dedication for CabinCraver as well. I pray she is doing better and recuperating-- and that is why we haven't heard from her.
As for the list-- I would be more than happy to bring a list over to the producer, but I never know when they will be filming there. Does someone know where we can get some sort of schedule, so I can do that for CabinCraver?
22.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Posted by: LindaL at June 19, 2008 4:11 PM
“I am really concerned that neither Ahmed or Watson have responded in anyway to our questions and suggestions of CabinCraver. Could either of you at least say "We are checking on the feasability." or "Can't do it." or "Wait and see." Something to say that a robot didn't clear our blogs for posting.
Watson: Hello Linda, we have been following CabinCraver2008 and the related discussion. All I can say now is that her unique situation is being considered and I'll have more for everyone at a later date. I want to thank everyone for their passion and attention and hope to have more for you soon. Best to you.

THANKS AGAIN FOR CONSIDERING OUR SUGGESTIONS.....

Connie, I really meant to say in my letter to River Media, I want to suggest the water feature as you had originally suggested. It was such a great idea, Connie really, I'm sorry I didn't give you credit in the letter. I really meant to.

Noel B
The storms from the other day were pretty gentle, compared to some that have marched through these Ky hills, even with the hail, in the first round. The strange thing was it knocked out my tv, internet and phone the next day, (LOL)~ "I thought I was gonna die from not getting my bc, ocd fix", But I managed to get by the whole day, until 7pm. (Ahhh!~ Now I get why Carter was shaking my head off the other day~ I was in a bc trance! (HEE HEEE!). I couldn't figure out why the net was out, most of the bad storms stayed to the eastern counties, several from us. Never did get an explanation. Except, I know several on my street were out too! The problem was at one of the other neighbors houses a couple streets away, "what did they do?" (J/K) At least that's where we could see the work going on at.
I just wanted to let you know we face north too and I absolutely love storm watching. I get a little nervous w/ the ligntning but I still like to watch out the window or front screen door. I can almost always tell when it's gonna rain, w/o the weather forecast. The breeze starts to pick up, a little or alot. I love it when the trees, start to swirl or circle, in the winds, I call this " it's gonna rain dance." If you look close at the leaves they almost curl upward, begging for that drink of the heavenly waters(rain). Then I can see the gray clouds start their march towards me and the skies start to darken. Before too long we may hear the boom of the thunderclouds or the lightning, warry skies starts to throw spears of power towards us. Sending a scary but thrilling chill up our spines. And before we know it, it's over and the birds start to sing again and the earth quietens it's glowing after it's cleansing, refreshing rains, & winds. We, here, for some reason during most of the sunnier storms have a rainbow spot, to the East of us. (right side of the house). Toward the city. It's almost always in nearly the same spot. Just amazing to me. I'ts also funny when the worms start coming out and crossing the road, the birds dive in for a snack. It's kind of gross when walking, but so funny & strange at the same time to see. They mostly do this in the evenings, when it's darker. I and our dog have unfortunately accidently squished a few worms on our potty trips at bed time. Did you see that moon last night. It was so bright and full with a glowing halo around it. Just the most beautiful thing I've seen in a while.

Hey All!

I should be outside trying to stave off the attack of the weeds in my yard that come from the wetlands/woods behind me. Yet here I sit reading the blogs. I just had to see what was happening w/the blogging side of my family.

I think a perenial garden down by the lakeside with a brass or copper tribute on a boulder, lit by a solar uplight, would be a lasting and beautiful way to honor Cabincraver. Everyone going by would not only see a beautiful garden but also know who it was in honor of.

The pizza oven was such a wonderful surpise! Now wouldn't a built in grill with a small sink and an under the counter small fridge just be the cats meow attached to it?

I loved the mini garden outside the man cave door. What a sweet surprise that was. I can't wait to see where they put the water feature. The sound of trickling water is always so calming for some reason.

The kitchen appliances had me drooling in no time flat. I just love the countertops and the metalic looking brick over the stove. If I am blessed enough to win, the wall over the backsplash is going to be cobalt blue. That color will show off the natural wood of the cabin and add some much needed color.

This cabin is gorgeous!!! I cannot say enough kudo's to Ahmed, Watson and the crew building the home. It truly is a Dream Home.

We had a few storms come through and a tornado was part of em. I was blessed to get my power back at the end of the first day, others were not so blessed. Our friends just got thier power back after ten days. It looks a little surreal around here. Hundred year old oak trees were laying around like twigs. Workers from surrounding states came in to help our guys deal with the devastation. Oddly enough the robin stayed right outside the window in the way overgrown bush thats as tall as a young tree. Well now that the roof is fixed and the repair man won't be here until tomorrow for the fride, I have no excuses. Time to weed. Take care, stay safe and God Bless everyone!

DIY: I would like to reiterate the desire of having a show dedicated to CabinCraver. I miss her posts. She has been an integral part of this community and there is much concern for her at this time. I hope we hear from her or Erika soon...

Love the new slide shows. Still trying to catch up on the blog. Kind of hectic around here lately and haven't had much computer time or energy.

Fellow bloggers, my wish is for you to have a safe, happy summer! Will try to catch up some more later. :)

Hi all,
I'm sitting here with tears in my eyes as I read of all the concern and caring for a fellow blogger and her daughter. It's wonderful to know that this world is full of such caring & consideration.Thank you Watson for listening to all of the blogger comments/requests.

The cabin is truly awesome. I spent all afternoon going thru the video's, amazed at all the wonderful additions. I agree that the pizza oven, fountain and gardens are fantastic. Thanks to all!

Smiles...Kathy R.

Hello Watson, Ahmed, and all of you Bloggers,
I know I am at a time in my life where I am trying to slow down to a crazed pace, (versus a frantic one), and take time to smell the Roses and experience each moment more fully. Whatever is going on though, I have to tell you that the exterior photos of Serenity Shores brought tears to my eyes! The reality of the beauty of the cabin is so evident, as is the expert craftsmanship, care, attention to detail, commitment and love that has gone into creating this breathtaking place.
I'm sure everyone can feel it. I think that is why we all feel so strongly that a dedication to Cabincraver would be so appropriate. Serenity Shores is a very special place. It has created such feelings of positive emotions and love...and it isn't even finished yet!
Of course Scripps Network has a tough job ahead. I am sure they would love to honor Cabincraver and the blogging family by granting our request, but I realize how difficult and "politically challenging" this is.
So as others have said, we are available to help with whatever it takes to help this dedication become a reality. And if it is not possible for Scripps, then we as the Blog Cabin Family can come up with something special! I am sure that just being part of this great community has helped Cabincraver as she travels one of life's toughest journeys.
I can't wait to watch the new Blog Cabin episodes. It will be so exciting, especially after being a part of the voting and blogging community.
Thanks again to all who are working so hard on the cabin, and keeping us laughing and entertained too!
Gail

WATSON: THANK YOU VERY MUCH!!! And please thank the other DIY people involved in considering something for CabinCraver.

Misty, sorry to hear about your loss. I still haven't gotten over losing my Rascal cat. I had her almost 21 years. So take time in the garden and plant a tree or something for your long time companion. I planted a red Maple and it is doing very well.

Since I am sure my "good luck" runs in other venues and I won't win the log home, I hope I can come visit Helen and Sally someday. There are many other bloggers I would like to meet too. If you all want to come to MN I would be glad to host a party. Hotel within a block, public swimming beach is half a block from the hotel, and I have lots of grass to pitch tents on or to park an RV (or ten). No outdoor kitchen but an old fashion block fireplace with an old grate for cooking beans and corn and walleye and wild rice. I have a nice lake view (actually I can see two lakes and the Mississippi from my house).
So come north. I would love to meet you.
Hint to DIY: it would be a great place to build a dream green home.lol :-) LLL

Heading South
Thanks for letting me know Misty is ok. Please tell our dear friend we are so sorry about her pet"baby" bubba. I know pets are alot like our babies. I have me a 12 year old dog and I dread the day we loose him.
Tingoat sorry I assumed you are a man. I loved the plaque idea.

Paul Ryan, Great job guys on the cabinets: I could use that nice cutting board, myself. I love the fact you recycled old flooring scraps for it. I would like to know all who walked upon it and where the wood came from. I like the story behind recycled pieces. I enjoyed the kitchen video. What situations you cabinet guys get yourselves into. My husband could trade some really funny stories with you on that one all day long, I'm sure. He's in the cabinet industry too. That's just one drive you crazy part of the daily life for you cabinet gurus.

And guys I don't know how I did it but I missed the front doors, I was so focused on all the stuff laying everywhere on the front and around the sides of the cabin, to even notice, the front doors.

Wow, wow, wow! Thank you so much for those new photos. Everything looks so beautiful and amazing it is just incredible to think that someone is going to win this awesome home. Maybe Blog Cabin 2009 can be built in a neighborhood/subdivision that would allow transients -- not bums but bloggers! Instead of givng the house to one winner it can be a gift to all. WE can take turns using it for the weekend or weekdays. Every blogger gets a number assigned and a sort of lotto is done to see who gets what days! A true cabin for all!

I also want to add my name to the list for supporting the idea of dedicating an episode to CabinCraver and Erika. Hope things get better for her soon.

The kitchen is gorgeous...the winner of this wonderful home will be a very lucky person.

Ahmed/Watson: Perhaps a copper (metal) plate...very small...on the railing of the porch with: Cabincraver 2008 embossed or engraved on it.
The winner can run their hand over it and remember the wonderful blogs & information that Cabincraver & Erika posted. She & Erika certainly touched our hearts. Prayers for her and her family that everyone is o.k.
The copper would age to a great patina and still not be garish.

Thanks for the slide show. Beautiful...

Carrie Miracle: My goodness, don't worry about it! I kinda think we all thought of the water feature plaque at about the same time, anyway.

Lynne, so glad you are safe & help is on the way. Weeding???? At a time like this?

You are making me ashamed of the excuses I come up with all the time for not weeding. I'm just waiting for someone to come ambush me at the local garden center. It would take a real pro to rescue the tiny fenced patio area of my townhome!

Bless you all and I'll be praying for all of you, especially for those who will not be able to go to church this morning.

Cadconnie

Hi Everyone,

Sorry I have not been blogging although I have been reading all the comments. This is a really busy time of year for me both at work and home. Strawberry season so it means picking lots of strawberries and freezing them in my spare time!!!

A. Muse I love the idea about recognizing Cabincraver on one of the shows and maybe putting a memorial on the property for her. She has been with us since the beginning and though her illness took her away from blogging at the end I think this would be a nice way to thank her and let her know that she is in all of our thoughts and prayers. Since this is "The Blog Cabin" I think it would be unwise for DIY and the Scripps Network not to do something like this especially since it is coming from the rest of the Bloggers!! After all without us they do not have a network now do they????

I was surprised to see the concrete wall by the garage. I don't know about anyone else but personnally I think this looks heinous and feel it is more of a danger than anything else! It's bad enough that there is not enough room to get into the garage now there is a cement wall to prevent you from getting out of the garage. The posts for the upper porch will not last long thta is for sure. It would have been better if there was no garage and this space was used for something else. At least it would have been nice to have it look like the fence in the front of the house then a plain, ugly cement wall. Nothing says stay out to your neighbors then a cement wall.

Hope everyone is well. I am sure with schools letting out that everyone is now looking forward to summer vacations - hope all have some fun things planned to do. My husband and I will be waiting for October to take our vacation and are looking at going to North Carolina with various stops along the way. But every time we talk about where to go it seems to change! lol We started off with going mining in the western part of the state but now we are looking at the coast line so who knows where we will end up!!! Maybe we will just get in the car and drive and end up where ever.

Cabincraver and Erika as always you are in my daily thoughts and prayers.

Take care all.

Erin
Take care all.

To begin with I love how the cabin is coming out, The pizza ovens what a great idea, I'm already picturing myself making pizza with friends and family and having wine and the kids playing in the lake. Whoever wins this Cabin is a very lucky person.

I'm a cancer survivor going on 5 yrs and my prayers are going to Cabincraver and her family

I agree completely about a dedication for Cabincaver2008! I was glad to see that Watson is listening and trying to work it out. Whether DIY does a dedication when it airs or not, we will all be thinking about her and giving our own dedication.

I just have to say that the pictures were fabulous! It makes my dream of winning even stronger than before. Pizza Oven, water feature, and that wonderful little garden area outside of the Man Cave, make this even better than I had hoped.

As Cabincraver2008 would say "May the worthiest blogger win".

Lynne
Thank God you and (the robin) are safe. Prayers go out to you and all the storm victims out there!

Hi folks. Looks like we have a front door on the cabin as of Saturday. Nice hemisperical windows to match the house too.

I hope all is well with my blogging friends. We're all fine and, at last, the rivers around here crested last Friday. According to the DNR they should be down to 'normal' flood stage in 3-4 weeks and 'normal' summer levels by mid August. We're all hoping that we do get a little rain occasionally throughout the summer to save the remaining crops from dying of thirst but no more deluges please. Some folks still have houses submerged and whole towns are deeply flooded weeks after the rain stopped.

Hi …..

It has been a busy week for the DIY Cabin. They were here filming all week as well as, putting in all three bathrooms, getting the appliances in place, landscaping the lake side with the fire pit and plants and an interview with the Chattanooga Times Frees Press article in the Friday, 6/20/08 paper (great picture and lots of info www.timesfreepress.com).

We walked over on Saturday and had a chance to visit with Ahmed while he was working on his landscaping. It is all coming together very nicely with the fire pit and seating area. He was called in to do some filming with Amy – so we left again to continue our walk. Round trip from home is about 2.5 miles so we really get our exercise and a beautiful views along the way.

Yesterday we took off again to get our exercise early in the day before it was to hot. There was no one in the house so we took a top to bottom look. Very nice – lets see where should I start – at the top or the bottom. OK the top…… Both the bathrooms are now in, one with a shower and the other with a tub and they have even wall papered one of them. The bedrooms on the second floor are awaiting work.

On the first floor in the kitchen all the appliances are now in and look great. You had a look at them last week and now to seem them in place they really are something – is a real neat kitchen. The mantel is now in place, very impressive and I like the way it was put up. In the master bathroom all is now in place and is something to see with it all put together. Each bathroom in the house is different.

In the basement there have been some changes as well, floor, cabinets, sink (with paw prints), chests, and man cave as well. Their isn’t much that seems to be missing at this point. We can now see it all coming together from where it started and it is really impressive.

The deer were in the area again today.

Sally - Retired in Tennessee

Hello Everyone! I'm still here in the background of the Blog. I pry for news of CabinCarver, do think some recognition of her is appropriate.
I think Carrie has expressed my thoughts on all the truly fabulous additions perfectly. I amvery excited to know the landscaping will be coming soon. Ahmed I love my flower beds and will be expecting to learn from you. So lots of info. Please. Blessings to CabinCarver and her family. Bonnie

c

Greetings to all,

I am running a little late today, but it was fun catching up on all the weekend blogs.

Sally, thanks for sharing all the progress at the cabin...it is wonderful to hear about! I would love to see some new slides of the bathrooms, mantelpiece, etc. By the way, did you see anything "extra" that the DIY team might have done for the winner? I am curious as to whether or not there is/will be any special touches we haven't heard about or voted on.

I am off to NY State for one of the grandkids high school graduation and to see my 99 year old mother in Buffalo. Have a great first week of summer, everyone!

Sally,
Thanks for letting me know about the article in the Chattanooga Times. We only get the Sunday paper from them. It was a nice article. Next time you guys are going to take a walk, give me a call, and I'll meet you. (We're in the book.) Did you get the DSL they are putting in? I was looking into it on Friday, and it's MUCH cheaper than what we have now. (By about $50 a month!!!) Now, we just have to wait for the sewers to come down the street.

Clive- I'm happy to hear things are settling down there in Wisconsin. I'll pray for no more flooding issues to come your way.

Misty-- I hope you are doing better. I know how difficult it is to lose your pet. I lost my CinderLou (14 yrs. old) almost 2 years ago, and my 15 year old cat, Halloween, is not doing well either. When you lose a pet, it is like losing a member of the family. Our 1 yr. old dog, Krypto, just had his 1 yr. check-up & shots this morning. He is doing well.

Dear Watson Hawkins...

This is only the second time I have posted a comment for your approval, and I would be the first to admit I am not among those that make up the prominent 2008 Blog Cabin “off-site building team” family that has developed over the months. However, even though I do not consider myself in the same league as these dedicated contributors, I have read with great interest the outpouring of support for CabinCraver 2008.

I would like to present for your consideration, an observation I have made concerning this group....

The most amazing thing about all of these heartfelt appeals is that NOT ONE OF THESE BLOGGERS ever seeks recognition for themselves, even though I have read that many in the “off-site building team" family face each day with lives altered by illness, disabilities, personal and financial hurdles, or other major issues. Yet, these individuals have once again spoken with one voice that seeks the “spotlight”, not for their own illumination, but rather, as a tool to bring into focus the contributions and needs of another, now absent from their group.

Mr. Hawkins:
I agree that dedicating an episode to Cabincraver 2008 is a magnificent way to reach out to her and her daughter and her immediate family to show the continued support of her “extended family”. I would also like to suggest that if a plaque or similar method of a permanent marker is to be placed on the 2008 Blog Cabin Property, it should be one that Commemorates the dedication and memory of the entire, amazing “2008 Blog Cabin “Off-site building team” as well.

I am certain that many of the group, especially those who are oftentimes referred to as the “elders” will be somewhat embarrassed by the thought of any special recognition. None have ever seemed to flaunt their knowledge, but offered it gladly, simply because it was relevant. They have also been quick to drift slightly from “Cabin Only Content” whenever a Blogger’s post signaled a need of some encouragement or relief from their daily journey. The posts have all been exceptional. I extend a most sincere THANK YOU to each and every “off-site building team” member ---- you have taken my hand, opened my mind, and touched my soul. As I see it, you all deserve to be in the Spotlight, and applauded for your contributions to one of the most exceptional Homebuilding and Remodeling Blog experiences on the internet to date.

As you present all the comments to the Scripps Network and the DIY Blog Cabin Program Designers, I sincerely hope you will add the thoughts of an interested observer to the mix: The 2008 Blog Cabin experience is truly an unprecedented exchange of ideas and values among a group that enlightened and inspired with every post. The winner and subsequent owners of the dwelling should know the WHOLE history of this grand build and of the ALL the people who contributed to the loving spirit that will forever reside within.
Thank You Watson Hawkins for considering the relevance of this post.

What a group this truly is! Dedicating an episode to Cabincraver 2008 is a very good idea. So often there are dedications of shows for those views don't know. And...as a viewer, I never think anything of it...except ... how thoughtful! This appears to be one of those occasions.

My goodness...I looked at more of the photos and am just awestruck to this cabin and its many features. I have a brother who has framed many homes. He always boasts what satisfaction he feels in seeing a home that he has worked on. Kudos to this team!

PS....I have looked into viewing DIY in our area. We do have this station BUT not with the channels we receive...so this is as close as it gets for me. TY for putting these images and the videos onto this site so we can see this.

B.J. Thank you for your post on behave of our Cabincraver2008. Even though you have not posted as regularly as alot of the blogging family "off site building team", you have taken the time to read and be with us in spirit with this wonderful Blog Cabin project. Reading the subjective and objective comments are so interesting. With each new option for the Blog Cabin, it amazes me how two people can look at the same thing and see it differently. What a joy it is to learn from each other. With that said, you are most certainly in my books, a part of this blogging family, carrying with you a desire for a dedication for Cabincraver2008. So I would like to thank you for your contribution in this endeavor. With life's daily challenges that surrounds each and every one of us, it is good to live in the moment and smell the roses as some may say. So many people think anxiously about the future; and forget the present. Cabincraver2008 is forever present with us in thought and prayer. Again B.J. my sincere thanks, and perhaps with your post DIY, Watson, Scripps Network will consider this desire that we all have.

Oh My Goodness, Where to start? Everything is coming together so fast and is so beautiful. All of it ! Thank You for giving us the wonderful sliders to darken the Man Cave. They fit perfectly with everything. The Garage floor is perfect. The cabinets and doggy washing station are wonderful. The Power shower is amazing. The Kitchen is absolutely to die for . I was first surprized to see the Pro Series Range . Then Shocked to learn it is actually a gas range. WOW ! It all looks so beautiful. I almost hate to comment because I know I will forget something with all that is going on.

Ahmed,
It is so nice to see you in your true element. And of course, you are truly creating a masterpiece as was stated. I would love to see a list of all the different plants and flora that you are gracing this beautiful home with. Or better yet, a diagram with the names of all the plants. But I know that is a big request as busy as you are. I also understand you are maximizing the parking space by building the retaining wall within the closest edge of the property line. I hope you might consider some angle iron for the corners of each of those three posts near the garage. Making it decorative and functional shouldn't be too hard. And I love how you used the boulders around that gorgeous firepit. There is almost too much to take in all at once. The wall might look good with those railroad ties someone had mentioned before. Or made into a giant planter box or living wall of plants somehow. You guys are the best! Thank You so Much!

Clive,
Glad to hear from you again and that you and your family are well. I take it you aren't going to be back porch fishing. A good thing I believe!

Hi all! Katie and I just came back from checking out the blog home. I stopped at the Lakefront Estates Office to see if it was ok if Katie and I went inside, but nobody was there. (Lisa-- I hope you don't mind, but Katie's been wanting a Lakefront Estates drink container like you gave out at the Open House. I hope it's ok if we took one of the ones set up on the welcome table there. Now, she'll hopefully leave mine alone. LOL)
So, Katie and I went down to stroll around the outside of the house. After seeing the new slide shows, I just couldn't resist. The front door really looks great (although Katie and I still disagree on the front steps-- I like them, she doesn't. Who said it's just the bloggers that disagree.) We walked around the house, and saw there was a spot on the side of the porch that doesn't have steps yet. It would be a perfect place for a handicapped ramp. Maybe that's what they were thinking of. Then we went around back to check out the flowers and bushes.

Ahmed-- are those blueberry bushes planted there? And, is that periwinkle or myrtle planted as the ground cover?

It really looks beautiful up close too. I can imagine how fantastic it would look like by next spring when everything has had a chance to grow a bit more. I think Katie and I got there right after the sprinkler had finished watering the flowers. The flip flop footprints in the mud you see will be Katie and mine. We both loved the pizza oven-- and I was surprised to see it is run by propane. Our friend's oven down the street is run by wood. We also love the patio where the fire pit is too. We noticed that someone had already tried out the fire pit too. I hope you roasted some marshmallows while it was burning. Then we went around the garage side to leave. (I still say my old buick would never make that swing.) As we were about to go back up the driveway, Katie noticed a muddy area where a puddle had been, and wrote our initials in it too. (She's 11-- need I say more?) We didn't go in, as I didn't want to enter without permission. I figured if they have all of those appliances in there now, there might be an alarm. And, I didn't want to do any explaining to the police. LOL So, there's our update?

How do you access the pizza oven? Seems like you have to go around the whole house, carrying items from the kitchen, to get to the pizza oven. Am I missing something?

Got it figured out! That "concrete wall" is really plywood painted to look like concrete. Bet someone accidentally knocked part of it down on the 18th, & they had to park that truck in the way. It is probably blocking something really gorgeous Ahmed is doing from the view of the Cabin Cam.
Sally & Helen, are you sworn to secrecy? Is it the firepit? Perhaps the water feature?
Glad to hear the water has crested.
Cadconnie

First off
All I can say is I'm in bc heaven! I'm so SE&CHI! And I'm loving the whole thing! The front doors are so handsome, with the heavy wood, & the little half circle windows matching the windows in the peaks. Nice choice! I still want to see either built in benches at the side railing or two matching log benches on that entrance porch. So people will take off those muddy shoes. What a great kitchen with all those nice appliances and storage. What an awesome relaxing gorgoeus backyard,
(AHMED & others)
I love everything so far and that stump, I look forward to seeing what you do with it. I have always been so fascinated with the artful structures that comes from tree roots on their own. I really don't understand why so many of them get burned and chipped. This bc place is so awesome, it has it all, home theater, Please tell me you are putting a slip cover on that white couch. Kids and movies, games and food, means spills. Slipcover please! The power showers, interesting bamboo, I always thought it was very light. I like the contrast in the dark and light floor. I love the decks,patios, grills, great indoor and outdoor areas, that firepit spot overlooking the lake is another fun reading spot. That garage is nice, Cool tool storage! Will there be a cool toys surprise in those? For the diyer's and awesome, a power shower(dog wash) station for the pets, really cool.
Guys, Don't pinch me, I don't want to wake up from this dream anytime soon. I so hope whoever wins will really appreciate and love this place and be able to keep it.

Clive I'm sorry about your friends and neighbors, I wish them all well and pray those flood areas dry up sooner than planned.

Watson
I have an idea that might be fun for the winner of the blogcabin. Make an album/ scrapbook/ journal for the new homeowner. You could have hosts, guests and workers of the blog cabin to write little stories about their bc experience, online and in person, share their special memories there or make drawings/ share personal photos in a scrapbook for the homeowner. Also please leave them a copy of the blog cabin series, plus the out takes viewers won't get to see and then a copy of the blog itself. Just simply print off the whole blog for them and have the print off bound into a book for them to read some day. Not that the majority of us bloggers haven't already read (the blog) or been part of the story in one way or another. Most will view the series as well. But never the less, it's part of the story. Like others have said this home is special in a unique way that most homes are not. It was built by the diy ~world. From virtual reality(blog) to real world reality. This house has a life of it's own. And this heritage should never be forgotten and should be shared with future generations.

Ahmed,you and "all" are doing just a beautiful job....THANK YO