When Anne and Fritz Kettling decided to build their dream home on an island in Canada, they weren’t willing to compromise. “If I can’t build on this spot, I don’t want to build at all”, Fritz told someone who was […]
Continue ReadingQUALITY & MORALITY: Build Unto Others As You Would Have Them Build for You
If you do anything at all creative with your hands, you need to understand an idea I call “the challenge of a thousand decisions”. From moment to creative moment we’re all faced with decisions – many of them small – […]
Continue ReadingLILAC LESSONS: Steve’s Lilacs Finally Flourish
Sometimes the smallest things in life can make a big difference. Steve’s 20+ year struggle with failing lilacs tells the story.
Continue ReadingHOW-TO STACK FIREWOOD: Round Piles Offer Big Advantages
UPDATED 17Aug2018: After more than 20 years of stacking firewood in square or linear piles, I discovered that stacking in round piles is not only easier and more stable, it’s also far more attractive. I’ve been doing it now for more than […]
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WINTERIZING WATER SYSTEMS: Simple System Is 100% Reliable
Dealing with a seasonal water system may be the least enjoyable part of owning a lakeside home or rural getaway, but it doesn’t have to be this way. The frustration and uncertainty endured draining water pipes in the fall and […]
Continue ReadingSUCCESS & FAILURE: How “Personal RPM” Affects Your Life
When people ask me what I do for a living, the conversation usually goes like this . . . I explain that for 20+ years I’ve supported my wife and five kids family with a combination of digital work and […]
Continue ReadingRUSTIC, MAINTENANCE-FREE SIDING: A Close Look at One Option
When it comes to exterior siding for homes and cottages in rural locations, it’s not easy to find a durable option that works visually. For some of us at least, choices such as vinyl or aluminum siding simply look too […]
Continue ReadingRURAL LIFE SKILLS THAT MATTER: A Dozen Tips for Water Wells, Septic Systems, Electricity & Food
Water wells, septic systems, electricity supplies and food storage – these are four of the biggest things you need to deal with directly if you’re a hands-on person leading a hands-on rural life. And success is often based on specific […]
Continue ReadingTHE BAILEY LINE ROAD CHRONICLES: Chapter 11 – Tractor, Stones & Social Scenes
This is chapter 11 in my book The Bailey Line Road Chronicles, the 30-year story about moving from the city to live a modern homestead life deep in the country on Manitoulin Island, Canada. Missed Chapter 10? Click here to […]
Continue ReadingFROST SEEDING: See How to Plant in Winter and Why
Frost seeding is the practice of broadcasting certain kinds of seeds on frozen ground near the end of winter. It’s an effective way to improve the species makeup of pastures without plowing, discing and reseeding bare ground. Why bother? More […]
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