Ants and Uncles

On a short hike last weekend we came across this skyscraper of an anthill. (Uncle) Bill was kind enough to give the picture some scale (but not for too long).

straw bale house update: T&G soffits for most of the week, with some electrical work thrown in.  I decided to take out the electrical permit myself as electricians are an expensive lot.  For a mere $300 permit fee you can wire the house yourself.  One thing the wiring book doesn't cover is speaker wire.... and that's the first thing that had to be replaced after the first visit from the inspector. (the only inspector that we have to please here on Denman) Who woulda thunk.... busted for speaker wire "not to code".

I don't watch a lot of TV, but I've watched the last few seasons of American (and Canadian) Idol.  It's becoming more than obvious that the results are fixed. It seemed that even the judges were aware that there had to be some surprise ending (to the show) to keep the viewers coming back for another season. The New York Daily News survey concluded that 61% of people polled also believe the results were bogus.... even the winner thought the results were wrong.  I don't have a problem with the whole charade.... just don't call it reality TV.

Not sure how, but I missed the ZEITGEIST: ADDENDUM   Likely the most thought provoking movie you'll ever see. (every bit as good as the original)  It makes one want to fast forward time a few thousand years.

I'm Baaaaack

A sabbatical was in order.  What can I say?

Two bloggers that I read faithfully have have called it quits.... or not....James (UK) who has proven that we can change the way we live... and Paddy K (Sweden)  a very talented writer that just plain "burned out" then had second thoughts. 

straw Bale House update: Lots of building since I last posted...

Front entry is near completion... (waiting on some custom flashings)

Mason heater has been faced.

Doors and windows have been set.

Trenches for the power and greywater have been dug.

The "toe-ups" that anchor the straw bales are in place.

The pine T&G ceilings are about 1/2 complete