We are in awe of the Indigenous master woodworkers of the Northwest Coast, what they achieved hundreds of years ago. Our imaginations too, are stirred, as we also strive to do this work with care, humility, respect and skill.

Home building, home making, home learning, home defining … these have been the substance of our year.

Fated to anonymity, leaving no trace of his identity, a timber framer is an artist who doesn't sign his work. Throughout history timber framers have understood that while their creations may stand for centuries, their names will most likely be lost to the mists of time.

This summer, we are tackling our biggest project yet. So big, that “big” seems like an understatement. Let’s go with “massive” for this one.

Elk are a big part of why OCH is here, in Atlanta, Michigan. A regal timber frame porch addition--a structure worthy of viewing the elk across an expansive open view--is now in the infancy of its construction.

Here in the woods, the sense of urgency to beautify a space seems unnecessary. Although the kitchen is sparse and spare, the furniture wobbly and patinaed with age, they don’t offend the way they would at home. The beauty is in the trees, and in us.

The important thing is that contrast is considered within the interior design choices made for a timber frame home. Play with the color, texture and reflectiveness of lighting, hardware, paint, textiles, and accents. Be aware of their power to complement or detract from the beauty of your timber frame.

Here’s to the laps behind us and the laps still ahead. May we plan them around togetherness, and remain hopeful.

No one hands Dan a “Courage” badge, but I would if I could. I see him every morning, lacing up his muddy boots, adjusting his signature outback hat, kissing us good-bye, and willingly shouldering all of the hard, all of the uncomfortable, all of the slow.