Make Your Own Lumber

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Now . . . how did I get the boards the quarter-mile out to where my truck was parked? Why man, I just carried 'em out, three at a time, on my shoulders! Sure, it took many trips back and forth, but I can't think of any work more healthful (and delightful) than ambling along that well-worn trail in the majesty of the forest, shifting my burden from one shoulder to another until I had a full truckload.

A HAPPY TESTIMONIAL

Although I had bought a special ripping chain to use with the tool, Mr. Jesse Haddon (who wrote me several letters containing helpful advice) told me that such an accessory wasn't really necessary . . . and he was right! My standard chains, which I keep sharp, slice through 10-foot logs easily. Also, by using the regular chain 1 can crosscut the trees, as well . . . without having to change my saw's revolving "blade".

All in all, the homegrown "lumber mill" has been one of the most pleasant and rewarding purchases I've ever made . . . and one which will probably never wear out, either. Not only does it accurately saw any thickness of wood, but I'm very pleased with the beautiful "rough-cut" finish on the sawn boards . . . and will never sand them. (I've already made six two-inch-thick doors, and their rough texture—finished in several coats of linseed oil and turpentine—draws compliments from all who see them.)

Now, thanks to the Lumber/Maker, I have a huge stack of wood—of all sizes—with which to build my solar house. The cost? Shucks, it was practically nothing . . . just a few dollars for gas, oil, and a spare chain.

Perhaps even more rewarding than the fact that I've saved a great deal of money, however, is the satisfaction that comes with the work. On one particular day, for example, I came across a lone 40-foot tree that was about to topple . . . cut it down and into three 12-foot logs . . . and ended up with 60 full-sized 12-foot 2 X 10's! The peaceful, satisfied sleep that followed that day's labors is the kind of "luxury" that no amount of cash can buy!

MITE NOT

V.A. Brauchi from Amarillo, Texas says that one easy way to keep mites off your chickens is to throw some home-raised wormwood plants into the biddies' coop. Your birds won't eat the leaves . . . and the mites will exit for other parts!

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