Cabin Build Course Correction (Episode 853): Dolly’s Progress, Small-Town Drama & New Gear To Test
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The theme of Episode 853 is simple: cabin build course correction without losing momentum. In today’s show notes we break down why I changed the footing plan under the main beam, how Dolly (our new kitten) is settling into RV life with two giant dogs, the latest bout of small-town drama, and a quick preview of new products heading into the testing pipeline.
Coffee of the Day: Medium Dark Brazilian from FoodForestFarms.com — use code LOTS10 for 10% off, shipping always free.
Cabin Build Course Correction: Why I Changed the Plan
The original plan for the interior hanging floor relied on compacted gravel pads with precast deck blocks and 4×4 posts for the center beam. After laying out a couple, I decided to upgrade to poured 28″ diameter footings at ~14″ deep with ~4″ gravel base, threaded rod, and 6×6 beam posts.
Why the cabin build course correction?
- Load capacity & longevity: Larger diameter pads + poured concrete = better bearing and fewer worries down the road.
- Material already on hand: I had 6×6 cutoffs from the roof phase—perfect to repurpose for stronger beam supports.
- Do-it-right mindset: Slightly more work now, fewer compromises later.
TL;DR: Bigger holes, poured footings, beefier posts. Same vision—stronger foundation.
Materials Run & Logistics Reality
We brought in ~100 pieces of 2×12 PT and ~30 sheets of 3/4″ T&G subfloor, plus ~2,000 lbs of concrete (I opted for 50 lb bags to save our backs). Without a skid steer available that day, we hand-unloaded everything. It wasn’t pretty—but it’s done.
Concrete mixing plan: testing the contractor bag method (mix in heavy-duty bags, knead like dough, pour directly). If the batch test works, I’ll stage per-hole mixes for speed and consistency.
Pro tip from the field: Tennessee clay can set up like concrete when the sun bakes it for a few days. Sharpen your pickaxe. Hydrate.
Living With Intention: Moving On-Site Sooner
Our working strategy is to move in sooner with minimal infrastructure and build from there:
- Phase 1: Floor hung, walls up, windows/doors framed, exterior metal on, spray-foam insulation, small wood stove for heat.
- Power: Start with our RV solar system; scale into the larger array later.
- Water: Existing rainwater catchment plus the ability to shuttle water like we do when boondocking.
- Goal: Have the floor complete by end of September, begin wall framing in October (visitors & events may affect pace).
Dolly Update: Kitten Meets Big Dogs
Dolly is officially part of the crew. She alternates between zoomies and naps on the tower, and she’s increasingly unsupervised around the boys. We’re vigilant—one playful paw from a giant can be a lot for a kitten—but daily sessions are paying off.
- Integration routine: short, supervised sessions → desensitization → longer free-roam periods.
- Milestone: Dogs now lose interest faster; Dolly is comfortable exploring and returns to her enclosure to recharge.
Local & Social Media Drama
Two threads this week:
- Regional legend debate: There’s heated discussion about a well-known historical figure in a nearby town and how the community should handle museums, festivals, and memorials going forward. Emotions are high; opinions are louder.
- Micro-politics on Facebook: The local groups have turned into never-ending outrage cycles. We still use them to spot odd jobs/services, but it’s getting tough to separate signal from noise. Reminder: Don’t build your life—or business—on rented platforms. (More on that below.)
New Products I’m Testing
A batch of new gear is in the pipeline (details and first-impressions coming soon on the show and blog). Expect practical tools for RV living, cabin building, and homestead chores—plus some tech that actually makes daily life easier.
If there’s something you want me to test, drop it in the comments or ping me in Telegram.
Questions for Flat Earthers (Teaser)
I’ve got a list of honest, curious, occasionally snarky questions I’d love answered. This segment earned its own spotlight—look for shorts and a deeper dive in an upcoming episode. If you’ve got your own questions, send them in and I’ll compile a crowd list.
Support the Show + Helpful Links
- Coffee: Medium Dark Brazilian from FoodForestFarms.com — LOTS10 saves 10% (free shipping).
- Hardware Wallet: Blockstream Jade & Jade Plus — Use code TheLOTSProject for 10% off. (Affiliate link: I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.) https://store.blockstream.com/?code=TheLOTSProject
- Do Everything Kitchen Knife: Nulu Knife – https://bit.ly/3UklDN0 (Affiliate link: I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.)
- Community Chat: Telegram — come hang out, ask questions, and share wins.
- Amazon Shopping? Hit the Amazon banner on the homepage first—it helps the show at no extra cost to you.
What’s Next
- Pour the five footings, set 6×6 supports, hang beams, and get those 2×12 floor joists flying.
- Start framing exterior walls and schedule spray foam.
- Share first-look reviews of new products on the livestream and blog.
If you’re enjoying the build series, share this post, leave a comment, and subscribe to the show. That simple support keeps the momentum—and sawdust—flying.
