Sometimes the preliminary cut we make on the ground for the butt end doesn't fit well with the pass log when we get it up on the wall. usually this is because of an irregularity in the pass log that we couldn't eliminate.

So we have to fix it while the log is on the wall.

Much better.

Paul handled the rebar pinning today.

Paul tightens a ratchet strap which is holding the lead rope of a pulley block. This prevents the need for someone to keep tension on the block while it holds the end of a log in place for pinning.

Here's a once-in-a-lifetime shot. Paul took his shirt off for a few minutes to "even out his farmer's tan".

Beginning to cut the side saddle notch in the first third of the log sections for the east wall.

Making the vertical cuts down to the sketch line.

Paul did the rough cuts so Jeff took on the finish work.

Taking down one side to even things out.

Instead of using the excavator, Paul and Jeff decided to just lift these log sections with the block and tackle.

It was a little hard on the hands, but Jeff got that log up 20 feet in the air.

Jeff uses the angle grinder to modify the shape of the saddle for a tighter fit against the girder.

Paul checks the other end of the log section for plumb before pinning.

Beginning the notch in the middle log section. This section will have a notch at each end.

The first section is in place and visible on the right end of the wall. Jeff and Paul took a block and tackle each to lift this one.