'This Old Crack House' #48: The Final Chapter... You cant judge a blog by its cover...Is a picture worth a thousand words?

Dusty – Simply Unbelievable. Absolutely fantastic work. And how long did the entire project take you? I assume that you have taken residence in the house now?

FmOMbr,

Thank you.

Yes I live in the house now.

I am writing a encore chapter which I will cover how long it took me and several other questions I have been
asked during my writing of this blog.

The short answer to your question is about two years.

Of course I have a lot of other projects I would like to do and add to “This Old Crack House”.

These projects never end, all woodworkers know and accept this. The problem is to get others to go along with our thinking.

Make sawdust.

I hope to write about some of these, like the tree house for my peacock who’s name is Tasha and is not the best of friend with my basset hounds.

-- Dusty

Truly inspiring…the house, the furniture, the stained glass, you, your story…wow. I’ve related because I’m in the middle of a similar story with my mud hut. It’s half done and I’m low on funds, time, and energy, but thanks to you not faith!!!! I hate to see it end.
So it is OK with me if you take off a week or so before starting your stained glass blog.

Thanks

-- http://www.woodsongsfurniture.com

Dusty It has been a pleasure to ride along with you on this trip – Journey.

The house looks great except. You need a couple of Mission stools in the third kitchen. Those look out of place.

Thanks for your memories.

-- What happens in the workshop stays in the workshop. No wait that doesn't sound right. Karson Southern Delaware karson_morrison@bigfoot.com †

KARSON,

Thank you.

Your so right.

You found the only furniture that I didn’t build.

They were gifts from a friend. I don’t have the heart to store them because he is so proud that I have them in the house.

Oh well whats the harm.

-- Dusty

Absolutely fantastic. Perfect in fact.

Can’t let my wife read this, only look at the pictures. You’ve accomplished more in 2 years than many people have done in a lifetime. (She’ll start to get impatient with my 5+ years on this house – I’ll step it up if she lets me have three kitchens though)

You also dove in and made it work on a wing and a prayer, while others who’d manage to get past the nay-sayers would still be making lists of where to begin -or when they should have knocked it down and pitched a tent (or made a nice playground for the neighborhood.

Bravo!

-- I am always doing what I cannot do yet, in order to learn how to do it. - Pablo Picasso -- http://blanchardcreative.etsy.com -- http://snbcreative.wordpress.com/

What a ride this has been. Have you ever thought about calling the people you bought it from and having them stop by for tea?

-- http://ye-olde-cabinet-shoppe.com/

An amazing transformation Dusty. I need to share your story with my daughter and son-in-law. He is a carpenter and they just bought their own former crack house. He has very lofty ideas and I don’t think I give him enough credit. It’s truly an amazing story you’ve told. Inspiring to say the least.

Thanks for sharing with us.

-- Bob, Carver Massachusetts, Sawdust Maker http://www.capecodbaychallenge.org

Jaw-dropping magnificent.

And then I think back to that first chapter of this journey and remember how far you have come. Astounding

Two years? And here I sit with my handful of projects under my hat. Ha. I guess if I really want to do this I should be building and building and building. In two years I could have a house built and renovated. Ha. I don’t think so. You are a miracle worker.

Oh, and do you have TIME to entertain or sit down and enjoy that big screen tv??

Well done, Dusty. Well done. You are an inspiration and an Angel.

-- ~ Debbie, Canada (http://www.execulink.com/~yohan)

Well, he’s certainly changed the neighborhood.

Awesome!

-- No piece is cut too short. It was meant for a smaller project.

Who says one man cant chanage the world. You have certainly have made a impact, both online and in your neighborhood. You have set a example for all of us to follow.

Great Job, Love the house, really love the furnishings, and I see you got the hot tub after all.

Take care and God Bless

-- Greg - Charles Town, WV

Wow, what a payoff. Love the whole thing, but the detail of that heron stained glass piece in the dining room really caught my eye, and the main kitchen is a layout that I’ve been toying with wanting.

On that front, how do you find the distance between the stove and the refrigerator in the main kitchen? All the design books say “put ‘em in a triangle”, but I can’t figure out a layout I think I’d like if I did that, and I like the layout you’ve got.

-- Dan Lyke, Petaluma California, http://www.flutterby.net/User:DanLyke

Wow. Wow. And again, WOW. I can only aspire to that level of quality and quantity. Can we see the inside of the new shop (or did I miss pictures of that in an earlier post?) I want to marvel at more of your work. :)

Scotb,

Your the only one who has to answer to a time table. I pushed because I had to. I have said it before but it is worth repeating.

Enjoy the journey.

Take it all in, soon enough it will be over.

I will also so there were many times I thought “wheres the bull dozer”.

As far as the nay-sayers.

Essential.

I couldn’t of did this house with out them.

I wouldn’t have any one pushing me and telling me I couldn’t do something.

-- Dusty

Obi,

Most of the former owners are still in jail. I have invited the one I bought it from but she didn’t want to see it.

She said it would bring back bad memory’s.

Two of the daughters of the original owners have toured it.

They were touched and great ful I had restored there fathers dream.

-- Dusty

Bob Babcock,

I only understand to well the feeling of not giving some one enough credit.

The balance required between destroying some ones dreams or vision and being a realist and grounded in reality is razor thin.

I have had several people go through my home and get inspired and excited about there own home and prospects.

All I can do is listen. Offer assistance or advice only when they seek it from me.

Remain encouraging.

Try never to be judgmental and support the person with out regard to the dream.

This is no easy I admit.

However it is easier for me to see some one fall short or even struggle than for them never to risk or try something and to feel crushed or defeated.

Most of us can work out of our troubles and actually do well under stress.

Few of us do well with ” I wish I would of…. or what later we come to define as ….REGRETS

-- Dusty

VTWoody,

Thank you.

The shop is very simple. I think all the pictures are still posted in my shop section of this web site.

I however will be posting new pictures very soon.

I have had requests for more pictures of the house and shop. I plan on writing a Encore Chapter and doing some of these things along with wraping ups some loose ends and several questions I have received over the blog seris that I haven’t been able to answer or cover in the story.

-- Dusty

Dennis Mitchell,

I only know to well what you are going through.

I won’t or can’t say anything that would be of much help.

I will however tell you…I understand.

Enough said.

I also believe in you.

-- Dusty

Dan Lyke

Quote

“On that front, how do you find the distance between the stove and the refrigerator in the main kitchen? All the design books say “put ‘em in a triangle”, but I can’t figure out a layout I think I’d like if I did that, and I like the layout you’ve got.”

I know that all the design books say that. My issue with there answer is just that… “every one does it” and it may not be for everyone. It never worked for me. It is a guide line not a law. It is a starting point.

I think you answered your own question. ” I can’t figure out a layout I think I’d like if I did that, .... then don’t do it.

Do what you want and like.

Now to answer the general question.

Of course it depends on space and how much you have. Certainly a good guide line is a triangle. However I have always felt that should be around the sink not the stove or ref. If you think about it your more likely to use over and over in short periods the sink than the stove or ref. You tend to do a lot of prep and then either put something in the stove or get what you need out of the ref.

I have always designed around the sink. I also when ever I can have two sinks in my kitchens like I did in the main kitchen. I will go more in depth about this and why in my Encore chapter. I have been asked about this several times.

I will also post a picture so you can see what I did with that space beside the one island sink.

I hope it is helpful.

P.S

One other quick note, I have the dishwasher in the island next to the sink out of the way of the opening door of the stove. There is several reasons besides that I use the island ever day to casual dine that I designed the island the way I have. One big reason I did this was so I could prep food using a portable cutting board and still have a deep sink to clean my veggies ect, while still being able to have my guests sit and face me and allow conservation while I am cooking.

-- Dusty

well thought out.
oh if only I could make a kitchen that works for me

-- ~ Debbie, Canada (http://www.execulink.com/~yohan)

MsDebbiep,

You can.

Now just do it.

Get to work.

-- Dusty

gulp :)

-- ~ Debbie, Canada (http://www.execulink.com/~yohan)

Dusty, the whole thing is beyond belief. Without a doubt it’s the finest example of single-person craftsmanship I’ve ever seen. The number of different disciplines that you’ve mastered to complete this dream project is awe-inspiring. Superlatives fail me so I’ll simply say:

Well done.

-- Robert from Raymond, MS. "We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence is therefore not a practice, but a habit." - Aristotle

TheGravedigger,

I’m touched and moved by your comments.

Thank you.

I think if you would of said “massacred rather than master” you would of been right on.

Trust me I made every mistake possible in each and every one of those crafts. I so so far from an master in all of the crafts and trades.

I have so much to learn.

I guess that is what keeps me interested.

-- Dusty

My wife sometimes derides me for spending too much time on the computer. I know she’s right, here I am at 4:30am unable to sleep, so visiting my favorite place. No, I’m not at risk of getting her scorn, she’s in Vancouver visiting my daughter and grandchildren.

I’d like to have her meet some of you guys and gals, I’m sure that she would agree with me that you all are real special people. But then, I’ve thought better of it because that would just be making a rod for my own back.

Sure, I’m going to introduce here to a guy who in a few short years has:
- renovated and rebuilt two old house into show-homes,
- designed and built the high quality furniture that goes in them,
- rescued a dying neighborhood from decay and crime,
- looked after ailing neighbors,
- ducked bullets,
- settled arguments, and
- sold real estate in complex three-way deals.

Yes – sure, she’s going to believe me.

And if I told her that this guy has a physical handicap and holds down a full-time job as well as runs a business that employs a number of people – yep, she will know that I am certifiable.

And if I were somehow to convince her that such a guy exist, what is she going to say about me? How would I convince her that I was not just taking up unnecessary space?

No I’m no fool – I’m not even going to mention that such a guy exists.

LOL

-- CanuckDon "I just love small wooden boxes!" http://www.hilsbiblechurch.org/

Dusty, the true master is one who creates beauty IN SPITE of the mistakes. He also never stops learning.

-- Robert from Raymond, MS. "We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence is therefore not a practice, but a habit." - Aristotle

Dusty: i don’t know how you have any time to watch your 61” HDTV. It looks like you are always on the go doing something.

Don has seemed to make all of the points that we have come to know and love about you and your dedication.

-- What happens in the workshop stays in the workshop. No wait that doesn't sound right. Karson Southern Delaware karson_morrison@bigfoot.com †

good point Don!!!
pointS. .. a miracle man.. an angel.. ha… figment of your imagination

-- ~ Debbie, Canada (http://www.execulink.com/~yohan)

I was going to make a comment but I really don’t think there’s anything I can say here that hasn’t already been said above… so I’ll just say ‘very impressive!’

I’m sure you enjoy coming home to a home like this

-- Skinna - Australia... I won't stop at murder if that's what is necessary to get the job done

reading this blog has been quite like what it was about – an absolute epic adventure!

-- Skinna - Australia... I won't stop at murder if that's what is necessary to get the job done

What an amazing restoration! Ditto what some many others have said. I hope you can hear the applause emanating from Oklahoma!

Skinna, Buckskin and fellow LumberJocks

Thank you for your kind words.

Yes I really love coming home to this home. I am finally able to take a deep breath and take in all the fruits of the hard work.

It is a joy ever day for me to come home.

I have been so blessed and remain great full.

I is and remains humbling for me.

I am on the verge of doing another full restoration, with another set of entirely different challenges. I am working on the final details of this project and should know in two weeks if it is going to be a go.

I am considering bloging this project also. That is if my true friend Don, who has served tireless and sliently as my editor. He has made my dribble readable . If he is willing and is up for another blog I would be humbled to share this experience with all of you.

Dons true tribute and thank you is still not completed and is in the last chapter I am writing of “This Old Crack House.” I hope to finish it soon.

I have been so busy with working 80 hours a week time has been short. I also have been working on this new project .

The bloging of this project of course depends on the interest and patience of all my faithful followers who’s support and encougeing words and comments made the writing of “This Old Crack House” one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

Perhaps you would like to take another journey on a another re-hab project with me?

Who knows where or how this one will end.

It hasn’t even started yet.

It truly helped me heal and has made all the trials and tribulations worth ever drop of sweat.

I am greatful.

Again thank you all.

-- Dusty

Dusty,
This is an inspiration to all of us. I too am in the middle of rebulding a house. Some times it seems it will never get done. Some times I am tired, some times I am old, and some times I feel crippled. But when I see what you have accomplished I feel like getting up and going on. I did not get to read all of this blog because I wasn’t here. Maybe when I have time I will. But I promise that if you do another I will follow it religiously. You interest me, my friend, and so I will study your moves. I wish you good weather and fair wind.
Tom

-- Thos. Angle

By the way Dusty, the date on your copyright says “1907”. The look is appropriate but I think you mean 2007.

-- Thos. Angle

I am ready to be caught up, once again, in your web of challenges, learning opportunities, and successes.

bring it on

(Hmm 80 hours a week.. I know that I read several times that what you learned thru the process was to enjoy life more and never work long hours ever again. ... brings to mind a quote about “if it walks like a duck… it is a duck”... You are who you are, aren’t you, Dusty? I don’t think you will ever get work hours down to a reasonable 40 hours / week.

-- ~ Debbie, Canada (http://www.execulink.com/~yohan)

Thos, Angle

Thank you so Much for your kind words.

I wish you luck on you project. I hope you can find time through the journey to take time to enjoy the trip.

I am going to be starting a new project this morning. It will be one of my biggest challenges to date.

Not so much because it is a difficult project, or a historical challenge or a large project.

No, it is because the house has been posted unfit and is considered hazardous and will be condemned if not mold abated.

I raised my hand and bought it.

I quite possibly have lost my mine.

Correction, I have lost my mind.

Regardless, I paid 141,000 to loose my mind.

Time to go to work.

Stay tuned.

Here we go again.

I seem never to learn.

Please feel free to join me on this adventure I will need all the help I can get.

Off I go with my respirator to start the demo of the basement finish.

Wish me luck.

-- Dusty

Good luck Dusty. You’re gonna need it.

-- Thos. Angle

must be a nice piece of land!

best of luck work-a-holic that doesn’t learn…haha

-- ~ Debbie, Canada (http://www.execulink.com/~yohan)

This Old Mold House, the adventure continues! Hurray!

-- "Bordnerizing" perfectly good lumber for over a decade.

And we get to Ask This Mold House!

-- No piece is cut too short. It was meant for a smaller project.

Lumberjocks,

Thank you for all your comments.

I have been swamped with my new adventure for a week now.

And what a adventure it has been.

So far the only thing I know for sure is mold belongs on cheese not in a house.

Whew.

I am taking many many pictures and keeping a daily journal.

Stay tuned for “This Old Mold House”.

Cheese anyone?

-- Dusty

Unbelievable story. Just read every chapter in one sitting. Dusty, your perseverance and positive attitude is inspirational, truly. Your saga was linked from Neatorama, here: http://tinyurl.com/2xsc9o

In several places toward the end, you say “I could/should” write a book. To which I mentally responded, “Please do, and I’d gladly buy it!” No kidding man, you have so many different skills and experience in so many different areas, from woodworking, to stained-glass, to remodeling old homes, and on and on and on! There are several “print on demand” online services now, where all you have to do is upload your text, and they’ll print and bind single copies as they’re ordered. Heck, with a little clean-up of the typos on this saga, you could sell this story, itself!

And given your loss of the use of one hand, your determination and ambition is so impressive. I kid you not, reading your tale has revived my own drive to overcome what are now, in comparison, trivial obstacles and disappointments in my own life. Minuscule, in comparison to the frustrations and set-backs you overcame with courage and plenty of hard work.

Bravo, Man, Bravo! <applause>

I was fortunate enough to get a tour of “This Old Crack House” a couple of weeks ago. I am here to tell you the pictures do not tell the whole story. This is a work of art throughout. There must be about a bazillion man-hours of labor—every square inch is a detail. And Dusty does details.

Incredible! Wish I knew what else to say.

-- Check out my new website! http://www.blakeweberwoodworking.com

You have transformed nearly condemned house into an attractive home filled with beautiful furniture and detail.

Congratulations on its completion and thanks for sharing your work with all of us.

Dalec

Absolutely beautiful work Dusty. If like rikkor says that the pictures are only part, then I cannot imagine what to say other than, it’s beautiful.

-- When you give someone a chance it may well be their last.

thOrn,

Your gracious comments are very humbling.

Thank you!

I simply must give credit where credit is due. My good friend Don, did all the editing for “This Old Crack House”.

With out his skill and patience my written dribble would of been like sawdust on a cement floor.

Worthless!

He made my ramblings readable.

I simply told my story, one that is repeated every day by many others who have life a lot worse than me.

These individuals move quietly forward, without notice , or attention drawn to their lives.

No fan fare, no gracious comments and certainly a lot less, if any; support, from a community like Lumberjocks.

It has been my honor and pleasure to share my simple journey with all of you.

I await eagerly as our fellow Lumberjocks adventures, projects and experiences , along with their stories unfold for us in this great community.

-- Dusty

Wow! That is just amazing. I can’t say anthing better than anyone else has already said. You must be a very busy person. Your house is gorgeous! The work you do is amazing.

-- Janice

Janice,

Thank you so much for the kind comments.

I have been very busy this last year and unable to spend hardly any time posting or sharing in my favorite pastime and web site Lumberjocks.

I have finished a one year advanced apprenticeship working on specialty stained glass Tiffany lamps. In addition to the glass work I have been building my own stands and even doing some custom metal foundry work with brass and bronze.

I have also completed another rehab project and added a “guest cottage ” to This Old Crack House.”

I have been reassigned permanently back to my home state as a Investigator and Officer for Mortgage Fraud and crimes task force.

Certainly, this has been a busy 16 months. I look forward to coming back to Lumberjocks.

Dusty

-- Dusty

you are so amazing…

-- Matt, Napa, CA...fun is beautiful...just trying to have some fun...

Drop dead gorgeous

-- Jim from Heirloom Woodshop Southern Oregon

why is it called a crackhouse? I don’t understand Alistair

-- excuse my typing as I have a form of parkinsons disease