Nails In The Wall

Book Review

- Executive Summary - Introduction - Soil strengthening techniques - Design considerations - Conclusions - Acknowledgements - References - Appendix A: Design check of a new retaining wall (Scheme A) - Appendix B: Design check of a stregnthened retaining wall (Scheme B) - Abstract - Related publications

This account of Mother building her own house is a remarkable story filled with her vision, fears, anxiety, anguish, determination and joy in fulfilling a lifetime dream. Mother kept a journal throughout the process, so was able to recall even the smallest details in her thought process, the people we met along the way, what they were wearing, what they said, what I said and how we resolved the countless dilemmas. The significance of this accomplishment only became fully apparent to me when I read this book. I did not understand the magnitude of her aspirations, how important it was to her or what a huge undertaking it was. Her persistence in light of the full awareness of potential for failure amazes me. She credits me for frequently solving looming disasters. In retrospect, my confidence was more a result of lack of knowledge. I didn't have the fear of failure, so was able to approach each situation objectively, with a clear head and nothing at stake. The entire project was a diversion for me - a vacation from my duties as a mother, wife and homemaker. My rewards were great and I thoroughly enjoyed this time in my life. This book is a wonderful tribute to the pursuit of a dream.

From Popular Mechanics (9.6 million readers every month), the hands-down experts on the subject of how things work, comes the most complete and up-to-date DIY guide ever published. This highly sophisticated household manual will instantly become the gold standard for anybody who fixes anything. Filled with color photos, drawings, and diagrams, this encyclopedic how-to covers every area of concern to house and apartment owners, with information on planning ahead; decorating; repairs and improvements; security; infestation, rot, and d& electricity; plumbing; heating; outdoor care; and tools and skills. And it’s easy to find the solution to the particular problem that concerns you, without having to go from page to page of continuous text: the straightforward design breaks down the subjects into clearly defined, color-coded chapters. So whether you’re looking for advice on applying finishes, adding decorative paint effects, constructing walls, fixing the roof, or installing a burglar alarm, the instructions are here. • National Publicity • Cross Marketing on the Website, PM zone • Featured in PM’s “Great Stuff Column” • Featured in PM E-Newsletter (125,000 subscribers) • Included in PM “Wish List for Guys” Gift Registry • Advertising in PM Magazine

Down a lonely, country road in the hinterlands of Maine's western mountains, author Angelo Kaltsos found beauty in a camp called "West Branch." In Of Bears, Mice, and Nails, Kaltsos tells of discovering an old hunting camp built almost 100 years ago and of his efforts to refurbish the camp to make it his home. Although he grew up and worked in large cities, nature called to Kaltsos. It lured him to woods, parks, and the outdoors. For more than thirty years he has made his home in a small cabin near the Appalachian Trail. Kaltsos first spied the property with spectacular views in 1967; he rented a home prior to purchasing the camp in 1978. In Of Bears, Mice, and Nails he describes his simplistic lifestyle with no indoor bathroom, no electricity, no generator, no solar panels, no telephone, and no television. He's gained knowledge of carpentry and agriculture, and learned to plant and care for trees, vegetables, flowers, grapes, and berries. His story includes excerpts of comments left by visitors in his outhouse guestbook who describe the wonders of spending time in a rustic, quiet, and magical place.