I attended, my wife didn't. As a result, we're not always on the same page. She also has some unrealistic expectations about how long it takes to complete a project like this, she has a tendency to choose complicated solutions to simple problems, and spends too much money on things we don't need at times we don't need them. It certainly CAN be done if your wife doesn't attend, but it WILL lead to additional stresses in the building process. I'm on the verge of moving into my log house now and I can tell you, I WISH SHE HAD GONE TO THE CLASS!!

So, I think the real answer is that both of you attending the class is more of a suggestion for a happy marriage than it is for a successful building project...

Basil had a great explanation.

Basically the same for us, my wife (at the time, fiance') didn't come along, but I wish she had. She would have a better understanding of some of the things before-hand. Things have went fairly well so far, but there definitely has to be a lot of trust between the two, since only 1 person took the class.

Either way though, it's a great experience all around.

Pros and Cons regarding bringing wife to class

Pros
1. Understands home design issues like wet wall, four corners, etc.
2. Second set of notes in case you miss something.
3. She catches the log home building bug.
4. Is able to join you for the member BBQ’s.
5. She isn’t at the mall spending all our money.
Cons
1. Tuition is more money but at least she isn’t at the mall.
2. Who will take care of the kids?
3. Avoid comparisons like, “Hey, Pinecone Pam can get all her logs up in 11 days, why can’t you?”

From the wife's perspective... I wasn't quite sure why I needed to go, but just enjoy traveling with hubby! Really thought maybe I'd just relax and read a good book or whatever? We debated about the financial issues (fortunately, our kids are grown, so that wasn't an issue!) and finally decided to bite the bullet. I am SO glad that I went to the class! (And, I didn't read a good book during class!) I agree with all the above - if I had not been there, Vern would spend much more time explaining "why" he was doing this or that, and many times I have something in my notes that he didn't, or maybe just remember it different so we look it up! It made it much more of a team effort and has been an experience that I wouldn't trade for a million dollars! We have worked together on every step of the process, from traveling to buy logs, to peeling bark, to the actual lifting and building process. Of course, there are things that I can't do physically, but I can always bring a glass of iced tea and cheer him on!

You are the only ones who can decide if there is any way to make it happen, and the childcare issue can be a big hurdle. If you have any options at all with that, I encourage you to find a way! Besides, everyone needs a second honeymoon!

Good luck!
Sara Street

PS We didn't do it in a few days either, but hope to be moved in by fall! Check out our progress at www.vernstreet.com

My wife didn't go. Big mistake.
After I had the class she said;
"Great let's remodel this one first, then build the
log home on the new property you just bought."

So, the "new lot" was sold several years ago, the remodel
still isn't finished (are they ever?) and I'm building a stick-
framed storage shed on the newest property where the log
home will be built. Wasted 15 years. Should have built a
log home right after the class.

When I took the class a couple brought their baby who was
only a few months old. He started crying during the class.
Skip looked down at him making a rukus, and said; "Great,
start 'em young. I've had everyone from grandma's to young
kids take the class. He's getting a head start on life. Not a
problem." Personally I could have cared less if the baby was
crying. Mom and dad were only able to be there by bringing
the baby and I was wishing my wife would have come with me.
Didn't bother Skip, or anyone else in the class. However, if your
kids are older and need to be entertained...well, that may be
more difficult. No matter what, it's best if you both can go.

Since my wife didn't go, she had other ideas. Now I'm sitting
here without a log home. Somehow, get her there! You will
be much happier down the road. Instead of dragging behind
you on your log home dream she may be kicking you in the be-
hind to get going on this project.

Might also be too expensive to go alone. If she's not with you
on this....
Well, you may have spent a lot of money for a fun and interesting
weekend, and got some nice information that will never be used.
If you spend the extra money for her to go then you may get a
bargain. A lot of useful information that can be put to use right away.

-Rick

Think about this... (again this is Mrs. Vern speaking, but I think he would agree!)

The principles of making love are pretty simple and can readily be "explained", but wouldn't you rather share the experience and learn together!

It's not all about the destination, you need to enjoy the journey!

Just my two cents worth...