Clearly, my hands could not do this work alone. The scope for planning, decisions about details not shown in the architect's drawings, efficiency, reduction of waste, not to say geometry and trigonometry, is enormous. Truly this is work for hands and brains. Physical agility, good balance, and a certain degree of physical strength come in very handy as well. I couldn't have asked for a better crew to work with either.
Harmony is a word that springs to mind.
Scots, English, Canadian, Norwegian, although from varied backgrounds, and not all experienced builders, I think it's safe to say we all enjoy the work, and put a lot of ourselves into it. And I'm happy to report that there has been virtually none of the macho posturing and hair-curling humour that is rife on many building sites. I appreciate as well that this is not just another house going up, but is another attempt to expand our cluster of energy efficient and environmentally friendly houses. There is a scene in the film Witness that says it all for me. Scores of neighbours, friends and relatives have come together in a traditional Amish community to raise a barn.