Last weekend we cut down a tree.

We're pretty sure it's the first tree either of us have ever cut down, and even in the midst of a densely wooded forest, we still found ourselves welling up with feelings of sadness and regret at cutting short (literally) a beautiful life.

But we did it anyway—cut it down—because it happened to be standing on top of what seemed to be the only flat-ish section of the meadow (it's really at the edge of the meadow, and is, as it turns out, not even remotely flat).

Why do flat land and trees matter? Because we've decided to build a tiny cabin.

As far as the woods is concerned, the two of us spent the last half of 2015 mulling over the unfortunate conclusion that, due to major dry rot, mold, half-assed construction, and animal infestation, the original cabin on our forest property is unsalvageable (yes, it's hard to believe, and we agree, it's a real bummer). And when it came down to it, neither of us was feeling up to the financial and physical task of rebuilding an entire structure, on weekends, while sleeping in a small backpacking tent in relentless, rain-pelting weather.

So, we're starting small. Really small. 12x12 tiny off-grid cabin small. And we're really excited about it. Even if it meant cutting down a majestic tree.

Next up is building a platform for the cabin to sit atop, so stay tuned!