When Rob and I started dating he shared a dream with me. The memory is crystallized in my mind over a quiet breakfast conversation in the dining room. His dream was to build a treehouse cabin. I remember thinking it was such a cool idea, so completely outside the box. He is an experienced builder, with over 20 years under his (tool) belt in both construction and project management. I had no doubt he could do it.

SUMMER 2022

That was the summer of 2022. After months of researching, designing and locating the perfect spot on his home’s three forested acres, the dream morphed into a full scale construction project with the first large delivery of lumbar that spring.

THE DREAM MATERIALIZES

I’ll be the first to admit, construction is not my forte. But with help from good friends, Dennis and Tyson, neighbors, and specialty contractors, the treehouse cabin was completed in June 2024. It exceeded our expectations in every way. Not only was it a huge accomplishment and a dream materialized, it was suddenly a business full of potential.

With zero experience in the short-term rental business there was a steep learning curve, but our guests, friends and family helped immensely. Their feedback and kind encouragement helped us fine tune amenities over the summer and lay a solid foundation for years to come.

Ultimately, the treehouse cabin is a retreat for family, friends and guests. We envisioned a quiet place for people to reconnect to nature, themselves and each other. It’s not for everyone, but isn’t that precisely the point?

BIGGEST TAKE-AWAYS FROM YEAR ONE

One

95% of guests are wonderful. Having zero experience in renting, we naturally expected the worst and were grateful to be shown the kindness and care most guests give the property. That makes it all the more special to us.

Two

Valkyrie, our sweet cat, is a superb hostess. Once she figured out she had a constant supply of fans at the cabin, she quickly took over hostess duties. We receive countless comments on her sweetness and hosting abilities. She particularly likes guiding guests to the shower (or their car, cabin, fire pit, etc.) and keeps their laps warm outside. SIDE NOTE: She is not allowed inside the cabin to protect those with allergies. You can learn more about her here.

Three

An outdoor shower brings its own set of challenges in the winter. This may seem obvious, but we were so consumed with summer and fall bookings we didn’t give winter much consideration until November hit. The season started off with freezing conditions (which is rare around here), so we opted to shut water off to the shower to protect the pipes. This was disappointing, but it had to be done. Guests were understanding. Some kept their reservations and some decided to reschedule during warmer weather. Next year we’ll close reservations during the winter to help limit any safety issues regarding freezing conditions. (Winter openings may be an option if weather permits)

Four

Compromise brings about amazing things. I can’t tell you how many times Rob and I have countered each other throughout the build, only to yield a better option in the end. A great example of this was our decision on the interior paint. Rob originally wanted the entire interior to be stained wood. I envisioned a 1970’s ski lodge and that was way too much ‘wood’ for me. I wanted the whole thing painted white, so it was bright, clean and airy. After much discussion, we agreed to a white wash, with watered down paint that had some color but also allowed the wood grain to show. It’s a beautiful win-win and we both love it.

GRATITUDE AND THANKS

We are beyond thrilled with our little treehouse cabin venture and so grateful for all the wonderful guests that have stayed with us. If serenity and connection are part of your goals for 2025, we hope to see you this year.

Safe travels,

Rob & Natalie