#91 First Fire

This week starts with a storm. I'm moving on with the masonry stove and I get the first small fires going. I revisit one my very first projects, which was the window frame upstairs. The floorboards are ready and I'm picking them up at the sawmill.
Masonry stove: tempcast.com/
SUPPORT/DONATIONS
Paypal: www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted...
Patreon: / martijndoolaard
SOCIAL
Instagram: / martijndoolaard
Music in this video: About Us by Kisnou
0:00 Storm
3:17 Return after the storm
5:20 Chickens
6:49 Chimney
7:57 Bake oven door
11:20 Next steps
13:35 Dinner (Dutch 'stamppot')
16:59 I found a new viewpoint
18:40 A heavy slab
21:60 Oven door ledge
24:50 Extending water pipes
26:42 Installing ledge
27:45 Step 8
29:21 Window
33:07 Visiting sawmill
37:04 Chickens
38:24 Unloading floor boards
41:04 Oven door arch
43:27 First fire
48:35 Glass goes in

[@practicalphilosophy301]

I don't usually comment on here, but today I'm early and there's not a lot of comments yet, so let me just say: I have been watching your videos for almost two years now. I never missed an episode in the cabin series. This episode truly feels like another huge milestone in your work. When I saw the smoke coming from the chimney in that one shot, it had a very special feeling to it. In that moment, to me, the house really started to feel like a living and breathing cabin. It's turning into more than a ruin that's being renovated and your property is no longer a campsite. Your house is now turning into a home. Congratulations and I hope that you take the time to relish the fruits of your labour! Greetings from Munich, Germany :)

[@lahnfear123]

I've been watching from the first episode and I had the same feeling. When that window went in combined with the smoke coming out of the chimney.... it felt like home.

[@tanyabooysen3958]

The progress is magical, almost unbelievable that one person with occasional help is capable of such achievements. Very admirable Martijn, see you next week.

[@jbburton5928]

I used to cringe watching you make that frame with basic tools and a blunt saw but now you are now accomplished builder well done

[@maryannknox7158]

Indeed ♥️

[@fasteddy07]

My thougts exactly. I couldn’t have said it any better. 🙏🏼👌👏

[@maditawinter4777]

I am an old woman. I could be your mother. I have seen so many films in my life. At the cinema, TV, KZbin, whatever ... And this, this is the best series I have ever seen. So authentic, so beautiful pictures, cutting slow and sensitive, no word which is not needed. And the projekt ... absolutely awesome what you are creating! I love it!!!

[@paulasmith2684]

Beautiful to see the fire ..❤your home is really taking shape now ! Another excellent episode..thankyou

[@lindachenoweth9002]

You would think he does this just for us old people. I'm also old enough to be his mother, and I love it!

[@lawrenceeddy5759]

Watching, without much dialogue,is a meditation of peace.

[@ForbiddenChocolate]

I look forward to these videos every week, and I save them until the end of the day when I'm ready to relax. Today was especially hectic, so this was needed more than usual. Visiting with Martijn takes me back to simpler, peaceful times that I miss.

[@dutchgram3799]

The whole series is perfection.

[@jamesgroce1284]

The fire in the stove lifted my spirits. Words won't do here. Martijn, is a remarkable story teller. Nothing in this project is easy. Thank you for allowing us to tag along.

[@SuzieQ884]

Mine too !!! What a Success ! Yeah Martijn 🪵🔥🪓

[@giova-of5pw]

Hey Martijn , the woman at 35:20 asked you “lavori sempre?” (are you always working?) but you didn’t answer! here some phrases you can use next time: - Sì, lavoro sempre (yes I’m always working) - Non mi fermo mai (I never stop/rest) - Adoro il mio lavoro (I love my job) - Ho un pubblico esigente (I’ve got a demanding audience) 😉

[@CatariaNigra]

How about: it is no job, it is a passion! ☺️

[@deekelley891]

I read a comment that said, “we all helped build the oven-in our minds,” and I agree. I think we all feel a part of this magical place. We’ve watched from all over the world, many from the very beginning. All through the journey, we’ve been here mesmerized by the enormity of the task-and amazed that with creativity and hard work it is nearing completion. It’s beautiful lesson we all need reminding-if you believe in yourself you can accomplish almost anything.

[@alisonr9608]

I agree, we are all part of the web with Martijn in the middle. We are all connected through him.

[@kindlydude]

☺@@alisonr9608

[@chrissherkel9437]

Martijn, As a retired brick and stone mason, as well as Sketchup designer, I love how you brought your ideas to reality. The stonework and design look beautiful, and I could see the joy and pride as you sat in front of the first fire. It took me back 42 years when I did the same in my living room. Awesome job!!

[@Aisfan]

I slso am an eldetly woman, 83 years to be exact and i have been watching and looking forward every Sunday from day 1 to seeing your beautiful home, when seeing the smoke coming from your chimney it brought a smile to my face and for some reason felt this was a special moment. Your staircase is absolutely fabulous as is your fire, what i wouldn't give to live in such beauty !! You have to be feeling a great sense of pride at what you have achieved so far. I just love and thank you for the picturesque views of your beautiful surroundings that you video for us.

[@maryevans8766]

I am 70 years young. I'm a Navajo from Arizona. I enjoy your videos. My late dad left us an old house made from cinder blocks without a foundation. He was in his twenties when he built this house for our late mom. Watching your videos really inspired my sis and I. She's 74 years young. That mushroom at the beginning brings the beginnings very special. Watching the mushroom 🍄 age is incredible. It's like you always have a meeting with the chickens at each beginning. The fireplace looks beautiful and relaxing. I send prayers to you immediately 🙏.

[@tinakalnajs1546]

I am only 61 and I feel much the same as the previous comments. I too look forward to a new episode weekly. Much love to you Martjin from the U.S.A....

[@Pilot333]

I’’m 52 and intend to built my own house…. I should get off the Internet and get going! 😇🙏🏻🕊️ thanks for all the inspiration

[@glendacisneros982]

I'm so sorry but I have missed you for several months! I guess I got despondent seeing the troubles you went through last winter...I felt kinda like...what's the use 😢 BUT I'M BACK 😅 I'll have to go back to see what I've missed 😢. This is such an amazing video 😅

[@tammyjarvis3699]

Can’t believe how much Martijn has accomplished since the last video! It is just gorgeous!Those stairs! Wow!!! I really appreciate how he explains everything so well. Most of us will never have the opportunity to do what he’s doing so we don’t really need to know it but I love how we get to understand what exactly he’s doing and why and how it all works. We get such an education watching this channel as well as just enjoying the sheer beauty of the alps and the environment. In this episode, I could really appreciate also the amount of extra time it must taken for him to set the camera up for all the different shots. The trip to the lumber yard day and night shots etc. Certainly appreciate all his efforts.

[@pegsbarton6353]

Twenty thousand plus views already on this video but only two thousand likes....please help Martijn by remembering to press that like button. He makes such great content for us on this channel. Thank you Martijn, that fireplace and staircase is a work of art!

[@krys3692]

Good reminder!!!!

[@MrRiorust]

And don't forget to "Share"

[@small.wanders]

I watched the first episode again while I waited for this upload and every time I do it just blows me away how far you have come with this. All made by your hands, from the creativity in your head. And now this milestone! It's such a joy to observe this journey

[@user-es7mt3tt5z]

♥️♥️🇺🇦♥️♥️

[@BE-bs8oe]

Lekkere stamppot !

[@firefly01]

I did the same a couple of weeks ago.

[@allenharris2549]

I remember watching him try to stuff the gaps to keep the cold out.

[@nexte6446]

Same here. And then I think of builing out my van and freak out every time I see it. All these stones and the precision. Really hard work and such an amazing outcome.

[@sardosydney]

For all of us watching from day one, this is an important episode.. the lighting of the flame. Congratulations on your milestone Martijn, our virtual friend 🎉🎉

[@vedo.ascolto.commentotecni7345]

bella sa bandiera

[@unalnagia3530]

I am 72 years old, I have designed custom built my own homes, it is such a pleasure to watch you every week for the last two years. You are very talented, you are a very creative young men ,you are building this stone house with such TLC.

[@sydneyevans2637]

The design of the staircase going over the fireplace is stunningly beautiful and such a great use of space. The workmanship is so good that it looks like you have done it all your life. I'm truly in awe of what you have done, Mr. Doolaard.

[@gioiapharo7433]

I love this design ……. mastery

[@28reinvent]

Martijn, look at what you've done. Stone by stone, through all kinds of weather and hardship you have created a loving culture. The Chickens know it and love you for it as we do. Your world in the clouds, under the spectacle of the night sky, is the antidote for the chaos the we surface dwellers around the world have to navigate. Your story, as it grows and solidifies is a great gift of moments that reveal a new way of living and of thinking; that reflect the ancient natural way, hand in hand with the nature of the planet. Over six hundred thousand people are getting the word that your life is speaking. We can't thank you enough.

[@bergannon6585]

Beautiful words. When Martijn sparked that first flame, I teared up with joy. 😊

[@paulkennedy477]

I did to.

[@marilynjohn17]

Oh how I wish I had your courage!!! Have a lovely holiday!

[@susanadams-wauro6716]

The opening shots of the high winds brought back some awful memories of the storm you experienced this year that was so destructive to your homestead. On the other hand, how wonderful to see the fireplace glowing....well done! We adore your hens! What a cast of characters! The fact that they follow you wherever you go is a testament to the care and love you have bestowed upon them. Bravo on all fronts Martijn!! Cheers from Canada 🇨🇦

[@sarahjustesen1305]

Here is another old Grandmother sending her love and admiration. My 88 year old Italian Linguistics Professor chimes in with tears in his eyes. What a treasure you have become.

[@chelsealeonardbaum23]

By the way, thank you for the long video. An hour with Martijn feels like twenty minutes, he defies real time.

[@jamesbyron897]

I have worked in construction for the last 30 years as a welder and boiler maker. Today I am a 52-year-old sophomore studying communications and digital media design. I just want to say that I have enjoyed watching you grow and struggle through your build. There is a big difference between creating with Adobe compared to creating with your hands. You have demonstrated this nicely. Great work.

[@JuliaF60]

Wow you are in and cosey! Great Martijn ❤

[@joanwalker9809]

From time-to-time I reflect back on the video you produced about your grandfather. What a wonderful influence he must have had on your life. That influence shines beautifully through you! He would just love what you are doing ❤. Thank you for sharing, Martijin ... just think of all of us you now inspire in just the same way! Blessings ❤🙏🏼

[@susanberlin]

Wow-the first fire is quite the milestone in your journey, Martijn. Your home is really starting to take shape, and it's beautiful.

[@chriscraver4070]

Gorgeous wood burning stove with the amazing stone work and stairway. The chestnut flooring will be beautiful. I love how the chickens call out to you each morning. They know their life depends on you. Am excited to see you sleep the first night in the cabin. Your design ideas and your work ethic have made your dreams of making your home something out of the ordinary. Please everyone press that like button as soon as you turn on the next video. This man deserves that. He gives us fantastic videos each week while working incredibly hard on his projects.

[@exicunowlibra4238]

OMG! I thought watching hens thrive and lay eggs was the best. But a burning oven in a cold windy day is something else. Well done Martijn!

[@battles146]

I wonder though how he will keep the chickens warm enough now that winter is coming -

[@brendaloera8751]

Yes I have wondered the same myself. I realize they slow or stop laying during the winter but 😮How to keep his ladies warm???

[@joanwilliams346]

I’m fascinated with the progress of the stairway heading to the first floor up and over the furnace and the beauty of the stonework you have created surrounding them. Then the joy of the first fire! Thank you for the pleasure of watching your artistry.

[@wykeruedisulj2068]

What a tremendous accomplishments these days, Martijn, they sent shivers down my spine. That very first window frame now closing off the last hole in the wall, the first fire and especially the smoke coming from the chimney, the two beautiful arches over the stove windows/ doors, the stairs done more than half way up and the solid floorboards in their last stage of curing now inside the house , resting on those magnificent beams - it’s all coming to yet another level. What huge steps in becoming your home. Congratulations, Martijn, you are truly a master in many many ways.

[@davidbecquer3624]

We're so happy for you Martijn, now you can fully enjoy your sundays with a cozy fire.

[@nabil200131]

The lady by the sawmill asked : Always hard working ??? 😂So I don’t see him putting his feet up yet .

[@RandomTeq]

Martijn, is a true artist and a mutliskilled! It's amazing that his stuff is free for everyone to watch.

[@user-we6jc9dt1f]

Не деньгами едиными жив человек! Иногда хочется просто - угостить! 😊

[@bryanholden6487]

@@user-we6jc9dt1f For those of us that don't read Russian: "Man does not live by money alone! Sometimes you just want to treat!" So true! :-)

[@BalboaBaggins]

Martijn* (it's in his channel name)

[@brittawrolson5936]

Enjoyed listening to you interact with the locals in town! Their friendly hello shows you’ve become part of the community🥰

[@ajfrancis2803]

When I saw the title of this episode, I smiled so broadly my face almost cracked! And when you hitched up your trailer to the car I thought "he's going to get the floor!" and I was right! This episode is up there with many of my favourites (your parents and brothers visiting, bringing home the chickens, your hike to the top of the mountain, your bread baking, etc....). Your stone cabin is indeed becoming the charming home you had in your mind's eye and we, your fans, are living this dream with you. Thank you for bringing us along :c))

[@SuperBotanica]

We all helped build the oven - in our minds. Congratulations on your first fire!

[@boa1793]

Yeah, we were saying, “Oh yes, over there. … Just nudge it that way. … Perfect. … There’s a little gap right … there. … I’m so glad to be able to help.”

[@JackOutLoud]

I felt exactly the same way !!

[@petepeterson4540]

the first fire in the stove is always special but your right on that i too was helping build the stove but he did the stone work alone. and a good job I might add LOL I wish I could have helped.

[@duncanfrere2656]

When I first saw the smoke issuing from that copper chimney, I couldn't help but feel a true milestone in these years of astonishing videos had been crossed! The chestnut flooring, finished to the degree that we all know is your hallmark, is going to be as beautiful as your hand-carved rain gutters, copper downspouts, copper chimney, masonry stove, exquisite landscaping and all of the work you have done on the infrastructure of this beautiful homestead. The cabin is a true jewel-box, a thing of exquisite beauty which stands in testament to your aesthetic sensibilities and your work ethic. Thanks so much for this channel!

[@sharynhassard1625]

❤ beautifully said ❤

[@dottiebaker6623]

Martijn, all your hard work and painstaking attention to detail are about to pay off. Your masonry stove is SO beautiful, and you just got the first taste of how comfortable you're going to be this winter. Glad to see you approaching the physical work with thoughtfulness and safety. Well done!! This next week should put you over the top with the stove. If I were you I'd be so tempted to just move my bed in there right away, and cover it with plastic during the day. Whatever you choose, have a great week and be well.

[@catherinemerwin2678]

I really can't add to what has already been said here, but thanks so much, Martijn, for sharing your amazing journey with the rest of us. There are so many folks who are rooting for you, cheering you on and living vicariously through your realized dreams.

[@nancywhite1439]

What a stunning accomplishment Martijn! It’s beautiful. Love that the chickens follow you always with their comments and sacred blessing with precious golden eggs….thanks for your caring of them. These moments of warmth are ever visible now….the copper chimney, the shade of the turning leaves, the rising staircase, the sturdy chestnut boards, the chattering inquisitive approval of the hens, the placement of the oven door and now above all the beauty of those first fires inside this exquisite fireplace. Thanks be to God and to Martijn too!

[@P-CROZIER]

WOW Martijn, Incredible work on the Stone steps, Beautifully finnished Windows and getting the flooring inside to dry more. Absolutely Breathtaking to see You light the 1st Fire, So Great to see it coming together. As Always, Such a Pleasure to see the aerial photography of where You are Truly Blessed to live. Those eggs are Such a Gift to have. Superb workmanship again Martijn, Thank You for sharing part of Your wonderful life with Us around the World. Cannot wait to see More next week, Ciao 🙏

[@laurellussen3512]

Wow! You figured so many things beautifully! The flooring. The windows. The stairs. The stove! The weather precautions. The fire warmed us all, Martijn! thank you.

[@annrubino6252]

What a week of accomplishment! You deserve to crow with the chickens, Martijn. This has been no small undertaking and we, your followers feel full of pride, just to share your wild experience.

[@jen....]

When the weather is bad, it will be so nice to have thick stone walls around you and a blazing fire. Perfect.

[@kiwidoc9620]

As always stunning photography and so well presented. My Sundays are not complete without watching the next step in your journey. Thank you Martijn.

[@huntakilla1234]

Firing up that masonry stove for the first time is a small step for man, but a giant leap for the Doolaard homestead. She looks beautiful. I love how you used the same stones that the cabins were made out of, and staying with the original design and aesthetic. Groetjes uit Nederland 👍

[@AmedeoViscido]

Martijn, I find that a fireplace is the most relaxing thing ever... Please please please make a video just with fire burning in your stove! Natural sounds around... Would become my to-go video for relax. And I hope it can get millions of view 😊

[@mezanian]

The stonework is beyond compare, extraordinary Martijn

[@ireneaziz3996]

From Nairobi Kenya Africa... In you ,I witness a free man and a mason.. A true Freemason❤🎉

[@memmor6637]

An arch = ancient + incredible!

[@dennisbackstrom2244]

My Sunday spiritual experience now has a fireplace. You are multitalented and everything is accomplished with an artists eye. Thanks 🙏

[@marielouisemulder4647]

Thank you Martijn for making these videoos for us........great to see your patience....and determination.....and creativity....come together.....as if I am there......gives good vibes...spreading goodness....thank you.

[@mamacat315]

I love the way the chickens “talk” to Martijn in the mornings 😅 I really think they look to him as their dad! 🥰

[@girlnorthof60]

I laugh out loud when they all cackle at him to "come open this door!" and then follow him around like puppies. They have so much personality.

[@davetaylor8858]

Never thought 51 minutes could go so quickly. Another great video Martijn.

[@klazyy641]

The other commenters have said it all and I couldn't add anything more meaningful so I'll just say, well done! I always leave each episode more relaxed than when I began and seeing this first fire and smoke was a balm to my soul. Thank you for taking the time out of your days to share with us.

[@niezuhause]

Ich bin auch schon alt und habe viele Dokuserien gesehen. Aber von Martijn verpasse ich nicht eine ❗ Ich liebe seine Intelligenz, Ausdauer, Kreativität, den Umgang mit seinen Hühnern, seine Kraft, Sensibilität und seine Freundlichkeit mit den Menschen. Bitte mach weiter so 👍 🙋‍♀️🍀🍀🍀 💕

[@sherrynordan9821]

Good afternoon Martijn! What a wonderful video to see a first fire in your stone home! I’m so happy for you! And such a beautiful fireplace/oven/steps. The quality of your work is what makes your video’s so special. And one of my most favourite parts is the rain shots. That makes your videos for me. The fallen leaves have collected much to let the sun shine through the trees for winter. I hope it’s soon that you can move in since you have heat! God bless and love from Georgia 🇺🇸

[@glynnisyenketsamy3299]

I see from the comments that we are all so very very pleased with the way your vision is manifesting. It is as much a joy watching each instalment every week now, as it was at the start.

[@betsytb694]

Hi, I only discovered your channel a few months ago when someone dropped your name in the comments of "escape to rural france". You are both amazing! Small question, you want to brick the chimney pipe outside. Isn't it possible to turn that into a small shed where you can store things dry and warm? Maybe to dry your clothes in the winter? That pipe must give off enough heat to provide some warmth to a small room

[@pegsbarton6353]

What a good idea! Warm space is always going to be useful.

[@Referral_King]

Can't wait for tomorrow's episode. Watching this is as good as touching grass for mind and soul!

[@fredlarge8209]

Martijn just wanted to say your video production is terrific, well done.

[@tracyoconnor-mcgraw4952]

You can see his happiness talking about the fire ♥️ we’ll done !

[@regenytarmovies]

We have all been waiting for this, congratulations on this beautiful performance. Winter is coming now.

[@Zhenn9413]

As the saying goes “measure twice, cut once” or…….”read the instructions twice, install once”. It’s nice to see a calm and deliberate approach to DIY. Thanks for the great example.

[@user-my6bb5rb5r]

I’m sure all of us shared great satisfaction watching you light your first fire..outstanding work Martjin❤️

[@elka_futura]

Hi Martin, Your love for the detail, this feeling for the nature of the elements, this connection you make with your surroundings and what you bring in.... THANK YOU for letting us share it. I feel honored to be there. Heart greetings Elka💖

[@sanpoisson1934]

I was so worried that you would hurt your back with that heavy stone . Glad you’re a smart man and leveled out the working surface.

[@freespirit922]

Martijn, you have been showing us the best of humanity on your journey through planning, trials, & perseverance. And quiet moments of satisfaction. Will you give us a shout from the mountain top one of these days? 😊Thank you for your contribution to mankind. Blessings.

[@RT3319]

The joy and pride in your voice when you were able to light a fire and see the smoke coming from the chimney was well earned, sir. And all of it, every single bit of it, a work of art..!!! You have a right to be proud of the amazing thing you have accomplished. The local artist, that I have previously mentioned, who did the large oil painting of you with the mountains in the background, is now working on some detailed oils of the huts. Can't wait to see them. All the best, as usual, from Yakima, Washington, USA

[@janicewhite8076]

amazing. So enjoyed watching you make the stairs. When I tuned in, I was the 3rd person watching, by the time I was finished, there were nearly 19,000 views. that's how much the world loves you!

[@susandimoff3706]

Did you hear our collective sigh of relief when we helped you lift that stone you thought long and hard to get into place? 💝

[@ralfsimons8763]

Man I love these videos, in times where everything is running faster and faster they make me feel relaxed.

[@battles146]

be sure to hit the 'Like' button if you enjoyed the video! it helps Martijin bring us more of these beautiful videos of him sharing his journey with us!

[@jbart5260]

I am amazed at the range of weather patterns in one week. Snow capped mountains, high winds, sunny bright days, downpour rain, overcast skies, & fog.

[@danielfromme4432]

And even a rainbow at the beginning, like a benediction. 🙂

[@jessicareynolds4100]

I just love it when the chickens sing their “Martijn” song!

[@marcvdm1111]

I got tears in my eyes from the absolutely serene mountain shots after the storm. That type of nature is what constitutes happiness for me, having been with my family my entire youth in the alps and being a passionate mountaineer (and rock climber). Go figure, coming from probably the flattest country in the world. It's all about your father's passion in life.

[@JakobKaiserCreative]

What a journey, man. Found your channel around part 3 of the series, it's been an absolute joy to follow along.

[@williamsimmons8927]

A colossal achievement is in the works, the stone work on the heath, oven and stairs is first rate, your meticulous care in placement and selection of each piece of stone is paying off in the uniformity in the flow and pattern of your masonry, I grew up in a mason family , besides block brick and tile work stone and slate were our specialist in alter fire places hearths, I so enjoy your persistence and discipline in the art, thank you for a memorable video series, your a very creative artisan.

[@bart9886]

When you watch your videos since day one (like I do), I have to say I feel so proud. Not that I even touched one brick, it still feels like I build this thing together with you. It even feels like I walked with you towards your standard beautiful spots in the mountains. Martijn, I just have to say. You can be so proud for this inmense masterpiece you are making. Every episode it gets better and more home. Thank you for sharing this beautiful adventure and good luck! Greetings from Nijmegen, Nederland 🇳🇱

[@yummboy2]

It is difficult to decide which I enjoy more, watching an artisan at work or seeing the incredible mountain vistas. Both are real treats!

[@evilempire1808]

Mastering fire, having fire is what humanizes us. Having fire is what makes a place a home. If we continue to maintain respect for creation even though we are different, it dignifies us. I'm glad you finally have the basics for your winter move. This one isn't going to be that hard. Best regards.

[@Harry1s]

That was so awesome to see you lite that first fire! Your smile proved how happy you were. Can't wait to see the finished product. Great job!!!

[@SoozTalkWorthTelling]

Naturally, your calm nature wouldn’t jump up and down and cheer for joy when you first closed that oven door, so I did it for you. 👏😀👏 It warms my heart to know you are proud how all your planning was spot on. Doolaard family, plz click “like” if you too gave out a cheer 😀 👏

[@denisfrancine3221]

I love the sound of the chickens calling out to you in the morning> Your stone stairway is truly a piece of art!

[@LoreleiHome]

Watching this cabin come to life is such a joy. First fire in that massive fireplace! What a milestone!!! This is my Sunday morning indulgence before the day starts on the farm. I must say it is an inspiration to watch your patience, thoroughness and methodical approach. I wonder what it will be like for you to wake up in that space and know you have touched every stone and built so much of it yourself, placing each part with care. The building is almost like a meditation. I approach everything with the end goal foremost in my mind and am impatient to get there. Your approach has consciousness in each small step. This must lead to a better, more harmonious outcome. Thank you for this profound lesson.

[@janicemarsh1669]

It is a meditation. I am in the present moment as I am engrossed with the story.

[@Monitschka]

Such a milestone to have fire in the home. It remembers me installing a soapstone stove years ago in a former house. This was peanuts compared to your masonry. Thank you for sharing your journey. For sharing the silence, the peace, the beauty of the mountains, the cute chat of the hens, your precise work. I could watch whole days long.

[@sandrakennedy2153]

Yes, the beauty he brings into every episode makes me want to go to Italy. We have hills here in Mohican country in Ohio, but those mountains are gorgeous. I look forward to seeing his video every Sunday.

[@robinievoli5085]

You accomplish so much each week Martijin, it is a joy to see the inside of the cabin coming together. Seeing the fire is so heartwarming!

[@stephaniegaromon3244]

What beautiful stonework you are doing. The stove, walls, and staircase are truly a work of art. The wood you selected for the floors will be stunning. Seeing the smoke come out of the chimney made me feel so good for you, for the first time your cottage is very close to being a home. I love your channel. I think watching you is the most peaceful time of my week. Thank you for taking us on your incredible journey.

[@42apprentice]

What an achievement. The whole fire build is beautiful and it was quite moving to see smoke curl from that old roof.

[@johnnyghia]

That stove is a masterpiece. Stunning altogether.

[@HeikeWoolard]

First Fire...how amazing and how far you have come. The stove is absolutely beautiful. Your house is slowly coming together nicely.

[@cathiesullivan]

Still loving your posts after two+ years. I agree with others that you have incredible talent and vision, not to mention being so sensitive to what is living and breathing around. Again, many thanks for the shots of night sky... those shooting stars and the mountain sides during daylight, magnificent! Keep them coming Martijn❤👏👏👏

[@LindaSwilley-mz3vo]

Oh Martijn!!! Your work takes my breath away! You have reaped the rewards of your labor and that includes the amount of eggs you are now gathering in the mornings...its all coming together so nicely❤❤❤❤❤

[@ricoesnell1176]

Would love to see your 100th episode as a reflective look back at your journey so far, highlights, lowlights etc.

[@reeft]

Wow, the contrast of the first snowfall with the first fire after all this time was a beautiful way to end off this video.

[@janiedillingham3190]

Wo hoo!! The first fire was excellent! So excited for you, Martijn!! No more cold winter nights, getting up in the middle of the night to stoke the little tent stove just so you don't freeze to death before morning. Even your little hens are happy, giving you eggs every morning. It's truly a work of art, this life you are building for yourself.

[@cynwalts771]

The fire and the stairway look fabulous. Truly a magical place. Your hard and meticulous work shows through. I could watch you 7 nights a week lol.

[@raquelhernandez1733]

The first fire! What a long journey! Congratulations, Martijn for letting us be part of this awesome adventure! I know there's still a lot of work ahead, but compared to the beginning, you've done a lot! It looks beautiful.

[@micheledion5987]

Inspirational. I began watching your videos a year ago, have not missed one . So much beauty within, the way you compose them, photography and music. And to see your work progress. It is an hour I look forward to each week. Thank you.

[@adamswift1747]

By far the longest films I watch on KZbin. But they're never long enough.

[@emilecousineau1464]

Wow, wow...can't find the words to say how beautiful all the work, the scenery, the filming. We always look forward to Sundays. It looks so cozy with that amazing fireplace. Love the chickens the way they "talk" to you. Congratulations on all your hard work. 👏 See you next Sunday. Dag, groetjes from Canada.

[@alicekenworthy9603]

What joy and satisfaction you must experience as you look at your stone steps, your stonework around your fireplace, the cured stunning floor boards and the final installation of the window …… and to top it all the first fire 🔥 Well done on everything Martijn!!Durban SA 🇿🇦

[@marilynswartz8854]

I don't usually comment on videos on KZbin. I have been following you throughout your restoration of this fascinating ruin. It broke my heart when the high winds took down your yurt and outdoor kitchen. I know that set you back. It nearly made me cry. I wanted to come help you rebuild. What you've accomplished is amazing and so are you. I was so proud to see you were able to start your first fire in your beautiful fireplace! Congratulations! ❤

[@Vegathlete]

The hearth is the heart, providing warmth and nutrition for the mind, body, and soul.

[@musicalBurr]

I disagree about the chimney. IMHO the only reason that it looks "too much" is because it hasn't patinaed yet. I think if it were green, it would look fine without the rock enclosure you mentioned, plus it will keep it more easily accessible incase you need to get at it for any reason. Furthermore, the rest of your structures all have a purpose, even if they are beautifully designed and built, where as a rock enclosure to cover the chimney's ONLY purpose would be aesthetic, which seems at odds with everthing else you've done. Just a thought for you to consider.

[@markvanoosterhout5074]

I can imagine how happy you must have been with that first fire, Martijn. Be proud of yourself. Keep up the good work!

[@SarahGBriggs]

What a milestone to be lighting the fire! The cabin starts to look like a home with smoke coming out of the chimney. I love how your chickens are so curious about whatever you're doing. What a joy it is to watch your videos each week. Thank you!

[@geraldreed1612]

For the first time watching on TV set seeing commercials....why? Do you get paid for the ads... I'm 85 ...watching for the past 2 yrs and being a handyman myself know how talented you are not only your ability but more so for your depth of talent in so many areas ...artist, architect, masonry, carpenter, electrician, videographer, photographer.....list goes on...just returned from Italy...should have visited... maybe next trip if there is one... thanks for the entertainment....makes the hour I spend on the elliptical go fast... thank you for the pleasure you bring to so many....Dr. Reed

[@karenhantsche9270]

Chickens, copper chimney, chestnut floorboards....what is not to love about this whole place? So amazing what Martijn has done in such an incredible year! Snug and with no dormouse!