Robert F. Lee

Fairy tales are escapes into wondrous worlds. It is only our inflexible adult reasoning that tells us that they are just for children. Fables, too, are disdainfully disregarded by grown-ups, in spite of the valuable life lessons that they often provide. It is only yarns and tall tales that are permitted to dwell in the structured world of the adult. I have compiled this collection of silly, inconsequential stories and poems to satisfy the child in any of us that has been handicapped by active imagination, and has been unable to fully embrace the responsible, pedantic adult world. A few of these little stories were written for my children, as they journeyed from childhood, to adolescence to adulthood. I hope that the tales have allowed them to avoid becoming staid grownups. A few of these yarns were written for staid adults. I am glad to say that they, for a few moments anyway, were able to become irresponsible children again. A couple - specifically, the romantic poems - were written for my wife, who I hope will not be terribly upset that I have shared private thoughts with the world. Many were written just for me. No reason, other than that I like being a perpetual child. For those of you who dare to explore wondrous worlds, even if you do so in the secrecy of your own hidden sanctums, I welcome you to my haven. Please enjoy, and thank you

Today's commercially available yurts largely are flexible wall units, with lattice forming the "frame" of the walls, and studs resting on an aircraft cable strung along the top of the lattice. They are lightweight, but, by that definition, are vulnerable to the elements and to wildlife. Although defined as portable, they require a full day to set up, using three or more people. Their insulation (optional) generally is Mylar bubble insulation and windows are heavy plastic. The yurt concept in this set of plans calls for rigid insulation walls, readily available materials, glass windows, standard-sized door, and a very lightweight, truly portable design. Although the yurt plan is sized for a 16-foot diameter unit, size can be scaled up or down quite readily. Total material cost generally is less than $1,500. Typically, one person can cut all the pieces needed to size in less than 40 hours. To assemble the unit requires one person and three or four hours. To disassemble takes two hours. The guide includes numerous photographs of a sample yurt being built. Also included are discussions of problems with many yurts (and solutions), ideas on plumbing, heating, interior finish and power.