Bringing back raw logs from an up-island sawmill, I got to work accurately laying out the mortise and tenons to create a set of timber-framed arches for a garden pergola. A chainsaw, broad hatchet, pull saw, wide slick and chalkline were my tools. With the poles firmly planted into the ground, a laser guided the holes for tensioned stainless steel cables overhead. A fence, gate and built-in bench complement the structure. I hope to return in a few years and admire and pick a few kiwis off this pergola...
