Virtual Ship's Log from Captain Hammer

'Cause I don't have enough to do already

Saturday, May 21, 2011

New Old Camp Stove Technology

Here is a crude alcohol stove I made from a mint tin and a coffee can. It uses denatured alcohol (which is available at any hardware store), burns clean, won't explode, and is very light and portable. This one burns very hot and burns out very quickly; my next one will have a larger resevoir (made out of a bigger mint tin) and smaller holes to make it last longer. This little thing will come in handy when there is a burn ban (which is about half the time, here in central Texas).

Saturday, May 7, 2011

Urban Gladiators, New for Summer 2011!


Whether you're wielding a net and trident against a hungry lion or just fighting the crowds on mass transit for an afternoon at your favorite bodega, these DIY cut-up Reebok demi-sandals are your best bet for keeping your tootsies cool and protected. Equally fitted for training cross-country or training to slaughter Christians, their vaguely Romanesque lines and 21st century materials make them your next favorite footwear!

Sunday, May 1, 2011

Pioneer Farms, Austin



I spent some time this weekend volunteering at Pioneer Farms here in Austin. It is a collection of very old buildings, period farm tools (and a working blacksmith shop), and some animals for the kids to visit. Great place, and neat history.
I could definitely see myself living on a small piece of land in a house this size. With my wife and no kids, that is. This farmhouse belonged to German immigrants in the 1850's. Herr and Frau Kruger lived here with their 13 kids. The daughters slept in the loft, and sons slept outside on the porch!