When Brenna was younger, she often asked Robert and I about how to make one. After all, we did have a big tree in the farthest corner of the back yard, so why couldn't we build it up there? It would have been her hide-away, her special space to play, dream, imagine. Since then, the coveted tree was deemed unstable, so we had it taken down, especially in the wake of Hurricane Sandy which left it tilted dangerously toward our house. But it could have been an aspiring project to create an escape not-so-far-away from home, a wonderful way to expand living space on the property for young and old to enjoy, granted the municipality allows such a structure and the tree (or trees) is sturdy enough to withstand lots of traffic. Because if you are lucky enough to build such an abode, well, you will be lucky enough to have lots of company!

I find treehouses fascinating... Be In A Treehouse, the new book available this week by arboreal architect Pete Nelson, also of Animal Planet’s Treehouse Masters, explores newer projects in this comprehensive storehouse of inspiration. If you are familiar with Nelson's labor, you know his passion has carved two previous works - New Treehouses of the World and Home Tree Home: Principles of Treehouse Construction and Other Tall Tales. Among the trio, you will be filled with enchantment and wanderlust while exploring this craft gaining more acclaim in today's DIY society.

From Nelson's books and a little internet hike, take a look at some of these magnificent, elegant, and quaint abodes that take camping up to a whole other level.