What's the name of that short story?

Around 35 years ago I read a lengthy short story about a fellow who decided to live in the wilderness. He found a spot on the shore of a lake. Spent a couple of years building a cabin. Later he advertised for a wife, found someone. Eventually he also built his own float plane.

Odd bits: spent the first winter or two sleeping in the open. Described how he'd sleep until the side away from the fire got chilled, then he'd wake, stoke the fire, turn over, and go back to sleep. Also noted how when he was doing a task and thinking about something, the same thoughts would recur when doing the task again later.

Anyone know the name or the author? Thanks.

EV