One of the high points(and there were many) of the summer was working with Sam, the oldest (13) grandson. He originally took the job because he could earn some money and he had been a camper and wood worker for many summers. But once he got started, he gravitated to the camper who needed some extra help; he knew how to offer his help just at the right moment, encouraged the effort and celebrated the completion of the project. Few adults have such talents in working with other people but Sam nailed it every time. I know I sound like a grand parent but I saw Sam through the eyes of an educator; and what I saw was truly outstanding. He made the summer very special.
Below, a bird house constructed entirely with by the camper, designed, constructed and painted. Just how neat is this.
Had a good summer with wood working-actually had a good summer with several hundred projects completed and sent home with happy campers-now if I just had a good feeling about the parent's views. But had one girl make a chair for her sister, another boy made a bench for his sister's American Girl Doll. The painting was an experience in its self-many projects had enough paint that they probably are still not dry!! It is amazing what young people can think of as they build a shelf, a box or a bench. I did provide some patterns and kits but what happened to these when an imagination took over was really cool.
Check out the striped bird house, the bench with the stars and, yes, a basketball goal!!!! And check out the box beside goal.
Carved some Santas and roughed out some shorebirds but time was so tight that didn't even get any fishing in. (Pictures come later) Will get back on a schedule of carving every day. Met some interesting people at several "Artisan" Events, several excellent carvers, goggle Brian Stockman and look at some of his work. I met a log furniture maker from Maine-he makes some great lamps with home made shades of bear, moose and fly fishermen. He asked me to come up with a bear pattern for his lamps; hard to find a log that can be carved and look like his lamps but will come up with something. I promise to be a more consistent writer and keep everyone updated.
Just remember two things: 1. Measure twice, cut once and 2. If it doesn't fit, get a bigger hammer!
Peace to all.
Nelson
