Winter is winding down and spring, or what passes for spring here, in Maine is just around the corner. The weather will bounce around some and then, maybe by late May, it’ll be summer with it’s long days and full out pace. 

Winter work was not what I’d planned: personal boat projects, home maintenance and some home up-grades along with a few client projects were all back burnered as I dove into a new van build. Our personal van was totaled last November. Rear ended on the interstate so building a new rig for us has been all consuming. As a friend said “Bill’s not Bill without a van”.

I’m also thinking about the work I might do and my pace out in the shop after this summer. I’ve been at this woodworking thing for more then 45 years now, so it’s time to step back and revisit my goals and priorities. I started off in the 70’s as a house framer and remodeler then transitioned to shop based projects with a focus on designing custom cabinets and furniture.  Twenty five years ago I added designing and building boats and teaching to the mix.

I’m still interested in the same things, working with my hands, designing and building, mostly in wood but need to find more time to travel and be outside.  I’ve already gotten really good at drawing out the morning coffee time in front of the wood stove. That’s clearly the first step in slowing down.

Going forward I’m thinking my work days might look much the same, perhaps with a stronger focus on designing and building furniture.  I’ve got some designs and ideas rolling around in my head, things I’d like to build. I’d also consider another client van build, maybe. And I’ll keep teaching thought I’m planning on doing all these things at a curtailed pace. 

Outside the shop it’s been an open winter in our neck of the woods and I’ve stayed mostly local. Despite the pull of getting the van done. I have walked and spent time outside each day and kept up my Sunday habit of longer outside time. No big trips though. Not until later in the spring, not until we have our new van on the road. So, I’ll see you in class or on the road and perhaps I can design and build something for you. At any rate, let's keep in touch.

BIll Thomas