Hey all:

I want to share with  you something that has been happening to me for the last
5-6 years or so.

I am 66 and have been building stuff out of wood since before I was a teenager.
I have built houses and additions, boats big and small, furniture of all types,
musical instruments, kitchen cabinets, fancy flooring, soap box derby racers,
garden enhancements, and a bit of everything that has come along.  I have always
built things because it was fun and at times profitable.  I have used hand tools
and, in my earlier years, m*ch*n*s.  I have always felt s sense of pride and
accomplishment at various stages through a project, and that is what has kept me
going.

But lately, for the last few years, I have felt at times an overwhelming sense
of joy.  My latest project is a perfect example.  It is a white oak guitar with
plenty of bling, and at 3 stages during construction I have spontaneously burst
out in laughter with a mental high that rivals anything I have bfelt so far.
This morning was the fourth time when I got back a part of this guitar that I
collaborated on with a local artist.  This feeling lasts for a couple of hours
and is among the most deeply satisfying feelings I have had - rivaling family
highs.

Has anyone else felt this joyous emotion with your woodwork or other
trade/craft/hobby?

I know, no pictures - it didn’t happen.  In about a week you will get more
pictures than you need.

Ed Minch