[Donna_T]

Hi all,

My husband retired from 3M after 30 years 3 years ago. I've been a Chamber of Commerce Exec, Economic Development Director, Hospital asst. administrator, and CAO of a large not-for-profit community action agency. After my kids got out of college, I started school and completed my Masters two years ago. I'm 59 and not retired--work 4 part-time jobs: Student Services Counselor for a community college, adjunct faculty for two community colleges, and clerical work during the tax season for a local tax preparer. Our three kids range in age of 30 to 40. The brightest spot in my life is the grandkids who range from 2 months to 19 years--there are 6 of them. I live on a farm in rural SW Missouri.

Well, what is there to say...I've been working at learning how to carve for about 15 years now. I started immediately after our youngest daughter finished high school (FINALLY....I had time to do something besides go to ballgames, concerts, plays, board meetings, etc.) I enjoy carving animals and santas specifically and am trying to learn how to do birds -- large and small, although I have done some fair relief, fish, and caricatures. Once I got a little confidence in my basic carving ability, I have taken workshops from Harold Enlow, Debbe Edwards, John ENgler, Gerald Copeland, Phil Bishop, Wanda Marsh, Steve Brown, and David Sabol. I learned lots from each.

Like all the others, I enjoy this board and have learned so much from each person who posts here. It always makes me feel like I have gained 100 or so new carving friends from all over North America. We're comfortable enough here that we don't guard our identities too much--and we are quick to respond to any need from our fellow carvers.

I don't get to carve as much as I have at times--but think it's the greatest therapy on earth!!

Donna T

[mdallensr]

Great post! I think we're two peas in a pod. Same age, Chamber, Econ. Development, lots of other involvement with kids activities and BOD's. I carve for relaxation and because I really enjoy working with wood, by hand. My wife gave me the starting tools and lessons for Christmas several years ago, to help me forget about work, and I've been hooked since then. Best gift I've ever had! I carve in a weekly class from October through April and carve on my own the rest of the time, as time permits. I've really enjoyed your posts and the way you encourage others on this board. I think it's great the way "newbies" are welcomed on this board, and it probably has a lot to do with the success of the board. Keep on carving, posting and inspiring the rest of us. Mike