I have always liked working with my hands and have always had a lot of patience when it comes to fixing things or completing projects for my family. When I was young I would take things apart to see how they worked and if it was broken I would try to fix it or make it into something else.

I started working with wood for the most part after retiring two years ago and moving to my retirement home in the 1000 islands in Upstate NY. Our new home was built on a property overlooking Lake Ontario where there was already a two and a half car garage in which I built my shop. I have slowly been adding some more tools and woodworking equipment.

Most of my projects have been things for the shop: benches, shelves, cabinets, etc. Someday I hope to build some other projects and maybe small furniture pieces. After working for a local municipality for 33 years it's nice to have the time to work in my new shop. I recently added a full size tablesaw and a table-top bandsaw which have been very handy. I enjoy watching YouTube woodworking videos and reading woodworking magazines, as they are a great source of information for techniques, safety and worthwhile projects.

It's a great feeling making something from wood and then finishing it. Whether it's fine furniture or a bird house it's something that will last and can be handed down. I know that over time my shop will evolve into a place of relaxation and pride as I am able to spend more time making things or just puttering.