Summer in the Workshop, Garden and Woods

I hope to get out in the woods more this summer, as well as in the garden, and put more time in at the workbench. These long days allow it, and so much to see. We just passed the feast day of St John the Baptist on June 24th. The church year has placed the celebration of ‘the forerunner’ at the moment in the cycle of the year when the natural light it at it’s height, and then decreases, even as the grain ripens, the fruit swells, and various birds and animals enjoy (and sometimes suffer) in the heat. John the Baptist, the forerunner of Jesus, who said of his cousin the true light that was coming into the world, ‘He must increase, but I must decrease.’ (John 3:30)

What in you needs to decrease, so that the truer ‘you’ that is hidden in Christ and being renewed and made whole might increase?

Maybe taking a look around will help you notice what might be happening for you in that way.

I encountered this fella, and countless others recently, perhaps enjoying the summer heat and humidity on some pavement.

And for a sense of scale,

Blueberries are looking nice in the places I’ve been lately!

I’m working on a few projects you are welcome to observe or assist with. I’d be happy to adapt most projects into a lesson and opportunity to try out a skill or tool, should you stop by the workshop. These include a ‘scrappy’ coffee table of black cherry and reclaimed fir and pine, an artistic candle-stand, and a ‘scrappy’ wooden box of reclaimed hardwoods. The box will eventually have a stained glass cover. But for now, its carving, fitting and planing into shape.

This summer Tuesdays 2-5 and Fridays 9:30-5 I should be there, just call ahead to make sure. Then I can also have some hot or cold soft drinks ready. You’re welcome to visit, chat, work, learn, teach, or just hang around a bit.

We could even read some scripture or pray the evening office if you’re into that sort of thing!