See saws

My saws are finished, and I have to say that I am pleased with the results. I built them from a kit (blade already cut, but that's about it) from Tools for Working Wood. One is sharpened for rip, one for crosscut. I used some of the maple left over from the girls' bed for the handles, and finished them with oil and wax. Now I need a new project to use them on. Maybe a boat?

Some favorite photos

Move Over Eddie Merckx, There's a New Show In Town

She did it. Amelia now rides a "two-wheeler." She took to it amazingly fast, probably from the excellent teaching she received. We use a European method our neighbor turned us on to: low seat, take off the pedals, balance first, then put the pedals back on. Works brilliantly. Just look how excited she is!

A walk in the woods

This started out as a day turkey hunting. It ended up being a day carrying my bow through the woods looking for turkeys, mushrooms, and enjoying the sunshine. God truly outdid himself this day.

Kids' Rooms

Jen finished the kids' rooms this weekend, and they turned out great! The girls got new paint, new bunk beds (thanks to moi,) and new curtains (thanks to Beth.) Garrett got half new paint, and a camping theme complete with a bed tent. She did awesome! The kids were so excited, and I was happy to be done with the beds (see previous post...)

Before

After

And now Garrett's room

Before

After

Nice job Jen! M

I've killed the albatros

Finally. The bunk beds are finished. This project has hung around my neck like the proverbial albatros (can anyone figure out where this reference comes from? Bonus points to any that do: leave your answer in the comments section.) Nevermore! They are finished, all except the ladder, which is on the docket for today. The kids slept in them last night, and reported that it was the best night ever. Jackpot. Of course, the beds also have mattresses and sheets and such, it's just that this pic shows the lines best. M

Conner Prairie

Spring Break was fantastic! The first weekend we traveled to Connor Prairie, just outside of Indianapolis. They recreate the 19th century from two different years, 1836, and 1886, with the "frontier" of Indiana. Costumed interpreters, period clothing, animals galore, and everything is hands on. The kids (and we) had a blast! We couldn't have asked for better behaved children, or a better vacation.