Trying to get back in to the groove

     Now that 2018 is in full swing, I have realized how fast time can fly when you are not just plowing forward. This is the 3rd year in a row in which I have had a busy and fretful March. It was only 2 years ago that my sister passed away very quickly. We were able to fly back and visit family, but it was an agonizing trip as my father continued to slip away. Between the Alzheimer's, high blood pressure, several heart attacks, and other health issues, we knew his time was coming to an end. 
     Then last year I had major shoulder surgery after a torn rotator cuff needed repair. It is still not back to 100% and may never be, but I am working on it every day. Some days it feels stronger and other days it seems as if it is just stuck and that is as far as its going to progress. I hope not, as I have plans to enjoy my children and grandchildren (whenever they happen to show up). 
     Then this year, my father finally passed. His death, too, was very quick, even though we knew it was coming and had known that for several years. We received the notification on a Saturday, and he passed that Wednesday. Luckily we had the chance to go back and visit, and be there for my father's funeral. As sad as it was, I had a chance to do several things I love doing: catching up with my older brother, who I greatly love; catch up with some cousins who were able to come and visit and be there for us as we laid my father to rest; visit the carving shop at Smoky Mountain Woodcarvers in Townsend, Tennessee (absolutely love that place, and always purchase more than I should); and visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, specifically Cades Cove. That is one of my all-time favorite places for my wife and I to visit.  
     As soon as we returned, our annual Idaho Artistry in Wood Show started on Friday, with set-up and judging, then the public getting a chance to see the entries and displays for our show.
     All told, it was a very busy couple of weeks, but now that it is spring break from school, maybe I can get some rest, come to grips with the loss of my father (now both of my parents are gone, as well as my sister), and get back on track.
     So, a few pictures of some carvings and some of our show.

One of my creations.

A golfer I liked carving.

Another golfer I carved.

A display of some of my past carvings at the show.

Some of the intarsia entries at the show.

Our display table at the show.

Some random entries at the show.

I loved this carving of this bird and its nest, by Susan Villaneuva.

Two of mine, the Civil War soldiers and a viking.

A bird carving by Larry Crist.

     I will be teaching a wood spirit walking stick class in May. If anyone wants to take it contact the Woodcraft store in Boise. I have a list of commissions (and donations) as well as carving for the Sons of Norway show in December. Gotta love it. I enjoy carving and seeing others enjoy purchasing (or receiving) one of my carvings. Makes me smile!

     Adios! Adieu! Arriva Derci! Dosvidanya! Tchuss! See ya!!!