Backscratcher

This lovely backscratcher is being delivered to the post office this morning.  We hope it'll be enjoyed at its new home, but we couldn't let it leave without a few photos since every piece that comes out of the forge is different, you know! 

BGOV Hammer-In

Hammer-Ins are blacksmithing get-togethers which usually include a demonstration by a master blacksmith, "tailgating" (buying coal, tools, books, etc... from vendors or each other), lots of good food, and a bunch of hanging out with other blacksmiths.   And, posing in front of 1200 pound anvils. 

I had a great time at a Hammer-In yesterday with my buddies Curt Welch and Michael Rininger (our beekeeper/gardening friend).   I drove 5 hours, but it was well worth it.  I came home totally excited about trying some new things out in the forge. 

And, since I saw Michael I also brought home non-blacksmithing goodies -- beautiful, rolled beeswax candles and lots of comfrey, which we've already planted.  Last summer, my wife learned how to make healing salves from comfrey, and it'll be great for her to be able to make them here at home, if the plants take. 

Meet Jeff, the Blacksmith (Circa March 2008)

Here is a blast from the past! 

It sure looks smokey, doesn't it?

Clearly, beginning blacksmiths aren't terribly good at building fires in the forges!

And, I would know, because I was one of those beginning blacksmiths in March of 2008. (The photo quality is terrible, but I am the 2nd person on the left).  I came home with all sorts of impressive tools that I had crafted (some I am still using!), and a smile on my face.  It's cool to think back and reflect on how far I have come since then - and how far I still have to go!

Mike Tanner's Guy Welding Portable Forge

I found this photo online of one of Mike Tanner's guys making the portable coal forge I have.  It was neat to find a shot of it in process.