Began as a little boy on beaches like this
Imagine being a ten year old boy with a sharp jackknife and all day to mess around on a beach like this. Is it any wonder that I grew up to be a wood whore. These beaches are filled with western red cedar, alaska cedar, alder, maple, Juniper, madrona, willow, birch and birch bark on which you can write letters and fashion tiny canoes. chunks of wood with the marks of beavers teeth on the ends, Once in a while a piece of teak or mahogany from wrecked boats, Just an absolute treasure trove for a wood lover. I whittled pirates swords, fish, lots and lots of boats, bows and arrows, there was no limit to what one could create or build from the driftwood on San Juan Island beaches.
And even today, 73 years later, the detritus of the beaches fascinates. The beauty of stones and driftwood stimulate the creative juices. Beauty is everywhere, in every glance.
 |  |
So it is back to the workshop tomorrow with creative juices recharged. It is always thus when you return to those creative inspirations of your youth.
