Our summer of retail shows has arrived. Last summer we decided to apply to one retail show--and that later translated into four. We are scheduled to take part in the Salem Art Fair, Bellevue ArtFair, and San Francisco ACC. We are on the waiting list for Art in the Pearl. This will be augmented by a week in Montana visiting family, with both daughters coming . The nice part--Erika is going to meet us in Bellevue, help with the show, then ride to Kalispell with us. Steph, Jacques and the three grandkids are going to Montana for a reunion of Steph's sorority, then driving up to Kalispell. We are excited about seeing Elliott, Amelia and Samone. The girls are just starting to crawl.
Bill is busy getting new work for Bellevue and San Francisco. We had planned to have several bright colored tables, but . . . they all were sold at our Las Vegas show, so he is making all new ones. On Monday we picked up our wood that had been infused. He is currently cutting out tables and has several commissions to finish up also.
The Salem Art Fair is the first. While it is pretty close by, I am not going to go to it; Bill will handle it himself. I will stay home and store up energy for the next week in Bellevue and trip to Montana. San Francisco is two weeks later; we will have time to come home and wash our clothes before we are off again. So lots of things to look forward to in the next 6 weeks.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Saturday, June 13, 2009
The Bridge
Hoover Dam has served as a bridge between Nevada and Arizona since it was built. As a child, I had always heard of this manmade wonder, and three years ago I finally got to see it. But the wonder to see is high in the sky above the river and dam--a bridge.
The four lane freeway leading to the bridge is complete. They are still working on the bridge. Two years ago just the parts near the edge were visible and could be seen. Last year, tall masts and a bit of the curved portion were there. This year, it actually ooked like it would one day be a bridge. It is massive! It is high! (I don't know if I will be able to cross over on it--I am afraid of heights.) But it is a piece of our engineering that will rank up there with the Hoover Dam and Golden Gate Bridge. And we saw it being built!
Friday, June 12, 2009
Sin City, here we come!
We off. Las Vegas, ready or not, we are coming.
Down I-5 to Eugene. Take a left, over Willamet Pass, right to Klamath Falls. Now which exit did we take to find the Fred Meyer Fuel Stop? Where's the closest restroom? Let's splurge with a maple bar for Nan, a cherry turnover for Bill. On the road again.
Into California, down lonely roads with little traffic, but beautiful scenery to Susanville, then on to Reno.
Quick stop for gas, then desert driving to Hawthorne and our stop for the night, El Capitan Motel. This army depot town has nothing to redeem it but the McDonalds where we had breakfast last year, and will again this year. The locals are what make it worth visiting. They each bring their own coffee cup, the manager brings out a pot of coffee for them to share, and they solve the world's problems. This year they were worried about how many miles they would have to go to have their GM or Chrysler car repaired. Seven elderly men and one women who appeared to work in a local clinic. My question. . .why would anyone live in such a desolute place?
But we are on to Las Vegas to see the lights and hopefully make some money, the non-gambling kind.
We arrive about 1:30 pm, get in line at the convention center to unload. At exactly 2pm, as promised, they begin to let us in, unload our displays and merchandise onto a fork lift, take it to our booth. Now it's up to us to make it look presentable. We get things set up, lights up, and decide it's time for our annual trip to Hoover Dam. Stay tuned for the next installment . . .
Down I-5 to Eugene. Take a left, over Willamet Pass, right to Klamath Falls. Now which exit did we take to find the Fred Meyer Fuel Stop? Where's the closest restroom? Let's splurge with a maple bar for Nan, a cherry turnover for Bill. On the road again.
Into California, down lonely roads with little traffic, but beautiful scenery to Susanville, then on to Reno.
Quick stop for gas, then desert driving to Hawthorne and our stop for the night, El Capitan Motel. This army depot town has nothing to redeem it but the McDonalds where we had breakfast last year, and will again this year. The locals are what make it worth visiting. They each bring their own coffee cup, the manager brings out a pot of coffee for them to share, and they solve the world's problems. This year they were worried about how many miles they would have to go to have their GM or Chrysler car repaired. Seven elderly men and one women who appeared to work in a local clinic. My question. . .why would anyone live in such a desolute place?
But we are on to Las Vegas to see the lights and hopefully make some money, the non-gambling kind.
We arrive about 1:30 pm, get in line at the convention center to unload. At exactly 2pm, as promised, they begin to let us in, unload our displays and merchandise onto a fork lift, take it to our booth. Now it's up to us to make it look presentable. We get things set up, lights up, and decide it's time for our annual trip to Hoover Dam. Stay tuned for the next installment . . .
Getting Ready for Las Vegas
On May 28th we leave for Las Vegas to participate in the ACRE (American Craft RetailersExpo) show. It is a for-the -trade only show. This is the third year for the show, and we have been there each year. So we sort of know our way around, have favorite places to go, to see.
Preparing for a show takes aot of work from both of us. I make lists of everything we make, make price cards for them, make sure all our office stuff is in the backback, the cords to charge the phones, the camera,lots of essential little things. Bill makes sure we have every sample, packs them up in the van. We get the van washed, get the oil changed, plan our itenerary, make hotel reservaations. Whew! I am going to be busy.
Preparing for a show takes aot of work from both of us. I make lists of everything we make, make price cards for them, make sure all our office stuff is in the backback, the cords to charge the phones, the camera,lots of essential little things. Bill makes sure we have every sample, packs them up in the van. We get the van washed, get the oil changed, plan our itenerary, make hotel reservaations. Whew! I am going to be busy.
The weeks in between shows . . . .
These two lovlies are the latest additions to our family. Meet Samone and Amelia!
They are our grandaughters, now six months old. We first met them in February after the Philadelphia show (they live in Miami) and now are looking forward to seeing them and their brother, Elliott, in Montana in July.
Besides photos of tables and boxes, the girls and Elliott have their photos taken alot, and then sent to Grandma and Grandpa.
They are our grandaughters, now six months old. We first met them in February after the Philadelphia show (they live in Miami) and now are looking forward to seeing them and their brother, Elliott, in Montana in July.
Besides photos of tables and boxes, the girls and Elliott have their photos taken alot, and then sent to Grandma and Grandpa.
Off to the Photographer!
After the Portland show, it was time to have photos taken of the new items we had completed.
DAN KVITKA is our photographer of choice. He's good; knows what he's doing, takes photos
so we can use them many ways, and we have a history with him. In his former life Dan was a world-class wood turner, and a friend.
Photos are the lifeblood of today's artists and craftspeople. We post our photos on our web page, on wholesalecrafts.com, send them to customers to use in advertising, for selling, and they are a must for applying to shows, submitting for publication. It is so nce to be able to call up a photo of something someone wants to see. The teal boxes shown, Limited Edition Toledo, are made with a handcrafted slumped glass handle. The box has been made from spalted maple that is infused with an acrylic and color. The blue box is the Beaver, another Limited Edition.
DAN KVITKA is our photographer of choice. He's good; knows what he's doing, takes photos
so we can use them many ways, and we have a history with him. In his former life Dan was a world-class wood turner, and a friend.
Photos are the lifeblood of today's artists and craftspeople. We post our photos on our web page, on wholesalecrafts.com, send them to customers to use in advertising, for selling, and they are a must for applying to shows, submitting for publication. It is so nce to be able to call up a photo of something someone wants to see. The teal boxes shown, Limited Edition Toledo, are made with a handcrafted slumped glass handle. The box has been made from spalted maple that is infused with an acrylic and color. The blue box is the Beaver, another Limited Edition.
Woodworkers Show in Portland
The Guild of Oregon Woodworkers and the Northwest Fine Woodworkers held a show at the Oregon Convention Center in Portland along with shows by the potters, metal artists, fiber artist, bead makers. It was a wonderful showing of what Oregon's craftspeople design and make. We made several good sales, and even concluded one good commission for a table. The show encouraged Bill to design, make, and finish several tables, including the one shown here, "Ruffled Feathers." It is a new design for him, has new leg shapes, is made from wood he had never worked with.
I'm back!
I've come back--sorry for the interruption. but for several months I just kind of let the blog fade in the back ground. But now Bill tells me we are doing many things I can tell everyone about. So, I'll start back at the end of April, and take you through our road trips this summer to Las Vegas, Salem, Bellevue, Montana, and the to the San Francisco ACC show.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
More fall colors
Erika sent us this beautiful photo she took along the Appalaction Trail.
I had to share it.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Fall Colors
Our workshop is located in Oregon's wine country. Two vineyards are just north of us, both 2-3miles away. One is Willamette Vineyards, the state's largest. Our favorite is Ankey Vineyards, one of the state's oldest and smallest. The ploto above shows Ankeny Vineyards yesterday. At the base of the evergreen trees at the right is an old community cemetary. One day the winery guy loaded me into his "mule" (a small John Deere truck) and drove me up there. Very interesting!This winery's official greeter is a chocolate labrador named appropriately, Hershey. And Hershey Red is one of their bottled wines.
My favorite visit to a winery was one fall day, when the grapes were still on the vines. We were invited to dinner at Grant and Elizabeth's. They owned a vineyard in West Salem, and Elizabeth oversaw the making of about a thousand bottles of wine each year; most of their grapes were sold to other wineries. But driving up to their house that beautiful September afternoon was one of the most beautiful sights I have seen. Purple grapes hung heavily of the vines, the hills were shouting out their fall colors, and then we sampled some of Elizabeth's wine from the barrel before dinner.
Our favorite wine of all time is "Elizabeth"--what we called the no-label bottles.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Hunting Season
The ebb and flow of the seasons is happening. And we are now into . . . Hunting Season
In my earlier years, hunting season was a big deal. I am not a hunter (usually), but as a sixteen year old, it meant I got to drive. Yep--I drove our '57 Chevy pickup up one valley and dropped off my Dad and brother. They proceeded to hike over to the next valley loooking for deer and elk. My job was to find my way over to that next valley and pick them up. Great experience for a learning driver. I learned the curves of many of Montana's back roads! And I can remember being ordered home from college one weekend to go antelope hunting. Yep--ordered. Seems my dad had put my name along with my mom, my brother and himself in a drawing for permits to antelope hunt. When the drawing was held, everyone but my dad won a permit. I had to go home to round out the hunting party.
Now our hunting expeditions are of a different kind. Bill is always looking for The Big Burl.
You know, those growths on trees, the sight of rare figured wood. They make Bolstad Boxes beautiful! In August we received a call from a guy we had met last February at the Philadelphia show. He lives in Klamath Falls, and he sells wood. He had some "burl" for sale. So we planned an "expedition". Over several rivers and thru lots of woods we would go. Yesterday was our big "hunt".
It's about a 4 hour drive to Klamath Falls in south central Oregon. I charged our cell phones, packed for an overnight stay if needed, and at 6 am we left. Right now in Oregon there are several forest fires. They affect most of the roads going over the Cascades to central Oregon.
One pass opened up that morning, and we were able to go the route over Willamette Pass. We went right through where the fire had gone, on both sides of the road. We saw many "fire camps" where fire fighters had set up their tents, and they were still putting out "hot spots".
The little community of Crescent Lake was alive and getting back to normal after being evacuated. Our call to "511" (road hotline) had warned us to be on the watch for "fire apparatus." Saw plenty of those. We continued on our journey looking for the illusive Big Burl.
With a short detour, we made it to Oregon's one National Park--Crater Lake. Crater Lake was on my list of "Places I Have To See" at one time. We did go see it once, but it was winter. And snow there gets pretty deep; the park is only opened for a few short miles at the south entrance during the winter, so we hadn't really "seen" all of it. We entered at the north entrance, and exited out the south. The area had two big forest fires, so there was lots of smoke in the air. It also was slightly foggy, so for awhile viewing distance was not great. One area had big road signs explaing the fire was a "natural burn" and they were letting it burn. I took a couple nice photos of Wizard Island and Crater Lake, just to provwe I was there!
Now we were on our way. No more detours. We found our burl man, and Bill "hunted" through his orderly piles of beautiful wood. An hour later we drove away with some beautiful Madrone Burl. Plans are to make them into tables. Our hunt was successful--this year!
Our return trip was over the moun tians on a route from Klamath Falls to Ashland to the interstate. It was a beautiful drive, and a new route for us. It goes through a very remote part of Oregon. We stopped and had dinner with our friends Ned and Susan in Roseburg, then arrived home about 9:30pm. Didn't need our back pack of "in case we stay overnight".
The moral of this story is -- it's not the outcome of the hunt that counts, but the journey. We had a great day.
In my earlier years, hunting season was a big deal. I am not a hunter (usually), but as a sixteen year old, it meant I got to drive. Yep--I drove our '57 Chevy pickup up one valley and dropped off my Dad and brother. They proceeded to hike over to the next valley loooking for deer and elk. My job was to find my way over to that next valley and pick them up. Great experience for a learning driver. I learned the curves of many of Montana's back roads! And I can remember being ordered home from college one weekend to go antelope hunting. Yep--ordered. Seems my dad had put my name along with my mom, my brother and himself in a drawing for permits to antelope hunt. When the drawing was held, everyone but my dad won a permit. I had to go home to round out the hunting party.
Now our hunting expeditions are of a different kind. Bill is always looking for The Big Burl.
You know, those growths on trees, the sight of rare figured wood. They make Bolstad Boxes beautiful! In August we received a call from a guy we had met last February at the Philadelphia show. He lives in Klamath Falls, and he sells wood. He had some "burl" for sale. So we planned an "expedition". Over several rivers and thru lots of woods we would go. Yesterday was our big "hunt".
It's about a 4 hour drive to Klamath Falls in south central Oregon. I charged our cell phones, packed for an overnight stay if needed, and at 6 am we left. Right now in Oregon there are several forest fires. They affect most of the roads going over the Cascades to central Oregon.
One pass opened up that morning, and we were able to go the route over Willamette Pass. We went right through where the fire had gone, on both sides of the road. We saw many "fire camps" where fire fighters had set up their tents, and they were still putting out "hot spots".
The little community of Crescent Lake was alive and getting back to normal after being evacuated. Our call to "511" (road hotline) had warned us to be on the watch for "fire apparatus." Saw plenty of those. We continued on our journey looking for the illusive Big Burl.
With a short detour, we made it to Oregon's one National Park--Crater Lake. Crater Lake was on my list of "Places I Have To See" at one time. We did go see it once, but it was winter. And snow there gets pretty deep; the park is only opened for a few short miles at the south entrance during the winter, so we hadn't really "seen" all of it. We entered at the north entrance, and exited out the south. The area had two big forest fires, so there was lots of smoke in the air. It also was slightly foggy, so for awhile viewing distance was not great. One area had big road signs explaing the fire was a "natural burn" and they were letting it burn. I took a couple nice photos of Wizard Island and Crater Lake, just to provwe I was there!
Now we were on our way. No more detours. We found our burl man, and Bill "hunted" through his orderly piles of beautiful wood. An hour later we drove away with some beautiful Madrone Burl. Plans are to make them into tables. Our hunt was successful--this year!
Our return trip was over the moun tians on a route from Klamath Falls to Ashland to the interstate. It was a beautiful drive, and a new route for us. It goes through a very remote part of Oregon. We stopped and had dinner with our friends Ned and Susan in Roseburg, then arrived home about 9:30pm. Didn't need our back pack of "in case we stay overnight".
The moral of this story is -- it's not the outcome of the hunt that counts, but the journey. We had a great day.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Oktoberfest in Mt. Angel
It's already September; although our nice weather is here for a stay for awhile longer, The slight tinge of color on the trees, earlier twilight, etc. let us know fall is nearby.
One sign that fall's near for those of us in Oregon is Oktoberfest in Mt. Angel. We traveled to Mt. Angel yesterday. It's such a beautiful place, I have to tell you about it.
Mt. Angel, Oregon is located northeast of Salem about 15 miles. It is a quaint (yes!) little farming community. The nearby Mt.Angel Abbey is a beautiful place, with a spectular view of the Willamette Valley, the many fields, the hops fields ready for harvest, the foothills of the Cascades, and Mt. Hood towering above it all.
Back to the town of Mt. Angel. Mt. Angel was originally settled by Germans. They keep their ancestory in the forefront. Each September the whole town holds an Oktoberfest. Many charitable organizations are recepients of the receipts from beer gardens, food vendors, arts and craft vendors. There's "chicken dancing" in the streets, polka music coming from the loud speakers throughout downtown. Oktoberfest starts on Friday, and the town was getting ready for the thousands of visitors. All the yards were being manicured; flower boxes and pots of flowers are blooming at their best. The town's new glockenspiel shines in its central location. Even the public restrooms boast a new coat of paint!
We went to Mt. Angel to deliver some jewelry boxes to the Mt. Angel Woodcarvers Association gallery. This is a brand new gallery spearheaded by woodcarvers from nearby areas. Many of them are over 70! They have taken an old pizza location, cleaned it up, painted, added some tables and a few borrowed displays and added some beautiful products. They will be open for Oktoberfest. This is the arts community doing its best to bring the wooden items of the area to the public. They are planning for this to be a permanent gallery, with a coop selling team of gallery members. (The permanent part of this may be a challenge once Mt. Angel returns to it's normal qiet farming community.) With a wonderful weather forcast this weekend, the Grand Opening for The Mt.ANgel Woodcarvers Assn. Gallery should be great!
One sign that fall's near for those of us in Oregon is Oktoberfest in Mt. Angel. We traveled to Mt. Angel yesterday. It's such a beautiful place, I have to tell you about it.
Mt. Angel, Oregon is located northeast of Salem about 15 miles. It is a quaint (yes!) little farming community. The nearby Mt.Angel Abbey is a beautiful place, with a spectular view of the Willamette Valley, the many fields, the hops fields ready for harvest, the foothills of the Cascades, and Mt. Hood towering above it all.
Back to the town of Mt. Angel. Mt. Angel was originally settled by Germans. They keep their ancestory in the forefront. Each September the whole town holds an Oktoberfest. Many charitable organizations are recepients of the receipts from beer gardens, food vendors, arts and craft vendors. There's "chicken dancing" in the streets, polka music coming from the loud speakers throughout downtown. Oktoberfest starts on Friday, and the town was getting ready for the thousands of visitors. All the yards were being manicured; flower boxes and pots of flowers are blooming at their best. The town's new glockenspiel shines in its central location. Even the public restrooms boast a new coat of paint!
We went to Mt. Angel to deliver some jewelry boxes to the Mt. Angel Woodcarvers Association gallery. This is a brand new gallery spearheaded by woodcarvers from nearby areas. Many of them are over 70! They have taken an old pizza location, cleaned it up, painted, added some tables and a few borrowed displays and added some beautiful products. They will be open for Oktoberfest. This is the arts community doing its best to bring the wooden items of the area to the public. They are planning for this to be a permanent gallery, with a coop selling team of gallery members. (The permanent part of this may be a challenge once Mt. Angel returns to it's normal qiet farming community.) With a wonderful weather forcast this weekend, the Grand Opening for The Mt.ANgel Woodcarvers Assn. Gallery should be great!
Saturday, August 2, 2008
THANKS, and I will be back--that's a warning!
I need to extend a "THANK YOU" to my pool pals. Their help, thoughts, and prayers have helped me get through the heart atack and its aftermath. Angie was responsible for getting me out of the pool when I didn't look so good. She and Louise were the ones who contacted Bill, went to the hospital, and then helped Bill get my car back home. (I think Angie really enjoyed driving the convertible!) Azhar and her husband Mike's thoughts were with me. They had a barbeque last weekend, and it was my first "social" outing. (It was nice to see everyone! Many from the Courthouse Athetic Club.) And Peggy Johnson found the time to send me several cards (along with many others, but she consistantly sent at least one per week).
Our many crafts friends also need to be thanked--Chuck and Mona Elkan sent beautiful flowers, as did Mitch and Sheryl Patton. I was so excited to get to use my new pen and pencil set from Mitch--my occupational therapist had me practice my writing, and I had new instruments made by Mitch to do it with.
There were several people who called and kept in touch with Bill while I was in the hospital. I don't know who all they were, but a bunch of guys from the Guild of Oregon Woodworkers, our great friends Ned and Susan Landis, Doug Hively, Chuck Elkan, to mention just a few. And our neighbor, Peggy , who sent over supper for the "crew" who gathered.
To all of you--some un-named--a great big
Our many crafts friends also need to be thanked--Chuck and Mona Elkan sent beautiful flowers, as did Mitch and Sheryl Patton. I was so excited to get to use my new pen and pencil set from Mitch--my occupational therapist had me practice my writing, and I had new instruments made by Mitch to do it with.
There were several people who called and kept in touch with Bill while I was in the hospital. I don't know who all they were, but a bunch of guys from the Guild of Oregon Woodworkers, our great friends Ned and Susan Landis, Doug Hively, Chuck Elkan, to mention just a few. And our neighbor, Peggy , who sent over supper for the "crew" who gathered.
To all of you--some un-named--a great big
THANK YOU. THANK YOU. THANK YOU.
(That's as big as Blogger lets me print!)
You don'tknow how pleased I am that I'm here to extend that.
Summer . . .
Where has the summer gone? I guess when you spend three weeks of it in the hospital, that would explain why June and July went by so fast!
Our days here are filled with lots of activities. I just finished designing, printing, mailing a newsletter to about 250 stores and galleries. It felt good to actually finish a real project again--there was a time when I wondered if I would ever do that again. Bill has finally been able to finish most of the tables he was working on. And then we have medical appointment--we try to reserve our late afternoons for them. For the next three weeks, I note that our calendar has 2 per week.
I am enjoying the fruits of Stephanie's (our daughter) labor. While I was in the hospital, she got my computer all set up with a new internet provider. We had been using a dial-up; it was so slow! But technology has found it's way to our part of the Valley, and we now have a satellite broadband. Music, videos, etc, come in great. Right now I'm listening to my favorite Portland radoio station "streaming".
The bookwork for Bolstad Boxes seems to be in pretty good shape. Once again, I have Steph to thank for doing the work for three weeks. It has paid off having our kids help us when they were younger. They can both pretty much remember how we do things, how we make things. Of course, they still show up at shows like BMAC in Philadelphia to help out.
Besides helping us, Erika and Stephanie lead very full lives. Stephanie takes wonderful care of Elliott and Jacques and tutors several students. She is expecting twins in December! Erika is a Washington DC correspondant for McClatchy newspapers, writing mainly for the Boice Idaho Statesman and the Ancorage Daily News. Both places have senators that create lots of news--and give her lots to write about. She is planning to take time out to visit us over Labor Day weekend!
Our grandson, Elliott, was here for three weeks too. While I didn't get to visit with him as much as his grandpa, BBB (for Big Bad Bill). This 2-1/2 year old increased his knowledge of woodworking and trucks on the road. He and his mama woud go on long walks (he was usually in the stroller) everyday. One of his favorite places was the "rain forest"--his name for the wooded area in the Ankeny Wildlife Refuge about a mile north of our house/workshop. But every evening he came to the hospital to see me and tell me about his adventures. He became so much more friendly towards me when I was no longer bed-ridden and had on clothes. The first time he came and I was sitting up in real clothes, he shouted out, "Are you better now?" Just seeing him made me feel better! Yesterday we "talked" via the computer, and the webcam. We had fun waving to each other, throwing kisses, etc. Need I say, I love playing Grandma!
Our days here are filled with lots of activities. I just finished designing, printing, mailing a newsletter to about 250 stores and galleries. It felt good to actually finish a real project again--there was a time when I wondered if I would ever do that again. Bill has finally been able to finish most of the tables he was working on. And then we have medical appointment--we try to reserve our late afternoons for them. For the next three weeks, I note that our calendar has 2 per week.
I am enjoying the fruits of Stephanie's (our daughter) labor. While I was in the hospital, she got my computer all set up with a new internet provider. We had been using a dial-up; it was so slow! But technology has found it's way to our part of the Valley, and we now have a satellite broadband. Music, videos, etc, come in great. Right now I'm listening to my favorite Portland radoio station "streaming".
The bookwork for Bolstad Boxes seems to be in pretty good shape. Once again, I have Steph to thank for doing the work for three weeks. It has paid off having our kids help us when they were younger. They can both pretty much remember how we do things, how we make things. Of course, they still show up at shows like BMAC in Philadelphia to help out.
Besides helping us, Erika and Stephanie lead very full lives. Stephanie takes wonderful care of Elliott and Jacques and tutors several students. She is expecting twins in December! Erika is a Washington DC correspondant for McClatchy newspapers, writing mainly for the Boice Idaho Statesman and the Ancorage Daily News. Both places have senators that create lots of news--and give her lots to write about. She is planning to take time out to visit us over Labor Day weekend!
Our grandson, Elliott, was here for three weeks too. While I didn't get to visit with him as much as his grandpa, BBB (for Big Bad Bill). This 2-1/2 year old increased his knowledge of woodworking and trucks on the road. He and his mama woud go on long walks (he was usually in the stroller) everyday. One of his favorite places was the "rain forest"--his name for the wooded area in the Ankeny Wildlife Refuge about a mile north of our house/workshop. But every evening he came to the hospital to see me and tell me about his adventures. He became so much more friendly towards me when I was no longer bed-ridden and had on clothes. The first time he came and I was sitting up in real clothes, he shouted out, "Are you better now?" Just seeing him made me feel better! Yesterday we "talked" via the computer, and the webcam. We had fun waving to each other, throwing kisses, etc. Need I say, I love playing Grandma!
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Life is a Bowl of Cherries!
I just spent three weeks in the hospital after having a heart attack. I am on the road to recovery. (This cat has several lives left yet!)
I just finished the last of the Cherries we got on Wednesday. We took the ferry across the river (just 2 miles from home) and when we got off, the sign said "Cherries $1.50". So up the driveway we went for our share! It was 8:30am; they did not have any picked yet for the day, were just heading out to the orchard to do it. The nice lady said, "Give me 5 minutes; I"ll pick some just for you." So we got the freshest possible! The cherry trees were so beautiful; their bright green leaves with lots of red cherries and beautiful blue skies. I love cherries; Bill loves cherries! So I think another trip on the ferry is instore for us.
But Blueberries and Raspberries are on the menu too!
We have it made this time of year--strawberry season just over, though our strawberries last the whole summer. And we live midst farms where they have blueberries (yum!) and raspberries. It has been an education seeing how they are harvested.
I just finished the last of the Cherries we got on Wednesday. We took the ferry across the river (just 2 miles from home) and when we got off, the sign said "Cherries $1.50". So up the driveway we went for our share! It was 8:30am; they did not have any picked yet for the day, were just heading out to the orchard to do it. The nice lady said, "Give me 5 minutes; I"ll pick some just for you." So we got the freshest possible! The cherry trees were so beautiful; their bright green leaves with lots of red cherries and beautiful blue skies. I love cherries; Bill loves cherries! So I think another trip on the ferry is instore for us.
But Blueberries and Raspberries are on the menu too!
We have it made this time of year--strawberry season just over, though our strawberries last the whole summer. And we live midst farms where they have blueberries (yum!) and raspberries. It has been an education seeing how they are harvested.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Desert sightings
Our trip to ACRE--Las Vegas also included a side trip to Borrego Springs CA. They have begun installing a collection of prehistoric animals. Here is one of the first.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Preview of ACRE show in Las Vegas
We leave for Las Vegas and ACRE on Wednesday. Here are some new limited edition boxes we will show for the first time. The ACRE show is April 26--28 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Farewell, George.
A very dear friend and woodworker died this weekend. George DuBois was an inspiriation for those who watched his struggle with cancer. He showed us how to die with dignity. He contributed to his woodworking community right to the end. George has gone from our neighborhood, but he has left a legacy to be remembered. For many years George was the Guild of Oregon Woodworkers; he was the visible sign of the organization. Through the efforts of George the organization was able to flurish.
Good bye, George. You will be missed, and not just for the gourmet meals you fed us.
Good bye, George. You will be missed, and not just for the gourmet meals you fed us.
Friday, April 4, 2008
I am currently putting the final touches on a new catalog for use by our wholesale customers. Right now I am awaiting two new Limitesd Editions to be finished so they can be included. This will be a new format for us. The catalog will be three separate four page catalogs, each 5-1/2"X8-1/2". Limited Editions, Jewelry boxes, and Tables and Pedestals. Each will have space on the back for the store/gallery 's name,etc. Prices of all items are on a separate sheet.
The above photos show two of the new limited editions we introduced in February.
The above photos show two of the new limited editions we introduced in February.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Cherry Blossoms
Bill and I love living in the Willamette Valley where spring brings blooms of all kinds. But I always have wanted to see the cherry blossoms in Washington DC. This year our daughters and grandson Elliott got to see them. The photo above was taken in front of the Jefferson Memorial/Tidal Basin. Maybe it'll be my turn next year. . .
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Spring!, Beavers, Eagles and the Pool life.
Our daffodils tell me it is spring; I love their smiling yellow faces. But the 3"snowflakes yesterday when I went to the pool made me think more "winter" than a"spring". They melted as soon as they hit anything; but they plus the spray from the big trucks on the freeway made seeing hard. No snow today but tomorrow has it in the forecast. (Grrr.)
We had a visitor on Monday evening. We came home from the grocery store and found a beaver in our front yard. Since we live close to OSU (the Beavers) when Bill said "Theres a beaver in the front yard." I asked, "It he playing football or basketball?" He just ate some of the tall grass, and then it got too dark for us to see him. Wildlife has been abundant lately. Several species of large hawks have been around, and we see bald eagles regularly. Living on a wildlife refuge has special times. The resident Canadian geese are making nests now, and soon we can look forward to seeing the little gooslings swimming behind Mom and Pop in the Duck Pond just north of us.
This last weekend Bill taught a class of seven guys how to make a table. They all left on Sunday with a pedestal table. Bill was really satisfied with the way the class went, and enjoyed imparting some of his knowledge to others. They managed to devour the Easter Bunny Cake I made for them.
I am continuing with my exercise program. I go to the pool four times a week, and have been doing lots of "water walking" (not walking on the water). My friend Angela and I have spent up to 1-1/2 hours just walking or marching across the pool. I enjoy my little United Nations in the pool. I have made friends with people from all over the world. Angela is from Ireland; Azhar from Iraq; Julia from England; Susie from Hong Kong; Chen from VietNam; and a little girl from Japan joined in our conversation yesterday; plus there are several from different parts of this country. Ages vary--from 32 to over 80. Learning of their life experiences has been so interesting.
We had a visitor on Monday evening. We came home from the grocery store and found a beaver in our front yard. Since we live close to OSU (the Beavers) when Bill said "Theres a beaver in the front yard." I asked, "It he playing football or basketball?" He just ate some of the tall grass, and then it got too dark for us to see him. Wildlife has been abundant lately. Several species of large hawks have been around, and we see bald eagles regularly. Living on a wildlife refuge has special times. The resident Canadian geese are making nests now, and soon we can look forward to seeing the little gooslings swimming behind Mom and Pop in the Duck Pond just north of us.
This last weekend Bill taught a class of seven guys how to make a table. They all left on Sunday with a pedestal table. Bill was really satisfied with the way the class went, and enjoyed imparting some of his knowledge to others. They managed to devour the Easter Bunny Cake I made for them.
I am continuing with my exercise program. I go to the pool four times a week, and have been doing lots of "water walking" (not walking on the water). My friend Angela and I have spent up to 1-1/2 hours just walking or marching across the pool. I enjoy my little United Nations in the pool. I have made friends with people from all over the world. Angela is from Ireland; Azhar from Iraq; Julia from England; Susie from Hong Kong; Chen from VietNam; and a little girl from Japan joined in our conversation yesterday; plus there are several from different parts of this country. Ages vary--from 32 to over 80. Learning of their life experiences has been so interesting.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Show Clean-Up
It's back to work. My work is getting the orders all entered in the computer. I also have to clean-up some data, get it so it is consistent. Bill claims he can't follow it--one time I entered B for black, then Bl, then Bk. That and a few other things that over the years have been inconsistant. So I guess that's the first job for today. I spent yesterday entering orders, answering e-mail and phone messages.
Generally when we go to a major show we have new designs. This year we had 7 new styles of boxes and 1 new table. After I had entered the orders, I did a little playing with the numbers, and discovered that this time, buyers discovered the new things, for 1/3 of the items sold were new styles! It's nice to get that kind of feedback on new work.
We have less than a month before Bill teaches a class about building tables for the Guild of Oregon Woodworkers. And it's just 7 weeks until we're off to Las Vegas for the ACRE show. Bill has to produce many items before we go so our customers have items in their stores/galleries for Mother's Day, graduations, Father's Day, weddings and anniversaries. Just thinking about all there is to do makes me wish there were more hours in the day, and maybe I should not take out three hours every other day for exercising! But that's important too, and what keeps me a able to move better and feel better, so I'll be off to the pool (20min to get there, at least 75 min in the pool, 20 to shower, then another 20 minutes to get home) at noon.
Our flowers are getting ready for their annual showcase. Daffidils have buds getting ready to open up; Crocus are blooming, and many others are poking up. Spring will be here soon! Perhaps no more cold weather for several months; I put away my gloves and scarf for the year, and now it's the light jacket! And the sun is shining!
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
We're back!
We've been to Philadelphia, Washington DC, and Miami. The Philadelphia BMAC was a good show. We saw lots of our buyers, and even signed up some new ones. We enjoyed our time with our daughter, Erika. Her help made the show a very pleasant event. We went out to dfinner one evening with Liz and Mike Mikotowski; they helped us celebrate the award Erika was given for writing stories about ... that favorite congressional laughing stock, Larry Craig. Mike and Liz, Bill and Nan, and Erika toasted the congressman and enjoyed the Italian dinner.
<--Ghirabaldi Limited Edition
After the show was over Erika drove us to Washington DC. we enjoyed our chauffer's tour of the sights--visited the American Indian Museum, had a lunch of native Indian food, enjoyed the orchids and other plants at the conservatory near the capital, and then we drove around the neighborhoods near where Erika lives and visited the National Cathedral.
Then we were off to Miami. Elliott, Stephanie and Jacques entertained us for 4 days. The time was filled with sunshine, alligators, meeting their friends, eating, and exploring Miami. We enjoyed being grandparents; Ellliott had us wrapped around his finger.
Now it'sback to work. I even went to the pool today and "swam" for 1-1/2 hours.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Our Archives
For over 30 years I have been having photos taken of our work. I have more than a file drawer full of slides, transperancies, photos, tear sheets, etc. I have taken some of them out into the light of day, and gathered them together for exhibit in what I term "The Bill Museum". What fun it was going through everything.
The photo here is what I call "The Dust Collector That Ate Bill". One summer day he was cleaning it out, got up there, reached in, and looked like he was being gobbled up. I had a digital photo made of it so I could share it. We are now using the third generation dust collector, but the ol' forklift is still plugging along.
I spent half a day reviewing our philopsophy for our business; seeing how our work had evolved over the years; remembering some of the older things we made; noting the climb in prices. (A three-drawer chest was priced (wholesale) at $60.00 thirty years ago; today a much refined similiar chest is $350.00) I discovered our first printed wholesale price list; it's printed in black and white, but very professionally done (for 1978). The terms, descripitions, photos are similiar to what we use today, just today we are a bit more eleborate, and have a few more "rules" for doing business.
I have put many of the old photos, price lists and catalogs in a notebook to have on exhibit at the Buyers Market in Philadelphia. I think our customers--current and past--will enjoy seeing them. It's fun celebrating Bill's 50 years of making sawdust!
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
BMAC here we come!
Bill and I are both busy at work getting ready for the BMAC show. We leave for Philadelphia two weeks from tomorrow. The samples were packed and are off on their journey. New work is still being done; it will go via UPS or a suitcase--Bill is still working on several boxes. As soon as they are finished, they get brought in for a photo session. (One kitchen countertop has been tured into a detailing/photo space.)
The photo shown is of our new table. We call it a "V5" style; V for version, 5 for fifth table style. Bill designed it using the computer to draw it out. The top features spaltedmape that has been infused with acrylic. The table structure below the top features ovals on all four sides. It is very elegant. The table is now on its way to Philly.
I put linings in one of our new designs the other day. Bill and I have an on-going conversation about the gender of our boxes. I am always after him to make more feminine boxes. I think he did this time! He worked on a handle and feet that give a very feminine look, yet the box does not have an overly delicate look. No photos yet--waiting for the others to be finished.
Bill just complete a commission for a customer in Portland. It looked right at home with another table the gentleman had purchased. Before delivering it he made at stop at the studio of our favorite photographer, Dan Kvitka. The photos turned out great! (I will post it soon.)
Friday, January 11, 2008
Travel Agent Hat
Today I am wearing my travel agent hat. I made our reservations for the ACRE show in Las Vegas. It seems like a long time away, but is only three months.
I reminded myself of all the things I don't like about Vegas--the smells, the constant sounds in hotel/casinos. So to get away from all of that I made hotel reservations at a non-smoking hotel that is just a hotel--no casino. It's right next to the south end of the convention center, so very conveinient. (Not like it will be in Philadelphia--where it's a short 3 blocks to the Convention Center, but February weather in Philly can be windy and chilly--and sometimes snowy!)
When we go to a show, we try to take good care of ourselves. We try to stay in a hotel that provides some creature comforts. We always eat a good breakfast, then often skip lunch, but always have a good dinner. This place in Vegas fits the bill. I thought about The Residence Inn across the street from the convention center. They have kitchens and dishes etc. But this is a business trip--and my business is not fixing food! I would rather order it.
We are planning to drive to Las Vegas. Last year we drove and on the way home stopped at a gallery and left most of our sample invetory. This year we are planning on visiting several northern California area galleries, looking for prospective consignment places. During the end of April, first part of May it's a nice ride -- not too warm, and no snow over I-5 into/out of California. Driving down we will have an empty van as all our samples will be shipped directly to Las Vegas from the Philadelphia show.
'
It's time for a new hot--probably my accounting hat for a few hours.
I reminded myself of all the things I don't like about Vegas--the smells, the constant sounds in hotel/casinos. So to get away from all of that I made hotel reservations at a non-smoking hotel that is just a hotel--no casino. It's right next to the south end of the convention center, so very conveinient. (Not like it will be in Philadelphia--where it's a short 3 blocks to the Convention Center, but February weather in Philly can be windy and chilly--and sometimes snowy!)
When we go to a show, we try to take good care of ourselves. We try to stay in a hotel that provides some creature comforts. We always eat a good breakfast, then often skip lunch, but always have a good dinner. This place in Vegas fits the bill. I thought about The Residence Inn across the street from the convention center. They have kitchens and dishes etc. But this is a business trip--and my business is not fixing food! I would rather order it.
We are planning to drive to Las Vegas. Last year we drove and on the way home stopped at a gallery and left most of our sample invetory. This year we are planning on visiting several northern California area galleries, looking for prospective consignment places. During the end of April, first part of May it's a nice ride -- not too warm, and no snow over I-5 into/out of California. Driving down we will have an empty van as all our samples will be shipped directly to Las Vegas from the Philadelphia show.
'
It's time for a new hot--probably my accounting hat for a few hours.
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Congratulations, Mitch!
We have been encouraging our friend Mitch Patten on marketing his turned pens for some time now. I really encouraged him try the ACRE show in Las Vegas in April, and I thought his items would do we4ll on Wholesalecrafts.com.
Mitch called the other night with some great news--he's gottem into the show and on the web site. That's the way to go, Mitch!
The New Normal
Life is back to normal here. That means I am now going to the gym/pool 3--4 times as week for water excerise again. Last Friday was my first time in four months, and that warm water felt so-o-o-o good. And my muscles felt so-o-o-o bad the next day. I am once again able to do everything--go get the mail, go to the bank, I even went to Target by myself.
Bill and I both are hard at work getting everything ready for the Philadelphia show. Bill's getting new boxes and tables ready; I am getting a new price list ready, as well as a newsletter to our customers and prospective customers. I also am preparing a press kit for the show. Bill is finishing up on a commission for an end table with a drawer. It's done, he's just letting the finish dry before he takes it to be photographed and delivers it.
We are looking forward to our post-show vacation. First a couple of days in Washington DC with our favorite Washington Correspondent, daughter Erika, then a few more days in sunny Florida with our grandson, Elliott (and his parents). Elliott, Steph and Jacques are on their way to South Africa as I write this. They will be there 3 weeks, so we will be looking forward to hearing tales about lions and giraffes.
We live next to a wildlife refuge. But I have to say, I really hate to hear the guns go off every morning just at sunrise and again at sunset. These supposed "sportsmen" are after their goose/geese, but I don't think it's very sportsmanlike to sit across the road from a wildlife refuge made for migrating Canadian geese and shoot them as they fly into/out of the refuge. There is something special about seeing thousands of geese circle to land in a pond, but I'm not too much in favor of the hunters waiting to shoot them. Enough tirade for today.
Bill and I both are hard at work getting everything ready for the Philadelphia show. Bill's getting new boxes and tables ready; I am getting a new price list ready, as well as a newsletter to our customers and prospective customers. I also am preparing a press kit for the show. Bill is finishing up on a commission for an end table with a drawer. It's done, he's just letting the finish dry before he takes it to be photographed and delivers it.
We are looking forward to our post-show vacation. First a couple of days in Washington DC with our favorite Washington Correspondent, daughter Erika, then a few more days in sunny Florida with our grandson, Elliott (and his parents). Elliott, Steph and Jacques are on their way to South Africa as I write this. They will be there 3 weeks, so we will be looking forward to hearing tales about lions and giraffes.
We live next to a wildlife refuge. But I have to say, I really hate to hear the guns go off every morning just at sunrise and again at sunset. These supposed "sportsmen" are after their goose/geese, but I don't think it's very sportsmanlike to sit across the road from a wildlife refuge made for migrating Canadian geese and shoot them as they fly into/out of the refuge. There is something special about seeing thousands of geese circle to land in a pond, but I'm not too much in favor of the hunters waiting to shoot them. Enough tirade for today.
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