Ok. We’ve mentioned it a few times, so I guess it’s time to see for real who might be interested in a gathering this summer. After having gone to Montanafest, and meeting Lee Grindinger and about 35 other woodworkers, I know first hand how much fun it can be. I also learned from Lee and his wonderful wife how much work it is to put on an event, and I’m willing, if you folks are able.
So, I’m throwing some ideas out there. I will host it. I have a couple acres, and my shop is on my property here. We can do some fiddling around in the shop, a demonstration or two if you like, and with any luck, I’ll have my sawmill up and running so we can all see first hand what work is involved to hack up a log or two. I have a swimming pool, a horseshoe pit, and can set up a volleyball net, too. And of course, every party at my house ends quite late into the night around the bondfire, howling at the moon…..
Obviously, plenty of food and drink will be involved. After knowing how many would attend, I’ll figure out what it would cost, and we can share the expenses. It should be quite reasonable, per person. Sorry, but most of my money these days goes to the kids’ universities.
I live in Crystal Lake, Illinois, which is about 50 miles northwest of Chicago. I live outside the town in an unincorporated area, but nearby in town there are several hotels and shopping, etc…
It would need to be in June or July. With two kids in college, August is way to hectic for me and my wife.
So, what say yee? Let me know by posting here what interest there would be, and also include an idea or two that I haven’t mentioned about what might make our little party special.
It would give us a great opportunity to meet the faces and personalities behind some of these colorfull screen names…..lol.
Jeff
Replies
I live in OH but go visit my daughter & family in Somonauk, ILL How far away are you. If the timing is right I might be able to do both, visit my daughter and see your place on the same trip.
I'd be very interested. Is camping an option? Sleeping in a tent by the bonfire sounds much more appealing than a hotel room if you don't mind your property looking like an army camp.
Camping is definately an option. In fact, I meant to mention it in my original message. We've had several parties where friends brought their tents and popup campers, and spent the night right here. It certainly helps out with the proper emptying of the keg, too, if you know what I mean.
Jeff
Wonderful! Definitely count me in. I can be of some assistance with that keg as well. My students keep me in good shape.
I would love to come but I'm just a singer in a rock and roll band.------------------------------------
It would indeed be a tragedy if the history of the human race proved to be nothing more than the story of an ape playing with a box of matches on a petrol dump. ~David Ormsby Gore
Don
I've got you marked down. "One singer in a rock and roll band!"
Will you be bringing a drummer and guitarist, or are we still on the lookout?
Jeff
Hey Jeff -
I'm in. I live close, so if I can do anything to help leading up to the event, don't be afraid to ask.
Chicago would be a haul but Missouri in June and July is pretty darn sticky. And I heard two magic words keg and BBQ I would be up for it I might even bring some steaks as we are getting a cow butchered next week.
Alright! It looks like we're on our way to a gathering. I've been thinking quite a bit about it, and I'll be contacting some of my suppliers to see if they would like to donate some goodies for a drawing, or something of the sort. I'll also be talking to a few professional craftsmen to see about a demonstration or two. I don't want to take too much time away from the keg, but I thought it might be a good idea.
Please chime in with your thoughts.
Fine Woodworking, Lee Valley, etc... feel free to join in. Rob Lee came to Montana, and gave us a fantastic overview of how a plane goes from concept to final product. Perhaps Larry Williams would like to talk about woodies, or Mike Wenzloff can show off some of his new saws....perhaps with a little help from a transporter, we can even get Philip to bring a few of those awesome planes for demo'ing.
I've also definately thought of having some sort of prize for the individual(s) who attend from the greatest distance away.
Jeff
that would be awesome if some of those folks could make it. If Philip can't, I can bring one of his excellent planes with me.
"I've also definately thought of having some sort of prize for the individual(s) who attend from the greatest distance away."Well, if that prize was a plane ticket from Tel-Aviv...Seriously though, I doubt that I can make it, but good luck with your plan.
David Ring
http://www.touchwood.co.il/?id=1&lang=e
Thanks, David
If I win the lottery between now and then, I'll get that ticket right out to you.
If you're in Africa, won't you be part of the way here?? :)
Jeff
Hey Jeff, the wife and I were just discussing a possible road trip back east. Very possible I could make it! I will hual a trailer with me so I can swing by frenchy's lumber mill before I come back! Chris
Jeff
What a great idea! If this materializes, count me in. I live in Olney, about five hours south of Chicago on the Southeast side of Illinois. No problem to drive there!
Adam
Just bumping this to keep it in view.
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