Give a Gift
There are times when it becomes necessary in my work to tune out distractions and ask myself to identify my priorities for the day, week, or month. I can be pretty distractible, and I find it helps to center myself and require my mind to focus on one task—or step—at a time.
As you likely know, this publication is all about taking it one step at a time. However, if you have ever eagerly started a “part one” in the latest issue, you may have ended up frustrated by having to wait three months for part two to arrive so you could finish your project. Patience, they say, is a virtue. But in this issue, I wanted to deliver a special treat: a full miniature wood duck hen demonstration by Jean Minaudier, previously a book club exclusive project. From carving to painting, all the instruction you need to create your own beautifully colored wood duck can be found in this issue, starting on page 44.
This summer issue also offers an opportunity to get back to basics. Before you sit down to carve a bird, consider building a simple and historical bench on which to do your carving. Keith Hendrickson can tell you all about the history and design of the New Jersey carving bench on page 34. Then, if you’re struggling to complete your projects on time (or at all), read Laurie J. McNeil’s advice on mastering your deadlines and carrying your carvings across the finish line. Perhaps you can put your new time-management skills to use while working on Sam Reichart’s American goshawk bust (page 14).
And if this summer calls you to the seashore, keep an eye out for phalaropes. If you’re lucky, you may even get to see one spin for its dinner.
Katlyne Danko, Editor