Lately, life has been full of learning experiences, small victories, good people, loyal dogs, and a lot of sawdust.
I’ve been spending more time learning woodworking with Carmona Crafts, with Ernest teaching me the importance of preparation, sanding techniques, patience, and proper finishing. Every project reminds me that craftsmanship is built one step at a time.
One of the projects I’m currently working on is a beautiful live edge slab that immediately stood out because of its natural grain and character. Every knot, curve, and line in the wood tells its own story. I’m learning how to properly sand and prepare the slab before the final finishing process, and it’s been incredible watching rough wood slowly transform into something beautiful.
At the same time, I’ve also been trusted with restoring a children’s dining set that belonged to Mr. Donovan’s children many years ago. The goal is to carefully strip the old finish, repair the brackets, stain it, and seal it so he can pass it down to his grandchildren. Projects like this remind me that woodworking isn’t just about building furniture — it’s about preserving memories and creating something that lasts across generations.
Seeing the dining table and chairs slowly come back to life has been rewarding. It’s amazing how a little patience, sanding, repair work, and fresh finish can completely change a piece while still keeping its history alive.
Outside the workshop, Herc continues to be my loyal companion through all of it. Whether he’s laying quietly in the shade watching over everything or protecting his favorite toys inside the house, she’s always nearby. Recently, Herc made a new friend named Shadow, and seeing the two of them relaxing together in the yard reminded me how important it is to slow down and appreciate the simple moments too.
I’ve also started experimenting with day trading and learning how prompts, discipline, and strategy can work together. So far, I’ve made two trades and earned my first $3.80. It may seem small, but for me it represents progress, action, and the excitement of learning something completely new.
Honestly, it’s been fun.
I know there’s still a lot to learn, and I’m looking forward to tweaking my approach, improving where I need to, and continuing to grow over time. Just like woodworking, day trading seems to reward patience, consistency, and learning from mistakes.
The auctions have been exciting too. Today I won an REA Express die-cast truck along with a hardwood bench top that will be perfect for future workshop projects. Earlier this week, we also picked up:
- a health analyzer,
- Bessey clamps,
- and several stands for future indoor and outdoor projects.
Every auction feels like another opportunity to gather tools, materials, ideas, and inspiration for what’s ahead.
Between woodworking, restoration projects, auctions, learning day trading, and spending time with Herc, this season of life has been teaching me that progress doesn’t always happen through giant breakthroughs.
Sometimes progress looks like:
- one slab being sanded,
- one family piece being restored,
- one auction win,
- one trade,
- and one lesson at a time.
More projects, lessons, and adventures coming soon.
— Sam