July Woodland Retreat - July 31, 2016

Joni reports on the July Woodland Retreat:

 "The July Woodland Retreat has been wonderful.  The baskets completed and being completed today are so beautiful. It is always fun and an honor to share basket making with so many talented people.

A special thank you to the people attending this retreat. Yesterday David lost a small "chunk" of his finger and completely shattered his fingernail when the router blade cut through his finger and into his nail. I appreciate the support of everyone as I had to leave class. David is good, no surgery at all. The staff at the ER was excellent.

Thank you Denise for finishing up with class. Thank you Meredith for immediately taking him to the ER and staying there until I got there. Thank you Craig for meeting her there and keeping your Dad laughing. Lindsey was returning from DE and before we could wrap David's hand she was notified, by who, I do not know. It meant a lot to us to instantly be surrounded by so many caring people and help.

I am so thankful that David did not lose his finger or hand. I am also thankful that we have the support of an amazing family and friends!  Back to weaving".....Joni-Dee

As for me, I am fine, very little pain but a big honking bandage on my finger and an even greater respect for the "Danger Zone" in the shop.  No more oval backplates for me, we will be switching to round ones....

There were some really nice baskets completed this week, but I was particularly intrigued by the Nantucket handlebar basket made by Mary Ann from Virginia Beach, and even more intrigued by the Vintage 1960's era Schwann Stingray Bicycle that it was to be mounted on.  That brought back some vintage memories from my youth as well.  Joni's brother had one very similar, but I had to settle for converting my conventional RollFast bike with a banana seat and high rise bars!

As a reminder, HNCB will be closed for the upcoming week, as we will be taking some time with the family at the lake.  Next stop after we get back is at the SPCA in Aiken, SC; the August Woodland Retreat in Summerfield, NC; and then Joni heads to TN for some recreational weaving of her own.

Remember, it is a beautiful day, don't let it slip away.....

Dave

PS - We always seem to have at least one nurse or former nurse in class at Woodland Retreats and other workshops!  This time, Debbie Badgett from Mount Airy, NC was in class.  Not only did she rewrap my finger, but also brought homemade Little Debbie Oatmeal snacks AND homemade cheesecake.  Debbie, you are welcome in class any time!!!   

 Dave