Wood carving can be a lifelong hobby

Tom had always wanted to learn the art of wood carving, but the responsibilities of a job and family had kept him from having the opportunity. He retired last year and saw in the Lakes Area Senior Activity Center's newsletter that there was a wood carving group that met on Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon. He decided to check it out.

He went into the front door of the center and was told by the front desk person to get a cup of coffee and a doughnut to take up to fourth floor to the wood carving room. Once he arrived on the fourth floor of the center, he could hear the laughter coming from the room. The sign on the door read "Board Butchers" so Tom knew he was in the right room. There were about 15 people there, both men and women. Carving capabilities ranged from master carvers to beginners.

Tom explained that he was there to join the group, had no experience, but wanted to learn the art of carving. He was given a roughly cut out cowboy boot and a basic carving knife with instructions on how to begin. Tom was given a tour of the wood shop room and basic instructions on using the woodworking tools. As the morning went on, Tom learned that the group was truly passionate about carving. Carving is a great way to relax; you can put your projects and tools in your pocket and carve anywhere. The group had all taken a road trip to a carving festival in Blackduck.

The "Board Butchers" come and go as they need to throughout the morning. Tom found that the group was very friendly and he would encourage anyone who was thinking of joining them to do so. Tom's project of carving the boot may take him longer than a week, but he knows that he has begun a hobby that will last a lifetime.

So, if you are interested, stop in Thursday, grab a cup of coffee and join them on the fourth floor, take the elevator up.

DEANN BARRY is the Lakes Area Senior Activity Center director.