My supervisor at the scene shop hosted his annual work study party at his home yesterday. Above are pictures of his workshop, which he designed and built completely on his own. I think its beauty speaks for its self.
The rest of his home is equally as beautiful. Him and his girlfriend share a small two-story house on the front of his property. His backdoor opens to a patio with arches of grapevines. There’s a great big chestnut tree that drops millions of chestnuts that he roasts on his ancient wood stove, and a tree swing hangs from one of the larger branches. Their very sweet golden retriever, Callie, runs around their big backyard and garden begging to have her belly rubbed. Next to his shop stands an art studio he built for his girlfriend; he plans to build a sauna onto the back. (For after they go cross-country skiing in the winter.)
I did not expect to be so awed by my supervisor and his home. I’ve worked for him for several months now, and I knew that he is one of the most capable and talented woodworkers out there. He can create anything out of wood and the product is always beautiful. He told us before how much he loves his job; but seeing his home made me understand just how much he loves what he does. While giving us a tour of his workshop he explained that as a boy he dreamed of creating his own shop, and he fulfilled that dream.
I’d like to say that I learned a lesson yesterday about always striving to achieve your dreams, but it’s not as profound as that. I think it’s more of an appreciation for a man that does what he loves and creates beauty around him. His home is so idyllic and yet still genuine, and you don’t see that all that often. I can’t wait to work for him again next year.