Challenging Work

 

Last year my period one class did some work for a local restaurant- Bread and Chocolate.  Pictured above is the table that we built for their restaurant dining room.  They wanted something unique, something that they couldn't buy in a store.  So far I haven't seen any of these around.  The legs on this trestle table were cut from a downed red oak tree behind our school.  It was very challenging for us to work with, but it made the work more interesting.  The top was made from eastern white pine that was purchased from an estate sale from the Raccio family at the foot of West Rock.  The rest of the wood came from Hart's mill in Barkhamsted.  As a woodworker, it's nice to realize the potential that this area has to offer when it comes to lumber.  As a teacher, it's nice to recognize the potential that lies within my students.  In both cases, there is value, and in either case, the work is challenging.  There's an old saying in the trades that states "a good craftsman doesn't blame their tools" for a job being done poorly.  How can this apply to education and teaching?

Bread and Chocolate made a donation to our school in exchange for the table.  They have such positive energy over there and they are a pleasure to work with.  It's nice to connect with people of the community who appreciate quality craftsmanship.  If you or someone you know is interested in having us do a project for you, please feel free to let me know.  My students are up for the challenge.