Gentle Galoots,

I've been reading the archives and subscribed to the list for over a
year now. This is the most useful, pleasant and civilized group on the
web. I've learned much about old tools, woodworking and decent
Internet behavior - I use the Old Tools list as an example for my
children.

You already know my name. I'm 45 years old. I live in Lakewood OH
(borders Cleveland on the east) a few blocks from Lake Erie. I share
my workshop (opps "home") with my wife and two daughters (12 & 14).
I'm sure some Galoots can relate to my situation - with a wife and two
teenage daughters I spend a lot of time in my basement workshop. I
make certain that the basement spider population is well fed - this
helps ensure that the chaos above doesn't infiltrate my space.

Our house is about 95 years old. We've lived here for almost 16 years.
I've rebuilt / remodeled virtually everything in the house. Most of
this was done using electron killing, tailed apprentices. I was a
"Normite" all the way - I still enjoy his show and sometimes his
approach but today when I watch I ask "there's got to be a quieter,
simpler way to do that".

Over the last few years I've learned to joys of hand tool and
acquiring the skills to use them effectively. This happened largely
because after 10 plus years my job and traveling (way too much work
traveling) had taken its toll on me. Two years ago I basically gave
up. I begged the big consulting firm I worked for to lay me off - they
did. I found a good job here in Cleveland that requires no travel - it
was the smartest thing I've ever done (except for maybe buying those
two real cool "pigsticker" Mottram mortise chisels).

I've begun to inherit a few tools from my family. I've got a few
interesting things to show - with more on the way. My primary old tool
interest is handsaws. I purchased a beautiful Atkins back saw from Ted
Shuck a while back - I use it frequently. In keeping with tradition -
I'll share one minor gloat. I found a Stanley 42X sawset on *bay
listed in the wrong category - I paid $5 - it works perfect.

Thanks to all for sharing your knowledge and camaraderie.

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