"Every Dark Cloud Has a Silver Lining"

While visiting the Orchard family and sharing in their grief, I had the opportunity to collect some nice wood from the family farm that I will incorporate into my GIS as homage to my mother-in-law.

The Orchard farm has a bit forest on it and during a previous ice storm some trees were knocked down.  My brother-in-law went to clear the various trails of fallen trees when he noticed that some of them were serious hardwood; Black Walnut and Hickory.  He recognized the value of the lumber and put some hard work into salvaging what was downed.  A quick trip to a nearby mill and, voila!

The "Back Hill" where Walnuts sometimes fall

What might have fed insects and worms can now make our world more purdy

Yes, it's THAT dark

Goatward bound Walnut

Goatward bound Hickory

I plan to use the Walnut in a few key spots that can show of its color and grain.  The Hickory might find use as a tiller extension and possibly the pointy end of the bow.  It might also go to a different project altogether.

Much gratitude goes to brother-in-law Monte, who did the hard job of harvesting.  He graciously donated what might have gone into his own woodworking projects (such as the gorgeous kitchen he is building).