New beginnings once more as the New Year dawns

Each year, about now, I like to steal some time from my typical work days and use it to learn some new skills. This is not about merely making some resolutions but rather taking some serious time to invest in my future. It is an ongoing process really, for this year like in the past, I started preparing some months back. Installing the new four axis router was the first step. Now, in the next few weeks I have to get up to speed on the new machine. That will involve learning new processes and techniques. Thankfully I have the best support possible as MultiCam, the builders of the machine are working closely with me. 

As it was six years ago, we are again blazing new ground with EnRoute, the software that interfaces with the robotic machine. These fine folks are carefully listening to what I want to do and then figuring out just how they will write the code that will allow it to be possible. It is pretty exciting stuff!

I also will be tackling whole a new 3D software, that will help us create the files we will export to the machine software.This will be my biggest personal challenge. I am starting to play with the software at this point, seeing what is possible, how I will transpose my style to the new way of working. As always the idea will be to combine our old skills and tools with new, exciting tools of the digital age. No paying projects for this stuff are yet on the horizon. I know better. It is a time to simply have fun, explore, test the waters. It is a time to invest in the future. The best is yet to come.

Here's my first 3D sculpt of an old man's head after only twenty minutes with the 3D software. 

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Imagine what may soon be possible...

-grampa dan

The things we got for Christmas

Each year as we bump into those we know after Christmas, the inevitable question is, 'What did Santa get you?'

Christmas at our house is simple. It is about family. We gather and enjoy time with each other. There are still some presents under the tree of course. The kids (and grandkids get the bulk of them. Janis & I stopped giving Christmas presents to each other some years ago, instead indulging each other through the year with things we need (or want) as we are able. A trip to Disneyland, or a new tool (toy) takes the place of Christmas gift giving.

One thing we continue to do is share is Christmas stockings, first thing each Christmas morning. They are filled by 'Santa' of course, but we all know how that really works. Theorectically the things stuffed inside (and they should fit inside) are small and inexpensive, but sometimes it seems the 'helper elves' get carried away. Janis and I love to surprise each other - a very tough thing to do for we've been together so long and we just know how the other thinks. It is a challenge each and every year.

Each year we make a wish list for the family gift exchange. I ALWAYS put socks on my list, but Janis ALWAYS sneaks back after I'm done to cross them off the list for she has a secret stash of my favorite brand of socks for when I need new ones - doled out one pair at a time, at her discretion of course. Each time I make a huge case about how a fabulous day always starts with some comfy NEW socks.

I knew something was up on Christmas morning as Janis & I went to the living room. She was obviously anxious to see my reaction when I saw my stocking. When I saw it I had to smile.

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There IS a Santa Claus! 

-grampa dan

Christmas bonus

This time of the year I thoroughly enjoy the many emails, letters and cards we recieve from people I have been in contact with through the year. As things wind down many who attended our workshops or seminars take the time to let me know how they have implemented the things they learned. Some send pictures of their recent projects. I always enjoy reading each note, and love to see the projects they have done. Seeing what we teach being put into action makes it all very rewarding.

As we do our projects through the year our clients become good friends. They too often take the time from their busy lives to let me know how they enjoy the things we created for them. It's gratifying for I always pour my heart into every project we do. Each one is much more than just a job. 

Surprisingly, some of our customers also send us flowers and gifts. It is certainly not necessary, for we merely did what we promised, but it is truly appreciated.

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I am so fortunate to be abe to do what I love each day (instead of simply working). Having people appreciate these same things is a HUGE bonus!  

Thank you!  I wish a MERRY CHRISTMAS to ALL!

-grampa dan