Benefits of Being a LumberJock

What are the benefits of being a LumberJock?
The biggest benefit I have found is the wealth of knowledge in the forums, and the creative influence of the participating members. I have only been on the site 7 days, and have a whole queue projects lined up already.

-- David, Charlotte NC (http://beechcreeknaturals.etsy.com)

Debbie,

I’ve particiapted in forum discussion on the topic of woodworking for many years. There are many forums where you can ask a question, get an answer and you’re done. Problem solved, life moves on. What lumberjocks brings is not a community by the general forum sense, that is, a collection of people with like interestes. Lumberjocks is different. Lumberjocks is made up of people, in my experience, that will help you with veneering, tuning your bandsaw, or if you lived close by moving your fridge. Lumberjocks is not a community of people with like interests, it’s a community of people that are becoming friends 21st century style.

Via the internet, and via this site, I have access to people that explain and teach their skills like David. Wonderful craftsman that are willing to explain how it’s done and answer questions like Lee. Amazing artists who give fantastic backgrounds and context to their pieces like Mark. The proverbial grandfather’s that are always seem to know the answer to the questions you are asking, like Dick and Karson. Guys/gals that can create a unique way of solving everyday woodworking problems like Niki. Woodworkers that share their passion for their particular niche’ like Frank and WayneC. Great box makers like Don. Woodworkers that have taken technology of design to a higher level and then reach their hand back to help the rest of us get there like Bob Babcock. You get professional woodworkers like Obi, Todd, Chris and Neil, interacting with newbies (term of endearment). You get organizers and contributers like Debbie, comedians like Douglas. You get great bloggers like oscorner and Dusty can go on and on and on. If you feel left off that list, please realize that it’s not a list…I’m just writing this in a few seconds to reply between things at work.

The benefit of being a Lumberjock is having a group of people that are willing to share, willing to help, willing to joke around, willing to communicate, willing to set aside differences of opinion and learn, willing to critique…The benefit of being a lumberjock is having a large group of friends.

Then there’s Bob ...you have to have the bad with the good.

But then, take a look at the entire community here. It’s an impressive cross section of people from all over the world. That’s the benefit of being a lumberjock.

In reading this to eliminate spelling mistakes, I can think of 20 others to mention…I hope you all get my point.

-- You can discover more about a person in an hour of play than in a year of conversation. (Plato)

For me it’s the song! <vbg>
I wanted to be a Lumberjack!...
You folks are O.K. too.

Bob

-- A mind, like a home, is furnished by its owner

The benefits of being a LumberJock are of such a depth as yet to be discovered. As a recent participant I have been overwhelmed by the acceptance and encouragement regardless of skill level. I received welcome messages before I even finished typing my profile—- talk about feeling welcome! From my short time here I have derived benefit from interacting with a bunch of good folks who really like making stuff out of wood. If that were all there was it would be enough. But there is a distinct pleasure in viewing the work of fellow LumberJocks, like sharing a delicious meal. Then there are ideas —- too many ideas of things to build when there’s time (and there’s never enough time). The expertise is remarkable. The things I’ve learned in the past week are multitude and that’s not counting different ways of seeing just regular activities. The fact that all this is available from people who know their stuff and are willing to share is again worth the price of admission. And then of course, it’s all free. If them ain’t benefits, then shave my head and call me slick.

As to the matter of how I will use LumberJocks on my woodworking journey, well, I fully hope the participation will drive me further than I could have gone on my own steam. As it stands now, I am in awe of the skill and talent represented here and can only dream of a day when I can come close to that level. I already feel more confident merely by association and look forward to more quality in my own work as I absorb the artistry on display here.

I cannot say that I will use LumberJocks, so much as I will allow the interactive existential experience to mold my humble skills into that ultimate woodworker that heretofore has been dormant in the very bowels of my being. (Okay, maybe that was a tad over the top.)

In truth, LumberJocks has been the best thing I’ve found on the Internet.

-- When you give someone a chance it may well be their last.

Bob and that damn song. Don’t forget, you live close to me. I think I might get some loudspeakers and boom that outside your shop. LOL

-- You can discover more about a person in an hour of play than in a year of conversation. (Plato)

I wonder what the neighbours would think ;)

-- ~ Debbie, Canada (http://www.execulink.com/~yohan)

Mot, there’s a free scone and tea if you come dressed up, <g>

HaHaHa

Bob

-- A mind, like a home, is furnished by its owner

That’s us, Web 2.0 at its finest! So much more than a forum, a q/a site, and a gallery,.. more like a “local” watering hole where we can all meet up, share, learn and inspire each other. Such a friendly place to be, neighborly, an oasis amid the cynical, spiteful and overly obsessed blog-o-sphere. Not that we’re without our own senses of humor and politics, we just leave the latter at the door.

Amongst all the websites and blogs I’ve bookmarked and try to read weekly, if not daily (even ones written by “real world” friends and family), Lumberjocks is the only one I actually manage to keep tabs on. Got to know what we’re all up to!

-- I am always doing what I cannot do yet, in order to learn how to do it. - Pablo Picasso -- http://blanchardcreative.etsy.com -- http://snbcreative.wordpress.com/

For the last ,Oh so many years, I have felt alone. I had no one to talk shop with unless I went to town to do business. As you can imagine there are no woodworkers here. I get to talk shop with a few saddle makers for the third weekend in May(The Big Loop Rodeo) when they come from all over to try to take away what little local business there is. I get to visit with the gang at Woodcraft and the lumber supplier but that is limited. The last 32 days have been great. I have started to develope some great relationships here and no longer feel like I’m talking to the wall. I could name names but I will just say that this is one of the greatest groups in the world. I don’t check this every day, I check it at least three times a day. I wish I lived in a town with each and every one of you. Oh crap, nobody would get anything done but gab.

-- Thos. Angle

Lumberjocks is just like family, that you can’t touch , but they’re there when you need them.

If anyone has a health issue, they’re right there to give you support.

I don’t sell anything, most everything I make is for a gift, or for our own pleasure, so it’s kind of nice to be able to show things to people like you. I haven’t yet even touched the surface of projects to show off.

I enjoy trying to help find a solution for anyone who has a problem. If I don’t have the answer, I search for it, which is a lot of fun, & I learn something myself in the process.

I also learn a lot, just from you Lumberjocks, & of course it’s nice to see your projects also.

-- -** You are never to old to set another goal or to dream a new dream ****************** Dick, & Barb Cain, Hibbing, MN. http://www.woodcarvingillustrated.com/gallery/member.php?uid=3627&protype=1

scottb said: Not that we’re without our own senses of humor and politics, we just leave the latter at the door.

Amen, brother Lumberjock. I’ve said it before and probably will again as I have a proclivity to repeat myself…Lumberjocks is conspicuously missing the regular forum knuckleheads that have to criticize and detract from conversation, rather than contribute and add to it. Scottb said it better.

Cheers!

-- You can discover more about a person in an hour of play than in a year of conversation. (Plato)

Why am I a lumberJock. Because I like family. You are my only family that shares my common interest. I’ve got my wife and children. I starting to get Dan and Dave involved in woodworking projects and taking classes, because gosh dang it I want to talk woodworking with family.

The visit I had with Marc DeCou was great It was like we always knew each other. Joel and Kev and Joel’s wife and Marc wife, we all sat down in Marc’s home and had a great visit.

I’ve had Greg3G and Lance (Bob) visit in my shop and Zipsss stopped by with his wife and we shared some time together. We’d never have met without the internet and Martin’s LumberJocks web site. I have some more visiting up my sleeve and plans for enhanced meetings with LumberJocks. Why, because we want to share,. Share skills, food, talents and look for the assistance from others that we are also able to give.

I mean Rachiel, Marc’s daughter invited me back for her birthday, that’s family. And yes sometimes we have to bite our tongue and go on to another subject. But, when we see something like this we just have to share it with our friends.

-- What happens in the workshop stays in the workshop. No wait that doesn't sound right. Karson Southern Delaware karson_morrison@bigfoot.com †

What are the benefits of Lumberjocks? Hmmm.

It started out with a recommendation from Marc Spagnuolo’s site, and I visited to see what I could learn. I had been to several other sites that featured woodworking topics and was turned off by snarky, officious answers and one-upmanship. I never got the sense that there was that sort of thing going on here, and after a bit of time began to have favorites amongst the members. I was interested in the projects they made, or their depth of experience, or the fact that they were honest enough to give gentle criticism, in small doses without beating the showcasing member with the jawbone of an ass. Then I saw that there was a way to be a buddy.

I think the buddy system here adds another dimension to this site. The feeling that someone felt you were special enough among the others to subscribe to your blogs, project and forum topics. You wake up in the morning, get coffee and check the mail, and see so-and-so posted thus-and-such, and you have to see it, ask a few questions and pass out the attaboys (attagirls too). It adds to the sense of community.

I really like what Mot said, in that this community has and sustains it’s archetypical characters: the Grandfathers, the Poets, the Teachers, the Engineers, Artists and Jesters. And it’s Cowboys, Bushrangers, Bikers and Wiseacres. So I came for the knowledge, stay for the sense of community and revel in the fact that I can “play” with a few good buddies – organizing something behind the scenes, or keeping some running joke going for days.

And to sum up I have to tip my hat to Martin. He is constantly buffing up of the interface, bring more relevance to the site with the personal home page, the pulse and shuffle features, the e-Zine and the roll the dice splash page. The fact that the advertising is discreet, without animated gifs and rollover Flash silliness is another blessing. Thanks for making this happen Martin, and thanks to all of us that make this a family.

-- "Bordnerizing" perfectly good lumber for over a decade.

thanks everyone.

I’ll be quoting some of the above in future LJ “stuff”.

-- ~ Debbie, Canada (http://www.execulink.com/~yohan)

Once again, I have to jump in.

I’ve visited many forums. I’ve rarely participated. All the things said here, by MY family of friends and woodworking collegues, either the professionals, or the ones working on their first project is inspiring, not only in the obvious way of causing one to achieve higher levels of woodworking abilities, but in a personal way. A way of making others feel important and welcomed.

As you can see by the number of posts I have made in the past 50 days, I’m here often. This is easily ten times the posts I’ve made in all other forums in the last ten years!

As Tom said, I don’t check it once a day , it’s more like five or even ten times a day. And I’m not really looking for woodworking tips, although I’m finding them, I’m looking for the family style relationship I witness here everyday. I’m looking for situations where I’m able to help others, in a way that’s not usually available. Where specific answers are available to everyone, instantly, without anyone being treated like they are less of a person because the don’t know everything. This is the group for me!

I can honestly say that I agree with all the positive comments made by my friend here, and that I am proud to be associated with all of you!

Lee

-- by Lee A. Jesberger http://www.prowoodworkingtips.com http://www.ezee-feed.com

Lee I’m glad you are here also with your breath-of-fresh-air brashness to people who rub you the wrong way.

Remind me to always keep you on the good side of the family.

-- What happens in the workshop stays in the workshop. No wait that doesn't sound right. Karson Southern Delaware karson_morrison@bigfoot.com †

Deb…you make basic questions thought provoking somehow.

Personally…it has distilled the composite knowledge of 1000’s of years of experience, presented it to me, and somehow done it while making me feel like I’m just shooting the breeze with my friends.

As many have mentioned. The positive vibe on this site is what sets it apart. I’ve even been the knucklehead Tom talks about, getting drawn into a stupid thread that I should have walked away from…..so to speak. No other forum (forum is the wrong word for LJ) community?....better, still goes deeper than that….....anyway…. no other place has this feel. I feel like I’m home. I wish my Dad was still around to be a part of this.

-- Bob, Carver Massachusetts, Sawdust Maker http://www.capecodbaychallenge.org

Lee I mean that in the good sense of a way. Telling someone that the batteries were dead in your Magic Wand is a great comeback.

-- What happens in the workshop stays in the workshop. No wait that doesn't sound right. Karson Southern Delaware karson_morrison@bigfoot.com †

I liked that one too, Karson. Ol’ Lee can whack ‘em and make ‘em think he paid ‘em a compliment. That’s Jersey fer ya.

-- Thos. Angle

And then, of course, there’s the song. Bob…I’m coming to get you!

-- You can discover more about a person in an hour of play than in a year of conversation. (Plato)

Mot don’t go over there “dressed up”. It’s not even worth buttered scones, tea and kippers.
I’ll bet you don’t even have suspenders.

-- "Bordnerizing" perfectly good lumber for over a decade.

now that would be a benefit—- seeing Tom in full “Canadian LumberJock” garb singing “I’m a LumberJock and I’m OK”

-- ~ Debbie, Canada (http://www.execulink.com/~yohan)

Benefits! I was turned onto this site thru a woodcarving site and I came here to just maybe by chance spark some LJ’s into trying carving to add to their projects but it quickly turned into learning new and better ways to tackle woodworking and a grand fellowship among all.

Love can be hard for me to say sometimes but I really do love this site and the people that are here!

-- " All Things At First Appear Difficult"

The 5 most important benefits of being a LumberJock …

1. LumberJocks Tool Exchange – OK, I get the joke … just don’t ever break the news to my wife! lol

2. LumberJocks Wood Exchange – OK, so I forgot to fill the rest of you in on this one! Who’s laughin’ now? lol

3. LumberJocks Challenge – a great way to explain that mysterious package that just arrived!! lol

4. LumberJocks Member Reviews – all that free stuff Martin’s sponsors keep sending me to review is great!!! lol

5. LumberJocks Free Adult Entertainment Section – OK, hopefully this one works better for you than it did for me!!! lol

OK, in all seriousness … over the years, I have been a regular on several message boards … covering a wide variety of topics … not just woodworking (and for those of you wondering … yes, I’m always the class clown) ... but I’ve yet to find one that is as welcoming as this one. It’s one thing to share knowledge … but it’s another thing to share passion … and that’s the one thing that sets this place apart from the others … that’s the one thing that makes this place so addicting … people sharing the passion for this thing we call woodworking.

-- Lip's Dysfuncational Firewood Farm, South Bend, IN

you missed the biggie Lip – the lumberjock exchange. Hopefully out spouses don’t catch wind of that one!

-- I am always doing what I cannot do yet, in order to learn how to do it. - Pablo Picasso -- http://blanchardcreative.etsy.com -- http://snbcreative.wordpress.com/

Debbie, that is one thing that you can say is NEVER going to happen. :)

-- You can discover more about a person in an hour of play than in a year of conversation. (Plato)

we could do a duet !!! ??

-- ~ Debbie, Canada (http://www.execulink.com/~yohan)

Ms D:

It’s the unpretentious elegance seen through the individual respect each of us have for one another. I find that healthy to witness and be a part of.

Also the Design Challenges are an aspect of woodworking that is overlooked. The idea of building to a dead-line and presenting your work is so critical to moving your skill-set forward and LJ’s provides that opportunity.

I like the positive nature of the LJ forum…........Neil

I went to college to learn the “how”. Here I find the “why” I work wood. The list of inspirations I’ve found here is a long one.

-- http://www.woodsongsfurniture.com

everyone is such eloquent writers!
And the sentiment behind the words is exactly why I love being here at LJ so much. You guys (male/female) are such cool people!

-- ~ Debbie, Canada (http://www.execulink.com/~yohan)

Benefits of Being a LumberJock

• A fellowship of woodworking enthusiasts.

• A technical support forum where you can get answers to questions regarding woodwork.

• A place to display your projects to get the opinions and perspectives of others.

• A supportive, non-hostile group of woodcrafters, who will not belittle you if you ask a question.

• A unique group of NICE people, who are really willing to help you become a better woodworker.

• A place to find ideas for your next woodworking project.

• A place where you can get some of the “tricks of the trade” from those who know them.

These are a few of the benefits to me.

-- Tom, Surfside Beach, SC - Romans 8:28

Thanks Tom.

As I look at this list, I’m thinking that Martin can use the information on this page to help him fine-tune the site even further.

-- ~ Debbie, Canada (http://www.execulink.com/~yohan)

You’re welcome Debbie – glad to help!

-- Tom, Surfside Beach, SC - Romans 8:28

I stated getting on this site about two months ago and this my first reply. I have been working in wood for about 40 years and now that retirement is here we started a new shop. Your site has been a real help and I love looking at all the projects that get posted every day. Getting on 3 and 4 times a day just looking around has been very satiistfying even though I don’t participate, it’s a great read.

-- Pat, Murfreesboro. Tn

even if you weren’t posting, you were still participating, just silently.
And now—you’ve added to the greatness of the site with your kind words.

Looking forward to what comes next ;)

-- ~ Debbie, Canada (http://www.execulink.com/~yohan)

I do not do as much posting as others . . . but I try to lurk a few times a day.

I like this place for all the same reasons as everyone else.

What I find amazing is that we are from all four corners of the globe and enjoy the site for almost all the same reasons.

Gotta run . . . Im out on the deck with my laptop and the battery just went to 10%.

-- The significant problems we face cannot be solved by the same level of thinking that created them

Family-
I lost both uncles over the past 2 years, both where master carpenters. I feel very alone now and have no one to talk with anymore about how something should and/or could be done. Until I found lumberjock’s. I miss them a lot and not a day goes by that I don’t think about them. There was a big hole in my life and this site helped fill that. All of you are my collective uncles. I can’t say thank you enough.

Inspiration-
To see the project that people share and some of the depth they will go into explaining how something was done is priceless and makes me feel like I am home again. My words lack the strength to express my thanks, and how deeply I feel that thanks, to you all. It seems so trivial to say “great project, thanks for sharing”. It just is not enough but I feel like witting that on most of the projects I view.

-- "so much to learn and so little time"..

Debbie,

I was not, nor am I, a writer with any real credentials.

I am simply a woodworker.

However, the Lumberjocks web site has allowed me to share my story and experiences with my fellow Lumberjocks.

Many of you know I have been blessed .

My work and crafts has been featured in several prominent magazines, newspaper articles along with various TV shows.

All of those experiences and honors that have been bestowed upon me has not as rewarding as being able to share my experiences in the writing of ” This Old Crack House ” .

I have been allowed to share my projects and experiences with all of the Lumberjocks who have been so encouraging and supportive .

This has been humbling.

I am honored and great full for this.

The support, kind words, messages, and feed back from so many of you has made this site and my experiences not only very memorable and valuable, but something I will never forget .

l will always be be great full not only this site, but what makes this site great.

That is ,all The Lumberjocks. and there contributions.

Martin, along with many others who contribute so much of there time and talents in so many unselfish ways, is what makes this a very special and unique site.

Thank you.

-- Dusty

what i’ve found here is what i think we all are: a group of good people who just look for the good in others and – i think we all have a freaky wood fetish.

-- life can always be weaved into a song.

hahaha a freaky wood fetish .. boy that’s awesome!! lol
glad I’m not alone on this one :)

-- ~ Debbie, Canada (http://www.execulink.com/~yohan)

I prefer to keep it a mildly out of contol obsession, rather than a fetish. Too many splinters!!

Lee

-- by Lee A. Jesberger http://www.prowoodworkingtips.com http://www.ezee-feed.com

When I found Lumberjocks about a year ago I was so depressed I was ready to stick a shotgun in my mouth. I had lost my job of 12 years, I was in constant pain, and I barely left the house but to go the garage to putter on the lathe or something. Just trying not to think. I could’nt sleep, so many times I would be out there at 2 or 3 am just sitting feeling sorry for me. I was seeing a shrink and going to meetings( AA), but that was’nt helping. Then I found this site. And overnight it was like being reborn. Mark, Dick, karson, Oz all became immediate friends helping, talking, sharing, seeming to be genuinely interested in me and my work. It was as if I found something to live for again. I know it isnt a job but I can come and go any time and feel welcome. Ask and you shall receive. what a great group. Martin, God Bless him had the patience of Job. I asked him so many questions I’m sure he was praying I’d quit. But never a harsh word from anyone, only love, help and a handshake. I could go on and on but my hands are numb and this has gotten way to mushy but I love you all especially you old guys I started with who kept me here, I forgot Pat Sherman, and Frank and Earl. God Bless you all. Mike

-- Mike. mwurm13@yahoo.com

Mike you are welcome. Glad to be able to help. We love you also.

-- What happens in the workshop stays in the workshop. No wait that doesn't sound right. Karson Southern Delaware karson_morrison@bigfoot.com †

‘Cuz it’s friends. ‘Cuz we’re family. ‘Cuz it’s about being able to help each other out and pass on a hearty “pat-on-the-back”. ‘Cuz it’s sooo KEWL!

-- Bob Vila would be so proud of you!

(pat, pat, pat) :)

-- ~ Debbie, Canada (http://www.execulink.com/~yohan)

Debbie,

There is yet one more benefit of being a LumberJock:

• To give us a measure of HUMILITY.

• We get humility by seeing our work compared to those who are very gifted.

• We get humility by realizing that, if we are one of those who are thus gifted, it is ultimately a gift from God to us, and not something that we can pride ourselves in.

-- Tom, Surfside Beach, SC - Romans 8:28

You got that right Tom!

-- http://www.woodsongsfurniture.com

I have some of the same problems as described by Jockmike2, i suffer from depression,chronic pain,insomnia etc. and i have no contact with the outside world apart from my wife and kids and my mother. This is only my 3rd post although i pop in to read the threads as often as posible, and to me this is like an extended family where i know whatever mood i’m in all i have to do is pop in and i know i’m not alone. So i’d like to say “THANKS” everyone just for being here.

-- We Mackem and Tackem.

yes, it sure is nice to have a friend “just a click away”—there’s always something happening here, something to think about, to distract us from our own issues, to laugh at, cry at, learn from, be inspired from.. phew…

Pitbull – I’m glad that you are able to find a source of outside pleasure. Even though you are quite confined to a small environment, this takes you around the world and into a whole lot of living rooms and workshops!! Pretty exciting.

-- ~ Debbie, Canada (http://www.execulink.com/~yohan)

Hi Tom;

Just checking in on this topic once again, and I think you hit the nail on the head. The idea that any of us did not get some gifts from god is nuts. Everyone has received a share in gifts unique to him / her. Then he provides the resources, in my case wood, to work with that gift.

How sad is it that some people never realize which gift they’ve received until it’s too late to use, if ever.

I also feel it should be our pleasure in sharing that gift with others who have an interest in it. In my case the prowoodworkingtips site. I enjoy passing on what has been shared with me, or I have figured out, using the gifts given to me.

I think the pride comes from knowing that you used those gifts to the best of your ability!

Lee

-- by Lee A. Jesberger http://www.prowoodworkingtips.com http://www.ezee-feed.com

Lee,

You sure are one of the best I know at sharing what you’ve “figured out.” I really appreciate your willingness to share your knowledge with wanna-be’s like me. I fully recognize every time I go out and work in my shop, that I’ll NEVER get to the level of expertise that you’ve reached, but that’s OK – it’s still fun.

Thanks for being a good guy and telling us a few of the secrets that you’ve accumulated over the years!

-- Tom, Surfside Beach, SC - Romans 8:28

“here, here!”

a lot of people who have “made it” ... hold their secrets tightly… sometimes so tight that they don’t even let go when they leave this earth—and the secrets go with them!!

as I always say, put the “how to’s” into a bunch of people’s hands and you will get a bunch of different projects, based on their personal perspectives, goals, skiils, etc.

and if we talk about “God-given talents” – I’m sure that we were given these talents to share with others and to help others (even if you aren’t a “God” believer!

-- ~ Debbie, Canada (http://www.execulink.com/~yohan)

A wise man once said that if you know something and don’t share it, it’s like you never knew it.

Lots of wisdom here and the generosity is one of the most profound characteristics of this site.

-- When you give someone a chance it may well be their last.

HMMMMMMM…...why am I a lumberjock???

BECAUSE MY BIG BROTHER SAID THAT I HAD TO BE ONE OR HE WOULD BEAT ME UP…...I WENT AND TOLD MOM (because she always liked me best) AND SHE SAID TO QUIT BEING A BABY AND LISTEN TO MY BIG BROTHER…..HE’S NOT AS DUMB AS HE LOOKS AND THAT HE MIGHT BE ON TO A GOOD THING…..LOL.

Really though, I have found LJ to be a very wonderful community that has given me great tips, ideas, and company. I can only hope that someday that I will be able to help others as I have been helped and made a better craftsman.

Much appreaciation and gratitude

Adrian

-- Adrian ..... The 11th Commandment...."Thou Shalt Not Buy A Wobble Dado"

Mom sounds like she is very wise, as all mothers are! :)

-- ~ Debbie, Canada (http://www.execulink.com/~yohan)

In just 28 days as a Lumberjock, I’ve visited workshops thousands of miles a way; I’ve laughed at the wonderful humour that abounds; I’ve found something I can do with photographs of some of the stuff I’ve made; I’ve glowed in the praise of fellow LJs; I’ve added tons (tonnes?) of new ideas and potential projects to my mental list; I’ve enjoyed looking at the massive range of work done by others; I’ve made a jig I’d never have thought of; I’ve been encouraged to get out to the workshop when perhaps I otherwise might not have bothered; I’ve enjoyed the company. Enough already; and that’s just my first four weeks. Thanks all!

-- Res severa verum gaudium - True pleasure is a serious business. http://www.folksy.com/shops/TreeGems

Just joined LJ a two weeks ago. I have found LJ to be a wonderful group of people, who truly want to be supportive of each other. I have viewed other forums and found far too much ego and need to dominate the discussion. Here on LJ, I have found everyone is respectful.

I go to the LJ site daily and often more than once a day to read what new threads or postings have come up. It is all so educational and reflects a sense of community between members from the novices to the very experience woodworking crafts persons.

I am excited have access to and being part of a rich community of people interested in woodworking. It is a place where I can ask questions, learn and maybe even add some value in the future.

Dalec

All of the above! But most of all the sense of community and mutual respect. People can ask questions without fear of being ridiculed and share opinions without fighting. There’s a wealth of knowledge flowing from very talented people, there are no “attitudes” and no one has anything to prove.

When I first signed up (which wasn’t all that long ago) I was indunated with “Welcome Aboard” messages from members. One in particular (from PanamaJack) said “You have questions, we’ll answer them. You have answers, we’ll question them.” and I thought to myself “I think I’m going to like it here”. I’m always looking to improve both my skills and as a person. God knows that I’ve got plenty of room for growth in both of those areas and this is the place to do it.

The well organized, easy to navigate web site got me interested; the quality of the projects/blogs that are posted reeled me in; the people using the site keep me comming back.

Q: ”What are the benefits of being a LumberJock?”
A: All of you

-- I've cut that board three times and it's still too short!

and you!

-- ~ Debbie, Canada (http://www.execulink.com/~yohan)

I’m a lumberjock because of the simplicity of this site. Nowhere have I found an easy use site to blog, share, chat, build relationships and more. I visit the site daily like a kid in the candy store. Long live the lumberjocks!

-- Hard work spotlights the character of people; some turn up their sleeves, some turn up their noses, and some don't turn up at all!

A place to share a passion about somthing with people who share the same passion, here we do’nt have two heads…....................

-- James - Geneva, Switzerland

yep – we can post a blog here, and get lots of comments and feedback. outside we’re typing in a vacuum (unless a jock pops by)

-- I am always doing what I cannot do yet, in order to learn how to do it. - Pablo Picasso -- http://blanchardcreative.etsy.com -- http://snbcreative.wordpress.com/

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-- James - Geneva, Switzerland

Over the past year I’ve used most of the time I’ve spent here on LJ’s learning and absorbing from some true craftsmen. Hopefully in the future, I will have more experienced knowledge and be able to add to conversations. But I am very thankful for the lessons learned and the teachers that take the time to share their wisdom with us.

-- Better to say nothing and be thought the fool... then to speak and erase all doubt.

Comic relief or my lame attempts at comedy. And family updates… “Hey, Scott”.

-- Rob (A) Waxahachie,TX

Sappy sappy, reallly sappy! Advantage of the lumberjocks???? Were too old to play football. The part I was told about chicks digging scars….well….my wife hates my scars….. My wife says my scars look more like a road map of new york! There goes my feelers!!!! Great forum and keep up the good work!! Oh if you fail to laugh at my posts…a pox upon ya!!!! Will figure out how to post some pics soon…

-- To those who fight for it, life has a flavor the protected never know. Unknown, on an empty C-ration box. Khe Sahn 1968

I talk about everyones posting, projects and comments as if you where all in my shop having coffee or tea on a daily bases. The door is always open I never had a better bunch of friends.

Ditto to all of the above.

-- Ron Central, CA

It’s great to meet people that you’d never have met. Some you are too late, and some just in time. It would be great to have a great-big LumberJock picnic and get everyone together. We could all bring our projects so we could see them in person. And let everyone discover the flaws that we were able to hide in the pictures we provided.

Thats who we are, a big group of imperfect people, that are willing to accept all those flaws in everyone else, while they/you skip over ours.

Clap, Clap, Clap to LumberJocks everywhere.

It is you that make LumberJocks great. And you are the reason we are here.

-- What happens in the workshop stays in the workshop. No wait that doesn't sound right. Karson Southern Delaware karson_morrison@bigfoot.com †

Unlike many other blogs and forums, I find the people on this website are very friendly and supportive. We each give each other “pats on the back” and teach each other new tricks and inspire us as well. I guess the biggest benefit for each of us are the following:

• A place to show our creations
• A place to receive positive comments
• A place to receive answers to our many questions
• A place for others to hear our problems
• A place where we can all get along

Personal benefits I have received from just a short time

• Money savings from suggestions by other members (especially on tools)
• Guidance on tools that I might need
• Input where to find lumber/wood
• Great Positive comments on my projects
• Met (though only online so far) many great people that I would like to meet in person.

This site gets many great members because we all share what we love and enjoy. Woodworking has saved many of us one way or another and a website that allows us to share our experiences only enhances that enjoyment.

I got a place to stay while travelling 1800 miles cross country, with a great dinner and great company to boot!

-- Todd A. Clippinger, Montana, http://amcraftsman.com

I feel this is a community of fellowship, knowledge and acceptance. I have only been a part of this community for a couple of months now but I feel like its what was missing in my life. I love the fact that the posts and comments left are positive and uplifting. There is no one upmanship as I have seen on any other forum I have visited.
I ditto the other fine words already said

Thanks to everyone hear for their particiption it really is an honor to be a part of this and to be a lumberjock!

-- Ed - Milan, IN

I get computer tech support.

-- Todd A. Clippinger, Montana, http://amcraftsman.com

I have gotten to know, and exchange pleasantries with a great group of craftsmen and women. I have made some solid friendships, and exchanged gifts or handiwork (thanks Thos. and Todd). And I got to host someone who I consider a major design and woodworking icon to a dinner of Nebraska beef and the trimmings. Sorry about there being nothing better than the couch to flop on, Todd.

And I get to help that noted Canadian lumberjock – MsDebbieP get around to shop tours. I couldn’t imagine a better place to hang out, to learn, to brag and to have fun. Thanks as always to a young gentleman from Slovakia. Whodathunkit!

-- "Bordnerizing" perfectly good lumber for over a decade.

I have been lurking about here for near a couple months and have to agree with just about everything said so far. Within moments fo signing up I was greeted by others and welcomed to the site. I visit several times aday and I am in AWE of some of you folks and your great talents. even more….your willingness to share them. I have had the opportunity to help others (though not with woodworking, your work is incredible) and have already decided that there are a few folks here that may have me show up on thier doorstep one day. Todd..If an old fat buy from Alaska suddenly shows up and startrs asking HUNDREDS of questions…...thats me.

I can beat my own drum !

-- work from your heart and your spirit will live forever

Only in it because you Deb…...................................................................... alright, & all the other Jocks as well. A great information & sharing community. The best there is.

-- Grumpy - "Always look on the bright side of life"- Monty Python

When I was in school girls were not allowed to take shop classes. My grandfather was the only woodworker I knew but he died when I was 8. I have learned woodworking by watching New Yankee Workshop, reading books and a few classes at a woodcraft store.

I am starting retirement, and using some of these books I bought to learn more woodworking. If I need to ask a question, I ask it here and get wonderful, quick responses. I am gaining confidence, and seeing myself growing as a woodworker.

We moved to a new state, to be near our children and grandchildren. I left all my friends, except for my fellow jocks, and I am very glad to have them with me.

-- Berta in NC

The projects are an inspiration, the information is priceless and the people are supportive. The only problem is, the site can get addictive.

God Bless
tom

-- Mc Bridge Cabinets, Iowa

OK…. so Ms Deb posted this question 291 days ago. And like a lot of things at the LJ it came back up. So let me ask this….... Does everyone still feel the same way?

For me, you have all said it already. There is no other place like it.

-- Brian's Table Top Toys http://home.mountaincable.net/~bgraham/

I still feel the same way!

When this was first posted I said, ”The benefits of being a LumberJock are of such a depth as yet to be discovered.” And now 10 months later it is even more true. It seems the more you know, the more there is to learn. And there is no better place than this to learn it.

-- When you give someone a chance it may well be their last.

4,500 Jocks with say an average of 15 years experience (give or take a few) = 67,500 years experience. Wow

-- Grumpy - "Always look on the bright side of life"- Monty Python

I found this new search site http://www.searchme.com and I thought I’d see where LumberJocks fit in their list. After several pages LumberJocks finally showed up and it was this page that was shown. That was cool.

-- ~ Debbie, Canada (http://www.execulink.com/~yohan)

Great effort of the search!
Searching is nicer and in style…
Thanks.

-- masrol, kuala lumpur, MY.

I just did a search (on searchme) and the second site that came up was John’s “Extreme Birdhouses”

-- ~ Debbie, Canada (http://www.execulink.com/~yohan)

I have been an lj for just a few days and have already met people in my area and someone that I already knew. It’s very cool!

-- Brent Builds Fences in Georgia http://www.profenceworks.com http://www.profenceworks.com/wood_fencing/custom.html

I know this thread is very old but wanted to thank Debbie and the many who have post here for there great thoughts of why we are members . Mostly I’m a member because of members like these fine folks.

-- Jim from Heirloom Woodshop Southern Oregon

wow.. this is a moldy-oldie!
thanks for the kind words Jim :)

-- ~ Debbie, Canada (http://www.execulink.com/~yohan)