I received a ton of e-mail (regarding my garage and its current disheveled state as discussed in the last eZine) from you folks saying, in essence, that I am not alone – or even unique – in my messiness. (I guess I should have guessed that last part.) Several readers said that I had inspired them to clean up their shops. All I can say is "I'm sorry"; that was not my intent. In any event, my personal cleaning quest has progressed pretty much as my wife expected. There has been much planning and blustery talk. A few determined trips out to the garage (I've actually put a few more pieces of important stuff into the garage …), but very little cleaning. (Did I mention by which September 1st I would have this done?)

On a more important and serious note, I would like to ask you to read Michael Dresdner's article about the Empty Bowls project. As he explains in his article, it is a way to help feed those in need. And the part I like the most is the grassroots nature of the project. To say that it is organized is a generous euphemism, but to say that it is effective is a remarkable understatement. Perhaps you'd like to be a part of the effort.

And one more thing, I give you permission to make the bowl before you clean your shop.

Sincerely,

-- Rob Johnstone, editor: Woodworker's Journal