Some folks seem to think that the winter holiday season is the hardest on their budget. Not so with me -- it's the graduation/wedding season that makes my wallet look as bare as last year's Christmas tree. Now, let me cushion that mean-sounding statement with this: few things make me happier than young people moving successfully and hopefully forward with their lives. (But why does it have to be so expensive?) I was cogitating on this very subject a short while ago when I was suddenly struck by an epiphany (don't worry, it only hurt for a minute).

In a nutshell, my thinking came to this: I love to turn small projects, people love to get one of a kind personal gifts, and I can get lots of turning wood for next to nothing. It's truly sweet and simple. So this week I am putting my new program to work with a couple of large salad bowls for two different sets of newlyweds. I love them dearly, and it is my hope that they will love the gifts.

Rob Johnstone, Woodworker's Journal

P.S. Speaking of being thrifty: be sure to check out the ads and the Industry Interview and Tool Preview for this issue of the eZine. Gorilla Glue is our sponsor this time out, and their support means that we can continue to send the eZine out to you free of charge.