Guest Column - Carrel Moore

May 1, 2021


Most of our Bennington Rotarians are leaders, managers, teachers, administrators and others who often deal with the difficult business and social justice problems. As knowledge workers we are paid to develop and implement ideas, projects, to further the mission of our organizations. We must navigate thru legal, social and political issues to move things forward. As exciting as this process can be, success is most often not rewarded with clear defined accomplishments at the end of the day, week, month or even year. This is why I think that it is important to have a hobby or activity outside of professional life that can give a sense of accomplishment and completion. It should be something that provides tangible results.

For me woodworking has been my go to activity for the past 50 years. At first of course it was out of necessity to build something we wanted for the house but could not afford. Later as my skills, acquired tools and experience increased I found that it was a necessary part of my life to produce something I could view as a completed project. I enjoy every aspect of building furniture or other useful projects like built ins or bookcases. I first plan in my head then draw and redraw the plans before I start the actual construction. Once the assembly is complete there is the finishing process. On the better pieces I use a 12 step hand rubbed finish process that takes approximately two weeks. To me the whole process is rewarding and I am all consumed until the project is complete.

Over the years I have built many pieces of furniture some for our house but many others for children, grandchildren and friends. Woodworking has given me a great deal of enjoyment in retirement since I can work on it as much as I like; therefore, I am always looking for a good project to keep me busy and happy. The pictures are recent examples.


Author: Carrel Moore
Kristi Cross (Club Member & Windmill Editor)