Dallas, TX

That's where my lathe is right now. On a big ole freight truck. The tracking information I was given said it should arrive sometime tomorrow - and I should expect a phone call from the trucker so that we can decide on a delivery time.

I was reading the list of rules and regulations that govern the freight deliveries and I became a little worried. One of them said that truckers are not required to do anything more than show up at the designated time and place. I sure hope they don't expect ME to climb into the back of his truck and haul the thing to my parents garage. Ugh.

This morning my mom decided to wake me up very suddenly with a phone call. Yesterday she was talking to me about how she was unsure how much gas was in her van (none of her gauges work) and that she should probably stop and get some. Today she found out exactly how much gas she did have. The answer? None. So she called me asking for help when she found herself stranded in the Walmart parking lot.

After waking up earlier than I had planned, I was hoping I would be able to leave Avery with my mom at her house while I made a run to some craft store or woodworking supply to examine various blanks and pen kits. Much to my dismay however, there are no such places anywhere near where I live. The only 3 good stores (Rockler, and 2 Woodcraft) are are such inconvient locations, that driving there just to window shop by myself would be incredibly silly and a colossal waste of gas.

So I settled for browsing online and making up my own wish list of goodies - things I'll want to play with AFTER I've mastered the art of turning basic pine and oak pens. If some of these good blanks weren't so expensive, I'd just buy a ton of acrylic to turn - since I'd rather turn on something I enjoy. But no point in wasting money and good supplies figuring out what the heck I'm doing.

I did come across a couple good websites though, for those of you who are interested. International Association of Penturners is a great community (over 2000 active users strong!) of experienced and novice woodworkers alike. They are very helpful, kind, and generous. WoodTurningz.com offers a great selection (and excellent prices!) on pen kits and blanks. And, if I'm not mistaken, is run by one the the members of IAP.

As some of you have noticed, I have a space for a picture streaming gadget on the top of my blog. Currently my account only has 1 picture uploaded, and that is the picture of my daughter at 1 yr of age. Once I get my lathe, I'll post some pictures of the set up process, and eventually my pens, and those will fill in the space that my adorable little baby picture is holding. =)

I'll see you guys later - hopefully I'll have pictures (and a lathe) to share with you guys!