The voices started for me long ago. My father taught me how to use hand
tools long before I ever set hand on a power tool. Actually my brother and
I started out with pick and shovel first. We were given a 'project' any
time we committed any offense. We enjoyed them, so my folks changed
tactics. :)

Recently I decided I wanted to make furniture. 

After reading rec.norm for too long, and being dismayed about the
amount of space power tools take, I stumbled across the EN site. Probably
from one the the galoot postings on rec.norm, as I recall now.

Once I got a couple of tools, and talked to my woodshop instructor (I was
learning how to use planers, etc. at adult educ.) I decided that I did not
really need powered machinery to do woodworking.

Now I am on my way with my motley collection of a couple of working block
planes, and a jack and now a jointer plane. My workbench is halfway done,
and I have a backlog of furniture to repair and projects to build.

I think I am sliding down the old tool slope now. I was out in my garage
with my step-FIL the other day, and my jaw hit the floor when he said
that his uncle was into tools and has been moved to a nursing home. He
has a house and barn full of stuff. Rooms packed to the ceiling. Been going
to farm auctions for 50 years, buying stuff. A year ago, if I heard 
that, I would not have batted an eye. Now I am trying to figure out
how to make the trip before they 'bulldoze the house under, too much junk
to sort thru'.

	Steve