I can tell you, Pappy, that I have done a lot of things, been a lot of places, met one whole heck of a lot of people. My three visits to the Classic are all absolutely memorable, but this one takes not just the cake but the whole bakery and shebang!
To have the opportunity to shoot the breeze with so many people I have loved and corresponded with on this wonderful Forum for years was more valuable than any man's accumulated riches. And to meet others that know and understand this craft at levels I will never reach was inspiring. But it was the many people struggling with their first ever stave that moved me deeply. The philosophy of "each one teach one" is so deeply rooted in the soil of Twin Oaks and our community that it gives me hope for the future. Will's words ring true in me, this is a place that tillers the soul.
This community has been beyond generous to me, and I hope I can continue to be equally generous to the next ones coming up. Pappy, you in particular have given to me without stint or frugality. You have stood in as a father figure exhibiting strength, courage, good cheer, prudence, and wisdom when I needed a role model to help me emulate those attributes. I know I am a better man for having your influence on me.
Yeah, life IS good.
