Born in the 1930’s, Grandpa Harold was a tool & die maker by trade but he always enjoyed woodworking. His dad was a carpenter/craftsman by trade so, perhaps it was just in his blood. Once Grandpa retired from full time work in the 90’s, he was able to devote more time to his woodworking passion. I remember, as a teenager, stopping by occasionally in the evenings to visit with my grandparents and Grandpa would always be in his shop working on his latest project. Before long, I began helping him and learning the art of woodworking. Sometimes, he’d give me some of his tools to take home to practice with. Gradually, I became bitten by the woodworking bug and began buying tools of my own only to rush out to Grandpa’s to show him my latest addition to my very own woodworking tool collection. Looking back, those were magical times where he shared with me a big part of not only what he knew but of who he was and I am a better man today for those times. Today, Grandpa takes care of his beloved wife of over 60 years who suffers from Alzheimer’s but he still manages to make time for the occasional woodworking project and now I have the privilege of working right beside him whenever possible. I’m still learning from Grandpa, about woodworking and about being a man of integrity who takes pride in his work. He still amazes me quite often and, as we have both grown older, I appreciate him all the more. “Taught by Grandpa” showcases as much his talent as my own for I know that it was because of his patience, love, and dedication to both the craft and to me that I can accomplish today works of art that would make him proud. This is my way to pay homage to the man who taught me how to do what I love and do it the very best that I can. One day, I will be able to teach my children the woodworking craft; handing down the skill, the art, the tradition, and the legacy that began over 80 years ago. Grandpa, thank you for all you have meant to me for so many years. None of this would be possible without you. You are not only my teacher, you are my inspiration.