Jody the woodcarver!

I've started a new craft and so I thought I'd start a blog. I just want to write about this and I want to document my progression.
Twice a week I am privledge to be in the presence of the Chanhassen Woodcarvers. I work at the Senior Center where they meet and I am able to sneak a peak at what they are working on. They have inspired me to start woodcarving. Dad is also a wonderful characture carver and has given Perry many pieces over the years.
I have researched, read books and talked to carvers. I have subscribed to Woodcarving Illustrated. I am even considering joining a woodcarving club.
So Bob has given me a set of knives and gouges for Christmas. The morning after Christmas I put the bench knife in my hand and started cutting a block of wood. I promptly sliced open the side of my left hand. My 9 year old son, Perry, bandaged me and told me that I had to get one of those gloves. Fortunately, I had a quilters cutting glove in my arsonal of craft stuff.
Yesterday, I spent the day carving a pinecone from a block of basswood. It's a online class on the www.littleshavers.com site. Bob helped me eye the symetrical shape as I was carving. This morning I have a pinecone shape sitting on my dining room table. And a small blister on my right index finger which is a compliment to the bandage on my left hand.
I enjoyed my day thoroughly. I love sitting at my dining room table with my son. He built a Lego creation while I carved. I love the feel of the wood. I'm finding that carving is not only visual but also very tactal. Feeling the carving, feeling the curves and dips in the wood is very key to the work. I laugh at the wood chip trail that was left on the floor from the table into the kitchen and bathroom. Ha Ha Ha.
Now I have to figure out how to upload pictures so that I can show you my progress.
Follow along with me as I embark on this new adventure.