LarryJoe701

I'm a proud father, software engineer, and hobby woodworker. I come from a family of woodworkers and carpenters spanning at least 4 generations; my earliest memory of my grandfather is working in his basement, building a toy wooden wagon together. On the shelf in my den I have three candlestick holders made from the spindles of the staircase in the home built by my great-grandfather. Over the years, my father taught me much about woodworking and he helps on projects to this day. Even my father-in-law is a woodworker; for a number of years they gave me woodworking books every Christmas. I'm excited to continue the tradition and teach my son as he grows.

As a father of a son (2009) and two (soon to be three) daughters (2012, 2014, 2018), I have lots of reasons for projects and not nearly enough time to complete them all. I built my son a collection of small wooden toys, but unfortunately haven’t continued with my daughters to the same extent given the increased demands fatherhood has placed on my time. Perhaps as they get a little older I can spend more time crafting by including them in projects.

My love of math, computers, and wood have gone together since the beginning. Geometric patterns are prevalent. Most of the original mechanical puzzles I have built were designed and tested first on the computer. These days, it’s easier to be present with my family by working on designs inside on the computer than running the saw, so I expect some CAM work in my future.

-- Larry Joe in Georgia