This weekend, I had the joy of welcoming a family to Chavez Carving for a hands on retreat. A father and four sons came together from New Mexico and other parts of the country to celebrate, spend time with one another, and try something new with chainsaws and wood.
The family included a doctor, a lawyer, a dad who had once been a pilot, and a son in law. What they shared was a willingness to learn, encourage one another, and enjoy the experience together. By the end, they each had a carving of their own and a story connected to it.
Skills that carry from one carving to the next
As we worked, I introduced skills that could be used again on the next carving. We practiced making confident cuts, shaping the wood, and noticing how small decisions changed the form. Each new project gave everyone a chance to build on the last one.
Evan told me he could feel those skills transferring with each new carving. That was a meaningful moment for me. Learning to carve is not just about completing one piece. It is about gaining confidence, recognizing progress, and discovering that what you learned a few minutes ago can help you with the next challenge.
The right people at the right time
I shared something I have come to believe through my own life: the right people and opportunities have a way of arriving at the right time. I believe there is a reason people cross our paths, and that each meeting can leave us with something worth carrying forward.
This family reminded me how much can happen when people make time to be together. They traveled a long way, supported one another as they learned, and created something with their own hands. I am grateful our paths crossed this weekend.
A memorable bachelor party idea in Washington
If you are looking for a bachelor party idea that gives everyone something to do and something to take home, a carving retreat is a memorable way to spend time together. No previous carving experience is needed. I guide each participant through safe tool use and the steps of creating a carving, at a pace that works for the group.
Chavez Carving retreats are held near Newport, Washington. Friends, families, and bachelor parties can ask about one day and two day options, available dates, and what to bring. I wish this great group all the best, and I hope each carving brings back a few memories from a weekend well spent.