Featured in Monterey County Weekly: How Retirement Took Me Outta the Office and Into the Woods

I was featured in an article by Monterey County Weekly, and I’m honoured to share a bit more about that journey here.

I didn’t plan for retirement to look like this—but I’m so glad it does.

The Monterey County Weekly article captures how this path unfolded, from junior high woodshop memories to the evolution of my climate-controlled workshop today. It’s a story of rediscovery, purpose, and the joy of creating something with your own two hands.

👉 Read the full article here

How Retirement Took Me Outta the Office and Into the Woods? I didn’t plan for retirement to look like this. I figured I’d maybe golf a bit, take up birdwatching, nap a lot. Instead, I ended up knee-deep in walnut slabs and epoxy, building everything from charcuterie boards to boardroom doors (yes, actual boardrooms).

Monterey County Weekly featured my journey, and I’m incredibly honoured. The article dives into how I got started, why I fell in love with woodworking, and what it means to turn raw wood into something beautiful and lasting. There’s also a bit in there about my work with Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing—a nonprofit that helps disabled veterans heal through fishing trips. It’s close to my heart, and just as rewarding as anything I’ve built in the shop.

My shop has grown, my tools have multiplied, and more than anything, I’ve found a community. Whether it's folks stopping by at Sugar Farms Market in Carmel Plaza or connecting with other makers online, it’s been deeply fulfilling to share this craft with others.

It hasn’t all been smooth sailing—let’s just say I’ve had my fair share of resin disasters, runaway wood grain, and "what the heck was I thinking?" moments. But every bump along the way has taught me something. Mostly patience. And the importance of leak-proof molds.

If you’re curious (or just want to see a guy my age playing with power tools), give the article a read:👉 Check it out here

Want to read more about how this all came together? Give the article a read!