Hi friends,
Well, I've been initiated

to the New Bedford, Massachusetts ex-biker

, dragon's breath, hot treat relish and sausage eating, blade smithing, knife making crowd. Actually, it wasn't the full initiation, as I believe you need to have more than just 6 people razzing you to be full member of the club

. That, I believe comes in two weeks when about two dozen guys are going to get together for a hammer in. I'm not sure I'll be able to stand having that much fun, but I'm going to do my best!
Now that I've eaten heat treat sauce

(not the actual relish, mind you), gobbled up some smoked sausage (Larry, sorry I ate one of yours :barf

, Done some forging with Big Bertha the hydraulic press (way cool) and even drank a beer (I don't drink)

. I can honestly say...life's a trip and then you die (bet you didn't expect that). Thankfully, when I go to meet my maker, if I don't get in the pearly gates, I won't be afraid to dance with the devil in Hades. Because, I've been to Indian George's, and am now somewhat versed at taking the heat.
Just got back into my folks (in NH) tonight with all the parts to set up a forced-air propane forge AND a gallon of Parks 50, yey

! Stopped at Dan Pierson's on the way home and picked up a small drill press. Thanks Dan

. Also stopped in Connecticut and picked up a 5.5" post vise I bought off of eBay while I was still in Hawaii (still have two to go get in Vermont). I ordered a grinder from Norm Coote, which is still in the box. Looks like I should have fun practicing a bit more at trying to figure out how to make a few knives.
George, Larry, Cuck, John, Paul, Nathan...nice to meet you guys! See you in a couple of weeks.
Aloha, Phil
PS - The hands gesturing in the photo (I don't think the camera will ever work again) are 'simulating' the funky Hawaiian salutation (a shaka) meaning, hang loose (kinda like Hakuna Matata! or no worries mate)

.