Yen’s Wishings

Cut out the design traced on basswood

Yen Chin, Hawaii Island Project Manager

I wish that we had a secure place in which to hold Ken Means’ carving workshop in February 2013.  Ken is our Master Carver.  This past July I learned to carve from him at the annual three-week workshop he convenes near his home in rural Oregon.  The guy has a wealth of knowledge to share, and, in just four months, he’s coming to the Big Island to teach a two-week session.  How exciting.

But I wish that we had a secure place in which to hold that workshop.  I cast a hungry eye at the former McDonald’s in Hilo.  And I cast an introductory letter to the new owners.  I only have the mailing address they gave the County, a P.O. Box on Maui.  Wish us luck.

I think that this location would serve us well because of its proximity to so many institutions that might take interest in the Carousel of Aloha: schools, churches, museums.  I looked in the windows during a recent stroll through downtown Hilo.  I saw that the building could contain as many as a dozen craving stations even though all the tables remain in place.  It also has lots of other features that would suit our needs.  I even dream of using the space to build the carving blanks for Ken’s workshop.

I dream a lot these days.  I think that one needs to invite dreams especially these days.  Working on the Carousel of Aloha helps me invite dreams.  I dream of the day when we have more people giving their time, labor, and hearts to the project.  Along with dreams I have the sure knowledge that the efforts I’ve given so far have yielded rich rewards.  So come join the party, and send us your good thoughts to help us find a space in which to hold Ken’s workshop.

Yen