[SEL] Blacksmithing (a tad OT) bringing the next generation along.

[Curt]

We've attended the SIAM show for quite a few years and this is a show 
Devin particularly enjoys in large part because of the blacksmith there. 
He has been very patient with Devin thru the years as he hung around 
poking the fire and cranking the blower. In time the fellow has let him 
do more and more and Devin seems to be picking up a strong interest in 
this part of the old iron hobby.
For those at Portland in the SEL area last fall, you may recall Devin 
picked up a forge blower. For his birthday last weekend (now a teenager) 
we picked up a forge pan from Clayton Ballard that was missing all the 
built in blower parts. This was perfect as Devin had a stand alone 
blower. I made a air entrance and elbow to attach the temporary hose to 
(shop vac hose) and Devin gave it a whirl on Sunday evening. Missy and I 
sat and had our afternoon drink (her Scotch, my beer) and enjoyed the 
entertainment Devin provided. I took a couple of pictures and they are here:
<http://www.oldengine.org/members/holland/images/BlacksmithDevin/Thumbnails.html>
The little anvil he is using is a tad small, so we may be on the lookout 
for a decent sized anvil. Believe we will also set up a little area in 
the backyard with a roof for him to 'smith in. He definitely needs to be 
further away from the house as the coal smoke will soon soot up the side 
of the house!
Missy and I are quite encouraged that he is showing interest in this 
even as the teen years are beginning. Kids need something productive 
that keeps them challenged and interested in contrast to all the other 
temptations available to them at this age.
Not many pictures to look at on the link yet, but we hope you enjoy them.
Curt & Missy Holland
Gastonia, NC