#1, The squeaky wheel gets the get the oil. Sounds like your friends need to decide if they really want this. Right now it sounds like they don't really. Now if you just want an excuse to make more bows that's just fine, but it sounds like you have plenty do already. I'd tell them to let you know when they are ready, and then bury the staves (out of sight, out of mind). If they get back with you, great, if they don't wait for a reasonable time and then ask if they mind if you go ahead and use the staves for another project. Tell them that they can have another stave later if they want. I've been in your place many, many times with all sorts of things. Now days I tell people to remind me, or I'll forget. That way it's on them, and I don't feel bad.
#2 Get a copy of The Wood Wright's Shop series by Roy Underhill. Check your local used book stores and libraries. They've been joining wood with hand tools since prehistoric times. I'm not saying it is easy, or won't take practice, but most of the fancy fun shop tools we use are not really necessary, and just like making a bow from scratch, it's fun to say "I did that!".
#3 You have a very important job: SCHOOL! The girl may or may not be there in the future, only way to find out is to spend time with her. SCHOOL! I can say if you don't spend the time, she probably won't be there for long. SCHOOL! Those staves will be be there for the rest of you life ready to be worked on if stored properly. Oh did I mention SCHOOL!?
Swamp