Like I said from the very beginning, these bow trades are not about the bows we receive but the effort we put into the bow we build for our recipient. During the process I found out that the guy that was building a bow for me had some serious family health problems so I told him to not worry about building the bow but take care of his family, the most important think there is. I don't really need another bow so I didn't feel like I was stiffed. I do cherish every bow I have ever received from anyone, bar none. I didn't feel like I had been left out when I found out I wasn't going to receive bow. I get my energy and enthuiasm from watching all the great bows that are built in these trades and especially watching the newbies push the envelope to make the best bow they can so they feel good about giving it away to someone else. These bow trades are great teaching instruments and every bow trade that I have been a part of have been total successes, the participants make sure of that.
Nearing the end of this trade when we realized that there were a few folks that weren't recieving a bow I had 6 or 8 different guys PM me to say they would be pleased to build another bow so everyone felt included. These acts of kindness and generosity makes our bow trades worthwhile and help bring our community(family) closer together.
Thank you again Paul for this great little bow. I could tell it was made just for me or at least you put a lot of thought into the bow you sent me. She's a perfect fit! I'm sure I will get lots of years of service with this bow and I'll enjoy every arrow I put through her.
It won't be long before we start a new bow trade. Generally we begin in January or February. Now is the time to start thinking about it and getting ourselves ready for the next trade. Line up a few staves, study designs to help you decide what you want to build, not only for your recipient but to help you improve your own bow building. Use the months before the trade starts to hone your bow building skills so you will feel the pride of giving your best effort you can to your recipient. This is what our bow trades are all about!
I want to also thank everyone that participated in the 2012 PA Bow Trade...even the guys that sherked their duty in the trade. If it weren't for them the generous attitudes of our community would not have shined as brightly as it has.
