It's all wood in my hood.

So, I decided months ago that I wanted to teach myself some woodworking skills. It is taking me a while to collect the necessary tools I need to get started, but I've already started two projects: the first is a piece for the nursery (that, to this point, doesn't exist). Baby Mama bought the top piece of an old (possibly antique) china cabinet. I cut about a third off the bottom to make it into a little bookshelf that'll fit below the window. The second is an antique armoire (sp?) that my neighbor gave me the other day. It'll require some serious love, but it's solid oak and I think it'll be really nice if I can ever finish it. I'll post pics of both soon.

I thought it would be a lot easier to start with refinishing a couple pieces before I just dove in and started building stuff. The first big project I'm planning on building is a changing table. I highly recommend first-time expectant fathers consider taking up this hobby/torture method for these reasons:

• You will learn some valuable handyman skills that will earn serious brownie points.
• There is a slim possibility that some of the projects you do turn out cheaper (or ridiculously more expensive) than buying prefabricated furniture.
• The workshop is a quiet solace when pregnancy hormones try to murder you.
• Contrary to popular belief, sawdust feels really good in your eyes (and is considered, in some countries, a natural aphrodisiac).
• You'll bank some testosterone for later when your daughter and wife take over and hijack your manliness.