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I've used Watco walnut in the past and I never had it approximate anything close to the color of walnut. I don't have any stain recommendations other than I personally think it's more trouble than it's worth and that ash and walnut make an attractive contrast. Alan

I think we all have hazy memories when it comes to weather. About 15 years ago I kept a journal for a few years and I often wrote about the weather. Because I was taking the time to think about it and write it down I had a pretty good memory of what the previous few seasons had been like and I...

I have no idea. I grew up in the 80's and 90's and of course what I remember is the extremely cold weather I suffered in childhood. I'm sure there were mild winters too but they didn't stick in my head. We've had some very mild winters lately but I can also remember some extremely hard ones in...

It's hard to argue with it in the midwest! Alan

Can you give us some history on your father and the company? When did he start it? Did he only make paddles? How long did he own it? Why did he sell it? Did he sell it to Stewart Coffin or someone else? Alan

I'm happy to hear about the happy Hok experiences. I got the 125cm length with universal bindings. They were out of wax when I ordered. Have you found it to make a big difference? If so in what conditions? I was planning to use mine with mukluks in cold weather so it's good to hear about...

I've wanted to try Hok skis for years and this year I finally bought a pair. No 'real' skiing for me. I hope they'll be more of a snowshoe substitute. So far we haven't had more than a dusting of snow and it really wouldn't bother me if I never had a chance to try them this season. I like...

Looks like there are vehicle tracks onto the lake. Was there really open water for paddling?

I'm guessing you'll need to go there or call for gear prices. Alan

I do the same. It's a big timesaver for those of us who don't worry about perfect strip fitment. Boat looks great! I haven't forgotten about sending you those plans. Actually, that's a lie. I've forgotten (and then remembered) 173 times. Unfortunately, every time I've remembered, I haven't...

Will Steger has done some large trips like this in Canada. He should pretty much have the kinks worked out of the system by now. https://www.twincities.com/2018/03/31/will-steger-tackling-1000-mile-solo-trek-across-canadian-barrens/ Alan

Welcome to Iowa, Glenn. Here it's big news when the wind stops blowing (like it has for the past week). Alan

This popped up on my Facebook memories from a few years ago when I was reading Ulysses:

I don't have any experience with sailing canoes but here is someone that does: Alan

Sadie was with me when I capsized in a partially frozen lake. Other than being generally unhappy about the situation she didn't seem to be affected. She swam to me when I called and I put her into the partially filled canoe. She wasn't a fan of the idea and pushed off the gunwales and thwart to...

It looks like you had a nice area to work in. Lots of room. Building without staples is pretty ambitious for a first time build but it looks like you did good work. The bottom looks very round. How did the stability feel? Alan

That looks great! Are you happy with how it performed? What does the writing on the bow say? Thanks for the update. Alan

A local farm store was having an after Christmas sale so I picked up a pair of insulated canvas coveralls. I tried them out on our walk tonight. It was about 10 degrees (-12c) with a steady breeze gusting to around 10mph. I was directly exposed to the wind during the walk. I wore them over my...

Sourdough is more than just a recipe; it’s an understanding. So before we dive in, let’s define. Simply put: a sourdough starter is a live fermented culture of fresh flour and water. With adequate time, temperature and care, the culture will begin to ferment and cultivate the natural yeasts...