When God Made Blacksmiths

A few days ago, I was shooting some images out in the forge, when I glanced down at the work cart next to me. I instantly fell in love with what I found... Simplistic beauty! Newly formed wrought iron pinecones graced the old weatherbeaten cart, ready to bring life to a magnificent hand forged iron Pine Wall Sconce. The trusty hammer lays nearby, ready for one of the blacksmiths to take it in hand and work his wonder.

This photo triggers a fond recollection. A few years back, one of the guys was nice enough to let me try to shape a pinecone. Being the new kid in town, I jumped at the chance to test my blacksmithing skills and prove that I was more than just an office girl. It sure looked easy enough! Or so I thought... let me tell you, making a pine cone is no easy job! After huffing and puffing to try and create a pinecone like nobody ever made, I got my wish. That was the ugliest looking piece of metal I have ever laid eyes on! Far from the beautiful piece of art that I had hoped it would be. After a good laugh, my patient teacher assured me that his first pinecone was much worse than mine. I didn't believe him, but I knew he was just trying to make me feel better. As I walked back to my office with a smile on my face, I couldn't help but be thankful that God made blacksmiths. :) I love my job and I love these people!