Last week, as I anticipated another road trip for us all together around our star, I carved this ornament.

Here’s my sketch of the design in my notebook. I cut a circle out of a thin (3/8″) basswood board, painted it simply with some acrylic paint, then transferred the drawing with graphite transfer paper and a stylus, then carved. The diameters of the circles, in inches, are on the sketch. I’d like to explore this design more at different scales, wood species, and backgrounds.

I’m ready to hang my 2026 Dickinsons Reach Calendar, having just received it in the mail. This year’s calendar is one of my favorite editions. It features the artwork of Scott Kessel, all from his time spent at Dickinsons Reach over the last 17 years. They are in various media, and they are all wonderful and inspiring.

Wishing you all a peaceful and joyful new year!