Well, finally after a few weeks of absence trying to catch up on accumulated tasks left behind due to my trip north to New Brunswick, Canada, where I spent a few intense days of what I like to call the North American Scythers Summit (NASS, not to be confused with the space agency), I would like to say, first, thanks to the Vido family for hosting graciously, openly and generously a group of scythe enthusiasts from around the world with different points of view, needs, and backgrounds. All, however, shared a common interest: promote and use the scythe in the 21st century. I never saw before so many kinds of blades, from different makers, countries, styles to fit different needs of cutting etc… I never saw so many handle grips from natural twisted branches (or probably roots) and for sure, It is not easy to find some one (not only in the scythe world) with such a wide knowledge willing to share it with others. Peter does. And we had a happy bonus: the friendliest baby goat to accompany all activities. My long experience with the scythes was always based on work, except for the times that I participated in mowing competitions (that was even harder work). But this time, it was primarily ( but not limited to) about learning how to make snaths out of raw wood or branches of trees, regardless of variety. It was gratifying to see that all other participants were young people with the idea of promoting the use of the scythe in their future.

Previous photos were taken by Ashley Vido ( scythe and axe expert) and Jesse. Jesee is a young scythe enthusiast, promoter and as you can see a great photographer too.

Now slowly going back to reality, I leave you with the photo of this turtle that I took in George Washington and Jefferson National Forest Park last weekend. He or she was crossing the road and I moved him or her before his or her life was cut short. Please do the same…