Graduation Party at Budlong's

 By tradition, every year the woodworking grads and co. gather together at Sue and Jim Budlong's [faculty] Comptche off-the-grid homestead for an overnight jaunt of food, fire and merriment. We had all 80 acres to ourselves. We nibbled on homegrown pork [Louise was her name]. We basked in the full moonlight and camped together. Our collective wake-up call was Patsy Cline's Walkin' After Midnight from the porch speakers around 9am. We didn't depart until 330 in the afternoon. The only thing better than this experience is knowing that we get to come back and enjoy it again next year. Aside from the keg aspect, so much of what these school "parties" provide is a supplementary education, a glimpse into the idyllic lifestyle of these woodworkers. Budlong built his entire shop from the wood on his land for cryin' out loud. These are real people. Amazing.   

The garden and chicken coop next to the house.

Ejler, not in rare form.

Our spot

A rather blurry image of Budlong's beautiful shop.

Morning temperature, utterly perfect.

Wardrobe change.

After brunch Jim and Sue led us through their acreage.

Abandoned structure atop the second 40 acres they just purchased.

Mendocino County whimsy, just a hair away from Lord of the Rings at times.