June 1, 2023

This month we’re featuring a work in progress, specifically an 1840’s table that’s being converted into a kitchen island. To make this happen, feet have been cut from an early tiger maple poster bed to be added to the bottom of the table legs to increase its height by 12=1/2”; dowels have been inserted for strength. There are three large drawers in the table that have been repaired. The table frame—including the drawer facings—are cherry. The top has poplar center boards and pine outer boards. It’s being stained as per our customer’s preference, then we’ll put five coats of finish on it. Keep watch for photos of the completed island on our Facebook page, probably next week.

Looking for things to decorate your kitchen island? The 16^th annual Western Loudoun Artists Studio Tour is tomorrow through Sunday from 10 until 5. This event is FREE. See wlast.org for information such as the new artists participating and the map showing their locations. For those who want to minimize driving, try locations with multiple artists such as the Franklin Park Arts Center and the Hill High Marketplace.

This is also a great time of year to visit the local farms. Strawberries are ripe at Great Country Farms with sweet cherry picking starting tomorrow. Later this month they’re having a Father’s Day Fishing Contest; it’s catch & release, so a good time will be had by all! Many of the breweries and wineries have live music, particularly on weekends. There will be an Appalachian Trail Festival in the Gap on June 10^th at Hillsboro’s Old Stone School, which is also FREE; besides live music and artisans, they’ll have trail talks, kids’ activities, and food / beverage for purchase. Hope to see you out and about this month!

Bob & Lynne McCann