My wife asked for a book shelf for the kids, but something that would let them see the entire book cover instead of just the binding, like a magazine rack in the store....

I love woodworking - the mental challenge of a design, the smell of freshly cut wood, the gorgeous finish of a dark rich stain. It's a great feeling to turn a pile of lumber into a finished product, to end of up with something you can actually touch and feel and are proud to show off to friends....

Not long ago, someone asked me what it's like programming, to not have a physical product at the end of the day. It only becomes "real" for most people when there's something to show off, and even then it's not something you can hold. That's why I like pursuing other hobbies that engage the senses....