By Sean Fagan
Poplar spatula. Poplar is often regarded as an inferior carving wood, I personally found it be a beautiful, carving wood (Photo: Sean Fagan).
.
Bushcraft is not just about the latest Kit
It's also about Memories...
.
A few days ago I carved my first poplar wood item - a spatula - before a warming poplar campfire, on the shores of Lough Derg, west Ireland.
I had a great time.
The next day, I was adding the finishing touches to my spatula at a different, nearby location but again - along the shores of Lough Derg.
The sun was out and my campfire of oak and hawthorn kept me warm despite the chilly breeze coming off the lake.
The shrilling calls of Great crested grebes emanated from the lake with moorhens, coots and mute swans occasionally offering their calls into the mix.
The sun hit the reeds just right - illuminating the reed beds into a vibrant band of pale yellow.
Then - a rare sea eagle flew across my eye-line. Its massive, heavy wings heaving its predatory bulk through the air.
.
If ever a moment encapsulates bushcraft for me - it was that moment.
For myself, bushcraft is mostly a vehicle to experiencing nature at its most vivid, pure & visceral.
I believe this is true for a lot of bushcrafters and lovers of the outdoors.
To leaving behind our other identities - to just be in nature, however briefly, is often deeply restorative and inspiring.
.
With bushcraft - it's often the whole experience that permeates and gladdens the heart.
Sitting in front of a campfire, while leaning against a tree and carving some wood - is just a great way to experience some simple, rich moments...
...and a great way in getting to know a new tree species.
.
The days are getting longer and 2016 is still only beginning - make this year a great year of outdoor memories.
.
.
“Perhaps the truth depends on a walk around the lake.”
Wallace Stevens
.
.
Related articles on this website:
.
*Be sure to check out my Instagram, Twitter & Facebook feeds....
Links:
Recent Comments