Hi Gang,

I often spend my free time in the wood shop. I’m what other woodworkers refer to as a Neanderthal because I work primarily with hand tools. I like the intentionality of it. I grew up with this hobby at my dad’s elbow but took a 20-year hiatus before recently coming back.

During my break from the shop, there was an explosion of new tool companies making the latest and greatest woodworking gizmos. Of course, I love that stuff. Just look at my new smoothing plane. It’s a work of art.

But then there is H Carpenter. He’s a guy living somewhere in Asia. His saw looks like a hacksaw from the hardware store dumpster. His chisels look ancient and certainly not made using the latest technological marvels of metallurgy. His mallet looks like a sawed-off tree limb. And yet he bangs out these intricate joints like nobody’s business. (If you watch one of his videos, his smile at the end is the payoff.)

H Carpenter doesn’t care about the tools. He cares about the work. It’s easy for us to forget that sometimes.

In the News…

We’re Closing in on 17.2

The next big update is looming with some nice updates. The biggest of which will be the release of the Journal app.

Software Applications Incorporated

When the Workflow (later Shortcuts) app founders left Apple earlier this year, I could hardly wait to see what they’d make. Turns out it’s an AI product that simplifies automating your Mac. It’s early days, and there’s nothing to share, but I’m eager to see what they do.

Also, their website simulates classic Mac OS, and I love it.

Apple Card Questions

It looks like Apple and Goldman Sachs are parting ways over the Apple Card. I’ll be shocked if Apple doesn’t find a new bank to work with.

Your pal,
David

p.s. I've heard from a few readers who only want an email related to Field Guides. If that's you, click this link, and I'll stop sending you these Friday emails.

Making Light, Candles that Create Focus (Sponsor)

This Newsletter is sponsored by Making Light Candles, my favorite source for candles (both as gifts and for myself). There is something special about lighting a candle. It’s a ritual we humans have been doing for a long time, and I find it an excellent way to stay focused and in the moment.

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