The Blog: What Happens In the Community of Ouzinkie?

In April, I took the opportunity to attend a traditional carving class under the instruction of master carver Perry Eaton. Beginning with a raw slab of Sitka spruce, I learned the full process of mask carving, from a rectangular block of wood to well-formed art. The title, Matriarch, refers to my maternal grandmother.

All of life, in one way or another, is about solving problems and doing so in a way that creates lasting quality. Every challenge presents a choice. Apply a temporary fix that will resurface later, or invest the time and effort into a solution that brings permanent improvement.

The Christmas season can be magical, but it can also become overwhelming with endless obligations and expectations. Here are five strategies to help you create a truly wonderful holiday experience this year. 1. Start a Meaningful Tradition Whether it’s baking cookies on a specific evening, watching a favorite movie together, or volunteering at a local charity, having a tradition gives you something special to look forward to each year. The best traditions aren’t elaborate, th