This evening I went by a friend's place to measure a bracket he needs to have remade. What struck me about this visit is that I paid more attention to the building than I had in the past. I've been there a couple of times in the past, but always focused on ____ instead of the building.
His shop is actually a wood frame detached garage that was built in the 40's. I think the only thing holding it together is termite poo. The roof holds water back about as well as a waterfall (it happened to rain while I was there) which dictated the need for numerous buckets. His bench is wood, and looks like it might hold up 200 pounds if it was loaded properly. The floor has so many cracks in it that you have to watch your step to kep from tripping. Lighting is poor at best. Electrically it would have to be remodeled to serve as an execution chamber. His tooling looks like garage sale rejects, and is sparse. Overall it is in bad shape.
My buddy, however, is happy with what he has to work with, and would like a better shop, but is thankful for what he has now. As he put it, it is much better than his last place, which was a metal shed under a tree with a few hand tools. He admires my shop and salivates at having a simular place, but he still has pride in his.
In comparison, my shop is a castle. I grumble about not having enough space, headroom, equipment, etc. You know, never satisfied with where things stand. But after the trip this evening, I went out in my shop and after being at the above place, it really isn't that small, and certainly is well equiped.
It is all in perspective. Be thankful for what you have, and though it might not be just what you want, you still have a place to enjoy your hobby. Many others have less or none at all.
lugnut, watch out for the neighbors! The'll have you working on more of their stuff that you will yours :shock: