Weatherford Tool

Our first trip to IWF in Atlanta was a tremendous success. Seeing the cutting edge products and meeting new people will help us serve our customers better. Big thanks to Tim Cook for talking us into going.

The two largest transactions in our company history have taken place 10 months apart. Both have blown away anything else that happened in the previous 49 years.

We're wrapping up the biggest project our company has ever had. 25 tools, complete assembly and installation, and 2-1/2 years in the making. It's a beauty. This job was unique in many ways. Perhaps the biggest challenge was delivering tools that weigh over a ton on hardwood floors. We could not use a forklift because of the weight, so on four occasions we rented a gantry crane from a company in San Antonio and hauled it to North Austin. It has been fun...on to the next.

Tuesday morning was a unique delivery. We had to strap a compressor to a bobcat to transport it down a hill, across rough terrain, and back up the other side of the hill to get the tool where it will live. Risky ✔️ unique ✔️ fun ✔️

Our industry is changing. Whether it's good or bad change is up to you. A growing number of shops are seeking to formalize relationships that had previously been casual. Some are partnering with angel investors in order to keep up with growth, either demanded or hoped for. And in at least a few cases companies are broadening product offerings when they had traditionally been a one trick pony.

What we're seeing is more business savvy owners who are tired of treading water. The talented wood and metal workers are ready to monetize their skills. Good for them.

I've never been greeted at a shop with my own sign.

This is us right now. I hope y'all are staying cool.

All of this rain and talk of El Nino reminds me of a classic:

"El Nino" Chris Farley Face your fear of tropical storms by watching this video. Do you love America? http://www.facebook.com/ILoveAmerica.page

A Buda citizen dropped off a check for $3,000 to buy a new work shop for someone in Wimberley who lost their tools in the flood. It's remarkable to see the community come together. Neighboring cites are helping in many ways... from pets, tools, and furniture to the obvious clothing, water, and food. One thing is clear, the people of Wimberley will not fight alone.

All soldiers give some, some give all.

A turbo diesel powered bandsaw at Swift River Pecans chews through raw timber like there's nothing there.

A string of holidays has arrived. Today starts teacher appreciation week along with "May the 4th be with you" day (Star Wars nerds get it). Those are followed closely by Cinco de Mayo, Mothers Day on the 10th, and Memorial day on the 25th.