Well, this week makes one year since my former international corporate employer helped me decide to become a full-time gunsmith so I figured I'd better make a report to my shareholders. (you folks)

First, the year has flown by. Maybe it's just due to getting older, or maybe global warming, whatever it is I've never had a job before that kept me so busy but I hardly ever realized I was working.

Every day is filled with new challenges and interesting problems to solve. I've made enough money but ended up reinvesting it all back into the business--something I fully expected to do, so sorry guys, no cash dividends this year. I've been blessed with outstanding customers who are easy to deal with, patient and pay their bills. Who could ask for more?

I've benefited from a camaraderie I haven't experienced since I wore our Nation's uniform. There are many people I want to thank but particularly I want to thank my good friend and mentor, Roy Bedeaux, Los Ranchos, NM, for without his encouragement I wouldn't have even attempted this. If you don't know of him it's probably because he's a former Marine and not very computer literate, but he is an outstanding rifle builder. I also want to thank our very own Westpac who's always there to assist me and is by-far the most knowledgeable gunsmith I know; thanks, Guy! There are many others I thank.

In conclusion, I want to thank Saeed for providing us with this venue for communication. The information sharing that takes place here, with folks from around the world, is a gift that I treasure and can't possibly repay. Thank you Saeed.

It's been a great year, and I look forward to many more. This concludes my report; thank you all!

congrats john - yup there's more to life than being in a job you don't like. we all spend to much time working to be doing something we don't want to be doing. by the way when do the dividend checks come?

I'm happy for you John and the most important thing is that you are enjoying what you are doing.
Butch

quote:

Every day is filled with new challenges and interesting problems to solve. I've made enough money but ended up reinvesting it all back into the business--something I fully expected to do, so sorry guys, no cash dividends this year. I've been blessed with outstanding customers who are easy to deal with, patient and pay their bills. Who could ask for more?

Great to hear, glad for ya... and any chance i get to thank a veterian... i do so-(THANKS)!

quote:

Originally posted by Toomany Tools:
I've made enough money

What??????

quote:

Originally posted by Toomany Tools:
a former Marine and not very computer literate,

It runs in the family.

Congratulations! First years always tend to go by fast but are usually the worse. It doesn't get much better I'm afraid. May you continue to grow and have good luck!

John,

Congratulations on a successful first year, satisfied customers, and confirmation on a genuine "calling."

There can NEVER be enough talented and caring folks such as yourself. I genuinely envy your skills!

ya got more business coming......cause ya earn it!

Congratulations!

While not a "Pro-fessional" gunsmith, I have worked for others and been self employed. And of the two I vastly prefer myself as a boss.

It takes a different mindset and attitude, but I would have to get awful hungry before I would go back to punching a clock for someone else.

Congrats again!

Congratulations, John! Making it past the first year is the toughest!

I know what you mean about reinvesting. Doing the same thing at our place. Wish you every success and prosperity.

Rusty Knight
CATMACHINC.COM

Congratulations again! Very well done. With your talent I see a very bright future ahead.

Congratulations, John. All the best!

Terry

John,

Roy builds large bores for me and I cannot say good enough about him. he is building for me now and since u are n his neck of the woods, send me a line as there are not enough good smiths. thanks

steve

Congratulations on one year and many,many more! Scot

If you are doing something you love, you are miles ahead of most people. Never look back!

Congratulations, and how about a few photos to show off a little. I enjoy seeing quality work. I think fine gunsmithing is an art equal to any other art form. DW

Congrats on your first year!

One of my favorite sayings is "If you want to never have to work a day in your life, find something you love to do"

Sounds like you found yours, congratulations again as not that many people do!