“Give a man a pen, and he’ll write for a day. Teach a man to make his own pen, and he’ll write at least until the ink runs out.” – Freddy James

Maybe it’s the writer in me saying this, but I’ve always loved it whenever anyone’s given me a pen as a gift. Generally speaking, I think a fair percentage of people really do appreciate a good looking writing instrument. But today I learned something new.

Today I learned that making your own pen out of a small chunk of black walnut with the direct supervision and teachings of a local wood-turning expert, is absolutely priceless. I’d like to thank the #NPCA for introducing me to Mr. Marv Ens who makes the Comfort Maple Pens for the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation. Spending one afternoon with Marv was truly an educational experience. And fun

Plus, it’s always great whenever I get to talk about wood with someone who appreciates it as much as I do.

I’ll tell you this.. I just finished using my new pen to jot down a few ideas (gotta break it in, ya know) and I’m being totally truthful right now when I say that I’ve never had a pen write as smoothly as this one. The internal components are noticeably top-notch. And again, at the risk of sounding biased, it looks and feels even better. I think I’m in love.

Thank you Marv and Trudy for your time and friendship today. It was great getting to know you. And thanks again for the beer(s). The one from Sawdust City Brewing Co. is definitely a strong one, but it’s delicious. Reminds me of a really thick Russian Imperial stout or something.

Thanks again.  Cheers!

Marv: “Have you ever had a Long Dark Voyage to Uranus?”

Me: “Uhhhhhh…….”