This Kitchen and Bath renovation in Joshua Tree is in a home that sits in one of the most beautiful spots in the area. The client gutted the house and started from scratch. In the kitchen, we were able to use some of the vintage etch wood out of my grandfathers house.

I love this material and was happy the client wanted to use it. We still have limited quantities of the original etch wood and will continue to use it on various projects until we run out.

It’s great to be able to recycle a material that has held up so nicely.

The cabinet faces in the master bath are oak veneer that has been painted, and the grain filled with a contrasting cream color.  I built a vanity for double sinks and a storage wall directly across from it using the same finish.  Will post more photos soon.

For the last few years I’ve been waiting for the right model B engine for my roadster pickup to come along. The few I’ve gotten close to have either been beyond my budget or I’ve been way to late. So last week this one came my way and I bought it! It was taken out of a ’29 model ‘A’ pickup that was being put back to stock specifications back in 1981 and has been in storage ever since.  The Model ‘B’ engine was an improved version of the model ‘A’.  It’s stronger and more powerful, so it was sought after by racers and hot rodders.  It first came out in 1932 and they’re getting harder to find.  It came with a ’32 gearbox that will be an improvement over my model ‘A’ gearbox.

Also last month, I finally had a chance to make a 3-piece hood for my roadster. It’s made of 18 gauge steel.  I formed the top over a piece of 4’’ pipe that was fastened to a sawhorse. I modified a pair of vice grips to form the bead along the back of the hood. A friend in Riverside punched the louvers for me.

I should also say RIP to the great George Shearing whom we lost last month. I listen to his early trio and quintet on an almost daily basis.