Charlie's plan for family management seems to be working. He constantly encourages the boys and the children to keep busy.  "Read a book, play a game, take a walk... do anything but do something and whatever you decide to do, do it right, or don't do it!

Charlie realizes that he's spending too much idle time himself and while he is an avid reader and loves to take long walks, he needs to find something other than work and family, a hobby perhaps.  John Horn enjoys photography, has a fine camera and a darkroom where he develops film and prints photographs.

Charlie thinks about his Dad and his woodworking and decides that it only makes sense to follow in his steps. The coal furnace in the basement was recently converted to gas and there is no longer a need for the coal bin which is the perfect size for a shop.  He buys a table saw, drill press, jig saw and a lathe along with a number of hand tools.  He remembers turning bowls on Dad's lathe and how exciting and relaxing he found designing and creating something with his own hands.  The total price for the Delta equipment is less the $200.