We have retired in Arizona and appreciate your support over the years. Stay tuned for our new creative adventures! – Mike & Pat

At this time of the year, we’re always looking towards the future at Sunriver Metal Works!

Looking Towards The Future

It may seem like a no brainer, but it is the best time to reflect.  We try to learn from the past, but always look towards the future.  This year is no different, as we look at what we want to change going into 2019.

Reflection

If you Google “looking towards the future”, you’ll find all kinds of references, quotes, or reflective sayings.  We did just that and found some great examples.

“The secret of change is to focus all of your energy not on fighting the old, but on building the new.”  Socrates

“One of the happiest moments in life is when you find the courage to let go of what you can’t change.”

“Your mind is a powerful thing.  When you fill it with positive thoughts, your life will start to change.”

Today I close the door to the past, open the door to the future, take a deep breath, step on through and start a new chapter in my life.”

And the list goes on.  Some are sayings from well-know people, others may be thoughts from folks like you and me.  We’ve all had or read thoughts that had meaning to us or stimulated conversation.

What Worked Well

We made a point of taking vacations in 2018.  In fact, we took a lot of time off.  Some to visit family.  Some combined into work trips in our motor home.  We met new friends who have similar interests.  And, we worked.

What Didn’t Work

If something doesn’t work, we try not to repeat it.  We do try to learn from whatever didn’t work.  Our packaging and shipping techniques underwent an upgrade this year.  It costs a little more, but we’re happier with the quality of the product.  Also, we have learned how to say no, if necessary.  We don’t want people to be unhappy, and we’re getting pretty good at identifying questionable projects.

What About 2019

We’re continuing to plan for our retirement within the next couple of years.  Along that end, we are planning more trips this year.  Italy is on the list and would be Mike’s first trip outside the country.  Our motor home will also be travelling down many roads, as we plan short and longer trips.  Life is too short to not enjoy this new opportunity to see the US.

We’re getting a little more selective about projects we take on.  One of our current consignors is retiring at the end of 2018, so our custom work will take priority.  We enjoy working with people on their visions of custom metal art.  Along those lines, we plan to branch out on the more artistic side of things.

Thinking of Something Different?

So if you’re thinking of some unique kind of metal art project, just ask.  We’re always open to new ideas.  Mike’s always interested in trying something different.  But, don’t be surprised if you find that we’re out of the shop.  Patience is key.  We’ll get it done as long as you don’t have a quick turnaround time in mind.

Enjoy The New Year

So as we’re looking towards the future, we hope you are to.  Whether it’s something we can help you with or not, we hope you enjoy the new year.  We plan to!