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Swamis Perform an iDevice-Only Travel Experiment, Episode 1

“Swami, I have a crazy idea.” That’s what one editor said to his traveling companion the day before departure. We never thought it possible: a mission through Europe the length of time it takes the moon to make a full circle around the Earth, without a computer. Actually, it had never even been considered before. Does not a diligent monk need to bring the MacBook Pro, of which he is steward, on such a long and activity-filled voyage in order to properly and dutifully keep current with his multitudinous responsibilities, not to mention manage the trip’s many complex logistics, communications and outcomes? Apparently not. After careful analysis and with a nod of support from his trustworthy travel partner, this editor decided to drop 2.56 kg from his luggage and go with just an iPhone and an iPad mini (not even a full-size iPad). It would be a brave move, for sure—pushing the limits of what is possible in today’s high-tech world of ubiquitous Internet and small-device, cloud-based digital living. So, onto the shelf went the behemoth MacBook Pro and into the satchel went the two little iDevices. And here he is being followed by a moonshadow on a bus on the way to the inaugural dinner of the World Yoga Day festivities in Lisbon, Portugal, writing the very blog post you have just finished reading. Aum Namah Sivaya, e obrigado pela leitura!

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Media Studio Entryway Woodwork

Progress is being made on the Media Studio entryway. This long beam is the main ridge of the entryway and is almost ready for installation.

The classic tool in the following photo with Kumarnathaswami using it, is an Ajax No. 8 Barn Beam Drill, made of cast iron and oak. Such drills were common in the latter part of the 19th century, used for drilling large holes for mortising in timberframe construction, such as the building of those marvelous old barns that used to adorn the countryside from sea to sea. The drill removes most of the waste in the mortise which is then squared up and cleaned out with chisels. The mortise's purpose is to accept a tenon cut on the end of a joining post. 
Kumarnathaswami purchased this drill on ebay specifically for our timber-frame work on the Media Studio entry system. Despite being 150 years old, it is in perfect shape and functions flawlessly and easily, a remarkable wonder from the days before power tools came on the scene. It is also easy to use and a lot of fun. It just makes you feel good just to look at it, drill a hole or watch someone use it!

Archives are now available through 2001. Light colored days have no posts. 1998-2001 coming later.

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