Rediscovering art, writing and raising grandchildren

Returning to rediscover my place in art was a recent process. Retired, and, outside of renovating. I made time to achieve several objectives. Carving, writing, painting, and discovery of ancient shield-making techniques, amongst other art explorations are my goals.  Having enjoyed the television series Vikings, I decided to research Viking shield making techniques, with the intent of recreating a lenticular Viking shield from scratch. Why a lenticular shield? It seemed to me, were I a Viking, I would like to carry the most effective shield.  In terms of durability, lenticular shields are less likely to split under assault from a sword, spear or axe because of their construction. It too seemed logical, arrows were less likely to penetrate, but I have yet to put this to the test at an archery session with my grandsons. The challenge for me was to stick to the most likely hand-making methods Vikings may have applied. As I progressed, it came to me working with wood to produce an object de