Yes, in many personal and heartfelt ways for all of us involved - but also in some tangible ways. The spirit of giving is like a snowball growing to become the body of a huge snowman.
One of our recognised great selfbow/woodbow bowyers, Eric Krewson, offered up on the auction a set of his (own design) tillering, etc. tools, in a "Gizmo" and a Pin Knot Working Tool. Later he offered up a second set. I had seen the Gizmo explained previously, before I even made my first bow. I thought the tool was a great idea and then I thought the offer was a fantastic idea for a donation on the auction. I was quick to bid (a couple of times) but got "out distanced" early on, and said as much on the thread, regretably dropping out of the running. Another sharp tool bargin hunter, Shawn (West) bid on the first set (Walnut), and then liked the second (Cherry) one offered moor, so bid on it. He quickly outran the bidders on the second set, assuming all the while he would be outbid on the first set. As luck (and perhaps the ending "crash"
) would have it, nobody outbid Shawn on the first set. Therefor Shawn was the proud winner of both sets of Mr. Krewson's great tools. The fickle finger of fate!
The bottom line of this story is, Shawn told Eric to please get my address and send me the second set of tools. I am so honored and humbled by his generous offer, I just wanted to share it with all of you other members. Bless you Shawn and Eric for your support of the auction, and this generous and most welcome gift. I am so blessed.
(I hope I do not embaras Shawn, or anyone, by this posting, for that certainly is not my intention.)