So, it gets cold in Michigan.
Because of this, I moved all my glues, batteries, etc. into the house for the winter, but am still working on projects out in the unheated garage. But last week, I decided to do a little work using my kitchen table as a makeshift workbench. We have a large dining table in the dining room, and a small four-place table in the kitchen. The small table is old and beat up, so I don't feel bad clamping pieces to it and dinging it up.
I've discovered how enjoyable it is to be able to participate in the hobby that I love while spending precious time with my family. I definitely wouldn't be able to do this while blasting sawdust into the air with powertools - instead, I'm quietly making shavings in the kitchen while my wife and kids are close at hand. I remarked to my wife that it would be sweet to have a miniature workbench that was good looking enough to pass for a table, but still had removable vises, and dog-holes and everything.
So, as soon as I finish my bench in the garage (I just have to finish the steel fabrication of the vises), I will be starting on a good looking smaller bench/table for the kitchen, with my wife's full blessing!
Here is a shot of the shavings on my kitchen floor!