efforts to encourage Japanese builders to use more American products. Thanks in part to the work we did in that country, tariffs have been reduced, making the prices of American lumber products more competitive. I've kept in close touch with most of the tradesmen I met during my trips. They tell me they are still using some of the many techniques we taught them. In turn, I tell them how my trips made me a better and more conscientious craftsman. I found a new respect for wood and for the importance of patience on the job site — two things that are common in Japan and uncommon in America. Managing the Site As you might expect, there are plenty of differences in
