Friday, June 24, 2011

A Practical Backyard Project--Bench or Table?


My dad made a wonderful backyard bench/picnic table for us. It's kind of like a transformer toy because we can either use it as a bench, or flip the back part up and use it as a table. At each end in the back is a chain, a hole and a piece that fits into the hole to hold it in whichever position you want.

Unfortunately, part of the wood broke off of the second board on the back and it split. It's still usable, but I feel bad every time is see it broke so finally asked our handyman from Handyman Connection if he could fix it.

He was very positive that he could easily fix this saying, "Oh sure, if I can build houses, I certainly can fix a bench." He went on to admire it and said that he would like a picture of it so he could make one for himself and use it when he goes camping. I was very pleased to hear how much he like my dad's work and it made me feel proud once again to have such a wonderful dad. I'm so glad that it will be able to be restored.

To find out more about my book and why I wrote it, read the Foreword here Available as e-book (http://outskirtspress.com/myfunnydadharry/).

Friday, June 17, 2011

Show Dad Some Appreciation – Especially On Father’s Day

Through the years, I always got something for my dad for Father’s Day.  He didn’t like eating out, usually didn’t want to go anywhere but he loved his cats and he loved to work in his workshop so anything I got for his cats was much appreciated.  One year I gave him a gift card for Loew’s, one place he did enjoy going.  I usually tried to find him a nice shirt or jacket or new pants too since he rarely bought any clothes for himself. 
 
I miss my dad so much and think of him every day, but more so around Father’s Day.  It was always a challenge to find something special for him but one I wish I still had.  I was surprised to find the stack of Father’s Day cards and birthday cards I gave him over the years when I cleaned out his house after he died.  I know he was a pack rat, but I didn’t think men thought much about cards.  In his case, apparently he did. 
 
What did you get your dad for Father’s Day?  Hopefully you encourage your children to get something for your husband, at least a card.  Dads have a big responsibility and get little appreciation but Father’s Day is certainly a good time to do something special for him. 
 
This is my 200th post for this blog and I am pretty much out of memories about my dad to write about.  I encourage my newer followers to check out the archived posts.    
 
I am donating 50 cents per comment this month to Joni and Friends. To find out more about my book and why I wrote it, read the Foreword here Available as e-book (http://outskirtspress.com/myfunnydadharry/).

"My Funny Dad, Harry" Book Giveaway

Congratulations to all the winners of the giveaway for "My Funny Dad, Harry" at Red Pine Mountain. I am so happy that four of my regular commenters won! Read what Tim thought of it at Everyday Living.