My dad isn't one of those dads you hear about who never gave out hugs or forgot to tell us kids he loves us. He feels things deeply and expresses affection. But he's not one to GUSH about stuff - know what I mean? He's a 'T' - and he says what he means, and means what he says. Beyond that, when it comes to communicating love, he does so most abundantly by serving - working with his hands.
That said, Ed and I have felt well-loved these past 2 years. Almost every Saturday, Dad (and, most Saturdays, mom too) has sacrificed his own personal time and energy - which could be spent on their own home, or his stamp collection - to work, with Ed's help, on turning our deck into a living room addition that will serve as an extra play-area for Eva. He desires nothing in return for this gift (we have to get sneaky with gratitude! ;-), but simply serves in kindness and humility... These gifts of time and amazing skill are ones we couldn't come close to repaying (even if he would let us). So... just needed another way to say 'Thanks, Dad!' - knowing my mom will read this to him. :-)
Also, times are tough right now for just about everyone trying to make a living anywhere in the home business... My dad is THE most skilled carpenter and project man Ed and I have ever known. I'm not just biased; 40 years of experience and an eye for uncompromising quality has earned him great respect amongst his peers for being an expert at what he does. If you find yourself with any finishing, remodeling, or handyman type projects bigger than what you can handle, as tax returns approach the horizon, I know you'd be blessed by giving him a call... (651) 248-3443. Jeff - at Borne Remodeling.
Love you, Dad!
There is general consensus amongst those who know him that Ed is unusually smart. He has one of those brains where stuff gets sucked in and never falls out. He's humble about it though, you know? Insists that everyone's smart in their own way, blah, blah, blah...
