Today is my dad's birthday. It's one of those "big" ones that ends with a zero. If you have attended the RRR Vintage + Handmade Market in the past few years he likely marked your hand at the admission counter.
My dad, Mick, can fix anything. Cars, tractors, lawnmowers, bicycles...he can do it all. I didn't get that gene like my brother did, but I did inherit his attention to detail. As a child most of our family outings revolved around antique tractors, either attending shows or driving somewhere for parts. He is a diesel mechanic and just retired a couple years ago. Since then he spends hours in his shop, restoring tractors and cars, and too-often repairing something that goes kaput on our farm (its currently our lawnmower...again). If he's not in there he's likely hanging out with his three grandchildren who adore him.
I am thankful for what he has taught me. There are the practical things like how to wash a car and change a tire, but more importantly he has set an example of what it means to be kind, selfless, dependable and steadfast. Happy birthday, Dad. I hope your day is as special as you are.
