This was taken about a year before he died. The last picture I have of us together.
My Dad was a fourth generation carpenter, and he could build anything from wood. He made his living most of his life from building things---houses, travel trailers and campers, kitchen cabinets, furniture, home accessories, and heirloom doll furniture. He was a craftsman in the very best sense of the word. He enjoyed creating something from nothing or transforming an ugly-duckling of a kitchen into a beautiful swan. It was through his encouragement that I began my creative business over 20 years ago. He has passed his talents on to my brother, Mark, who carries on the family trade.Sadly, Dad is no longer with us. He died one year ago today--hence this departure from my usual schedule. I wanted to share a few of the things he made. I apologize for the pictures, but I hope you can see the beauty of his craftsmanship despite the poor photography.
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These two are of the armoire he built for me. My favorite piece of furniture in my house.
This Barrister Bookcase is in my family room.
Some of the model vintage cars he built. Not from kits, but from his own patterns.
A very bad photo of my parents' craft show display, many years ago.
On my parents' 50th Wedding Anniversary. And this isn't even all of us!
Five children, two sons-in-law, one daughter in law
Six grandchildren, one (now two and soon to be three) spouses
Two step-grandchildren
Six great-grandchildren
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Dear Dad--There isn't a day that passes that I don't think of you. I miss you so much, and I carry you with me in my heart each and every day. I am so blessed to have had such a wonderful, caring father who encouraged me in all of my dreams.
With much love,
Your "favorite youngest daughter"
LizaJane
If you really need an etsy fix, follow this link to my favorite shops folder. There is lots to look at there. I will be back next Friday with my usual Friday Favorite. <3
Oh Lisa, this is such a touching and beautiful tribute to your Dad. I'm so sorry for your loss, and thank you for sharing your memories of him. His woodwork is beautiful. Each piece will live on, as will all of your special memories of him and all whose lives he touched.
ReplyDeleteMy Dad passed away in 2003, and there is not a day that goes by that I don't think of him. I miss him so much.
Thank you for your kind words. I do have a house full of treasures he made and a lifetime of memories. He lives on in the hearts of many.
DeleteWell, I can certainly see where you got all your creative abilities. My dad also made things out of wood and, now that he is also gone, I treasure them more than ever. I think it is so nice to have these things to pass on to future generations (and hope that they will appreciate them as well!). This was such a nice tribute to your dad!
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing such nice comments! I am so glad to have all the things I do my dad made--several furniture pieces and accessories for my home. I've always thought they were special, but now I cherish them even more, as I know you do too.
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