Sometimes, we don’t get things perfect on our first try. We always review our projects as we create them, making adjustments on the fly. It isn’t unusual for us to see something not quite right. On those occasions, we cut off or change whatever is needed to make it right. Most often, it is a minor change that is easily remedied. When Kraay’s Family farm saw the pictures of the ‘finished’ crow chandelier, they asked us to change the colour of the crows’ beaks and feet to make them more lifelike. We happily complied, and within a few hours, I sent along pictures of the new look. Our customer was delighted.
Henry the mechanic
The new mower replacement blades arrived this morning, and, being the weekend, it was the perfect time to install them. Henry enthusiastically offered his expertise, tools and help. We used the forklift to elevate the front to make it easier to access the blades. Henry had selected a wide variety of tools to scrape the buildup of grass clippings. As always, I listened to his running commentary as we worked. He also kept a close eye on what I was doing on my side and offered tips on how to do it better. When we were done, he got the prized task of using the compressed air to blow off the remnants of the dried grass. Henry stood well back as I tested the mower, and thanks to Henry’s help, it worked perfectly.
Good Friday
It is a good Friday! Two years ago today, I woke up in an intensive care cardiac bed after receiving six-bypass open heart surgery. That day, I felt like I had been run over by a truck, but I was joyful to be alive with the surgery behind me. My heart adventure was completely unexpected, for I had received great health checkups through the years, and all my vital signs were excellent. But thankfully, a stress test and subsequent angiogram had revealed all was not well with my heart. They found nine severe blockages, and my only realistic option was open heart surgery. A few days later, I had the operation. Thankfully, my recovery was rapid over the next days, and I was soon allowed to return home to recuperate. The hard part was purposely slowing down; thankfully, my family helped me through those days.
I am reminded that each day since then has been a gift, and I take immense joy in that fact. I am grateful that I am surrounded by a loving family and a wonderful crew to assist me in creating our art. My pace is not nearly as frantic these days as in years past, for I’ve learned what we don’t finish today will still be there tomorrow.
At every opportunity, I jump on my bike for an hour-long ride, quick enough to elevate my heart rate but leisurely enough to soak in the beautiful views along the winding riverside path. This is my happy place where I can think about life and the wonderful opportunities I am afforded. I am grateful!
