06/07/2026
Had a wonderful time at the White Oak Rail Trail today. The best part was when I was packing up. A husband, wife, and young son came to my tent. The husband really liked my stuff and said he loved the craftsmanship. They went to my friends tent next to me and the son wanted to buy something for his momma to make her happy. The father obliged and gave him money and got her something. The boy was so happy and momma was too. When they were walking away I called the boy over and gave him one of my small walnut live edge bowls so he could give his dad something. I’m not posting this because I did something. I’m posting it because how the dad reacted. The boy said “are you sure? For free?” I said yes because I loved how he wanted to do something for his mother. What really got me was the father. He came over crying and hugged me. I lost my dad last year and sadly he wasn’t around much for me. Not all his fault. The dad’s response is why I’m posting this long message. He really felt something and that really made me happy. Love a father would only know. I cried and still am when I remember it. While I’m writing this post I am. lol. I heard the boy say to his dad “are you OK? What did you say? I didn’t hear you when you walked away.” His dad came to me with tears in his eyes and only said “Jesus was a carpenter” and hugged me. I’m not that special. I’ve sinned more than many. He put money on my table and wouldn’t let me give it back. I love turning wood. I love seeing the joy in people’s eyes when they pick up one of my pieces. I NEVER thought it would bring that much joy to someone. I NEVER thought something like today would happen. I will never forget today. I don’t know the father or family. I never gave them a card. But I hope they find this message one day. To the boy, you have an amazing father and never let him go. To the wife I say, you have a kind and loving son. To the father I thank you for being the man you are. You are selfless and shown your emotions to a stranger in great faith. I watched you teach a young man today how to cherish his mother and do great things. Thank you. Have a great evening.
