When we moved into our home over 2 years ago, my artistic eye pictured two ADIRONDACK CHAIRS in THIS spot:
So I could look at this VIEW FROM MY PORCH:
Isn't that just HEAVEN ON EARTH? It is the number one reason I wanted this house. I often add a quick thanks in my prayers for the beauty of the earth. If you think about it, we were coming down here whether it was lovely or not. We could have done all of our temporal "growth" on an ugly planet just as easily as a pretty one. I deeply appreciate the thought given to create something so beautiful that it brings tears to my eyes. HE LOVES US so very much.
Well, I didn't waste any time hinting to my husband that I would love TWO ADIRONDACK CHAIRS so that we could lounge as a carefree couple while we observe deer, squirrels, birds etc.
After 32 years of marriage, I was quite surprised when my hint wasn't enough to cause him to jump into action, but it wasn't. Several weeks went by and I decided a stronger plan of action was needed. After all, the summer would be over soon and we needed to get lounging. So, one day while we were shopping in Garden Ridge, I pointed out the display of Adirondack chairs that came in adorable colors and even had foot rests....all for just $69! Steve nodded and showed appreciation and I was sure his silence meant he was thinking, "I totally forgot to get her those chairs, I will come back for them tomorrow and surprise her".
That summer came and went. No chairs. The next summer started. I have been married long enough to know that it is best to just come out and ask, "Why didn't you ever get me some Adirondack chairs?" otherwise, undercurrents of resentment build up, and that's never good. It was then, he told me the real reason: he thought those chairs looked cheap and didn't want them in our yard. You have to understand this exchange represents a history of Steve having very expensive taste and not wanting to make due with what we can actually afford (like I will - rather than do without it altogether).
This summer, I decided to take things into my own hands. Our neighborhood had a trash day coming up and everyone was putting tree clippings, lumber, boxes, and yes, broken Adirondack chairs in the street to be taken to the dump. I got in the truck and brought home 3 ancient, fractured, paint chipped Adirondack projects that I was going to repair all by myself. Though he said nothing, I am sure Steve was now thinking those $69 chairs looked like a bargain.
Before I could get started on my project, I had a 10 day visit with my folks in Fresno, CA. Little did I know, that my sweet husband was home working feverishly the entire time I was gone to surprise me with the most beautiful pair of CUSTOM MADE Adirondack chairs and footstools I have ever seen.
He was right, these are much better than Garden Ridge's chairs, and the sentimental value is off the charts because he made them just for me, with his own hands.
.......................and THAT'S why it has lasted 32 years:)
After 32 years of marriage, I was quite surprised when my hint wasn't enough to cause him to jump into action, but it wasn't. Several weeks went by and I decided a stronger plan of action was needed. After all, the summer would be over soon and we needed to get lounging. So, one day while we were shopping in Garden Ridge, I pointed out the display of Adirondack chairs that came in adorable colors and even had foot rests....all for just $69! Steve nodded and showed appreciation and I was sure his silence meant he was thinking, "I totally forgot to get her those chairs, I will come back for them tomorrow and surprise her".
That summer came and went. No chairs. The next summer started. I have been married long enough to know that it is best to just come out and ask, "Why didn't you ever get me some Adirondack chairs?" otherwise, undercurrents of resentment build up, and that's never good. It was then, he told me the real reason: he thought those chairs looked cheap and didn't want them in our yard. You have to understand this exchange represents a history of Steve having very expensive taste and not wanting to make due with what we can actually afford (like I will - rather than do without it altogether).
This summer, I decided to take things into my own hands. Our neighborhood had a trash day coming up and everyone was putting tree clippings, lumber, boxes, and yes, broken Adirondack chairs in the street to be taken to the dump. I got in the truck and brought home 3 ancient, fractured, paint chipped Adirondack projects that I was going to repair all by myself. Though he said nothing, I am sure Steve was now thinking those $69 chairs looked like a bargain.
Before I could get started on my project, I had a 10 day visit with my folks in Fresno, CA. Little did I know, that my sweet husband was home working feverishly the entire time I was gone to surprise me with the most beautiful pair of CUSTOM MADE Adirondack chairs and footstools I have ever seen.
He was right, these are much better than Garden Ridge's chairs, and the sentimental value is off the charts because he made them just for me, with his own hands.
.......................and THAT'S why it has lasted 32 years:)
4 comments:
I love those chairs so much... and Dad really did work so hard to make them for you!
I also love the story of you digging those chairs out of the trash because you wanted them so much! You are definitely where I get that side of me... (going to the Sonic to pick up their yard clippings and hauling them on foot back to the apartment :)
That is a gorgeous view from your porch!...impressive work Steve!
I thought I posted a comment earlier today, but apparently not. It had to do with the last picture really making me want to lounge, drink lemonade and read a good book!
They are so beautiful! The wood stain is gorgeous.
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