I have mentioned before that TJ and I quit exchanging Christmas presents years ago but when we used to get each other presents I always asked for fun me stuff. You know, stuff like jewelry, horse tack and nice frilly things from Victoria's Secret. TJ either wanted motorcycle stuff, horse tack or tools. He liked me buying him tools because I only bought good quality stuff.
Well, my list to Santa for this year is quite a bit different than in the past. As most of you know, I moved to a new home this past March. I bought it as a repo and got a smokin' deal on it, but...........it of course needed lots of work. At the time I thought this was a good thing. I am pretty handy for a girl and with so much to do on the house it would keep me busy and hopefully my mind off of losing TJ. It succeeded on doing both of those things, but at the same time, I have found it at times to be overwhelming and even have had thoughts that just maybe I bit off more than I could chew. When I think I am in over my head I usually just call a friend or two for help and everything turns out OK.
So, because of my new home here is my list for Santa this year:
- Air Compressor - I have no idea why TJ never had one!
- Floor Jack - these are handy for a multitude of tasks
- Table Saw - TJ could build anything with his Skil Saw.....I can't!
- Pneumatic Tools - to go along with the air compressor
- Wheel Barrow - actually I could use 2 of these: 1 for hay and 1 for wood
- Another Cord of Fuitwood - thanks to my fireplace I have yet to turn on my heater this year
- Chain Saw - I bought TJ a Stihl years ago but he always had trouble with starting it (lemon!) which translates to I can't start the darn thing at all!
- Gas Powered Leaf Blower - a 4 stroke please; I have trouble with 2 stroke motors, i.e. above referenced chain saw
- A small tractor with a gannon & bucket - I have lots of yard work here
Even without these things my house is coming along good....slowly but good, and it is nice to step back once in a while and say to myself....."Thanks Dad and TJ for all you taught me, I could not have done any of this without the two of you having been in my life! I love and miss you both."
Oh, and Santa.....a Home Depot gift card might be easier and is just as good!
Believe in yourself and all that you are. Know that there is something inside you that is greater than any obstacle. ~ Christian D. Larson
