MY HANDYMAN

Life has many changes in it. Today I haven't left the house once. Of course, it's only 2:45p.m. - but it seems strange to me. I've always been one to start out early and run until late, but today's different. Why?

For one thing, I've come to the place where I really enjoy my home. I guess that's not too uncommon for women my age and stage. But it's crept up on me. I'm not thinking of things I want to change - or redecorate - or replace or redo.

I've been fortunate in the fact that my husband is a 'handyman'. I've always just had to mention a change, and he's been quick to get it designed, shopped for, worked on and finally done. That includes everything from replacing the water closet (toilet) works to building a second floor on our house in Levittown, N.Y.

And he is always so cheerful about it. He's not a griper about anything except the corruption in politics and the disgust he has for movies today. He's a gentle man, a kind man, with a sweet disposition and lovable dry humor.

I see him in our sons but also in our grandsons. He's left them great footsteps in which to follow. I've told him for many years that he is also an artist. He does very unusual things with this talent. His mind is always at work. He has built some very unique artifacts.

How many houses have the Sisteen Chapel on their living room ceilings? Or Flagpole Sculptures made of golf balls in the backyard for both the American and Arizonan flags? How many women can boast of a perfectly designed Studio that meets all hobby needs; computer and desk paraphenalia; storage shelves for 45 boxes; bookcases for dozens of bibles, books and study materials; and a shelf for my guinea pigs cage; and a huge table for hobbying on? Well, thanks to his constant loving care and affection, I can.

I hear some women 'put down' their husbands, and I thank God that I never have a good reason for doing it. I'm not perfect and I'm sure I've said some things that might be considered unkind, but it isn't because he deserves it.

He's not perfect either - but his imperfections just make him more lovable. For instance, his short term memory is really going. And I find that encouraging because mine is, too. We laugh at the things that are happening to us as we grow older, and thank God that we don't have to keep up with the 'youngsters'. We don't know how a man can marry a second wife half his age. She'd never understand what aging puts one through. And how do they adjust to the music???

While I've been writing this I've had an idea for one more thing that I'd like to do - but I think I'll wait for another week or two before I mention it to my Honey because he needs a little down time - just for himself.