I steal into the shop to watch him work,

That rapt attention to tiny details,

Deft digits toiling to task tireless,

Stance poised to deliver a driving drill.

.

Sensing my presence, feigns not to notice,

Still swells proudly as I inspect his work-

Basks in my murmured oohs and ahs,

With wrenching want I reach for the toolpouch.

.

He sometimes likes to teach while he labors-

Learned the lumber needs regular Wolmanizing:

Carefully painted coats on new wood,

Strengthen the structure; lengthen longevity.

.

At the stove I stir a pot of pasta,

His Popeye forearms circle my waist,

Five o'clock shadow nuzzles my neck,

Bestowing saucy nips on my earlobe,

Weakens my will not to burn the bread,

Before we head to the workbench again.