I steal into the shop to watch him work,

That rapt attention to tiny details,

Deft digits toiling to task tirelessly,

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 as 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.