This guy is my hero. I call him my son-in-law, which he was at one time. He is Eva's daddy, a winemaker, and an all-around wonderful human being. He helps me out at the drop of a hat and is the person I call at midnight when I need a helping hand. He is always good-natured and willing to do whatever is needed to make things better. Luckily he lives a couple of blocks away…
He's been a great help to my husband in the past couple of months and has come over to do various odd jobs we can't handle ourselves. In the photo above, he is changing out the flood lights on my kitchen ceiling. He has also recently assembled a wheelchair, attached a new showerhead, and removed a bathroom door. His dad used to own a hardware store, and there is pretty much no handyman-type task he can't tackle.
There is a Hawaiian word, "Ohana", which means family, but includes a larger group of people who are extremely close to you but not related by blood. The people in this extended family group are characterized by togetherness, support, and mutual helpfulness. This is such a great concept.
At any rate, I am so grateful that my extended family includes Ryan!
17 Responses
How lovely for you all. I like the Ohana meaning.
Every widow I know needs a person like this.
You are so fortunate! I could use someone like this!! We’re just getting older and some risks are not worth taking anymore.
Ryan is no longer married to your daughter but still remains a part of your family. That in itself says so much about what a great family you have and what a wonderful person Ryan is!
Ryan is an angel in your life! I’m so happy you have him!
We could all use a Ryan! You are so blessed to have him as part of your family. I remember “Ohana” from the Lilo and Stitch movie when our children were young. It has a very special meaning for me.❤️
Good morning, Nicole-
I, too, have a son-in-law just like Ryan. He can see problems coming even if they have not arrived yet….like a safety hazard easily fixed, or not, climbing a ladder to replace a smoke detector when the ceiling is cathedral-style, etc., and we are in a 55+ community. What was the builder thinking?? Anyway, his talents vary widely….he can even figure out complex quilting patterns….his dad was a math teacher, so he even got the ‘angles’ gene…whatever. My dear hubby got over long ago being embarrassed by needing a little (lots of) help. Thank Goodness!
I (we) are so happy that he is available for you, especially since your hubby needs a little extra help. Happy Holidays to you and yours!
I am so glad you have Ryan. Everyone should have a person like that. We lucked out with wonderful neighbors.
We should all be so fortunate to have a Ryan in our lives…I am glad you have his help. It sure speaks volumes for the kind of person he is…we all need a bit of help sometimes!
I am so glad you have your hero. He is a hero to me also because he is so kind to you and your husband. He makes my heart glad to know there are such kind people in this world.
Yes, you are lucky to have Ryan! Our family is a mix of exes and steps and we all love one another regardless of the “label”! My hubby is also a jack-of-all-trades and only slowing down a little so far. There are others willing to help, but none have his knowledge. But that’s alright; there will be handymen/women for hire if the time comes!
What a kind person Ryan is. And, it’s extra special that he’s Eva’s father. I’m happy that you & Dennis don’t hesitate to ask for his help when you need it. We have Ohana in our lives & wouldn’t have it any other way. Thank you for posting a really heartwarming story today.💕
So glad you have Ryan close by to help you! Your Ohana is special and we are all so appreciative of the help you have received.
What a wonderful human!
What a great story, and a testament to the kind of people you are. Love it. 💕. My son (now my daughter), and the mother of my only grandchild split when V was just a toddler. He goes back & forth between his parents’ homes every few days. They work together as parents, and everyone, including extended family, is on great terms. I babysit for V’s mom on occasion when she needs help, and we all attend piano recitals together. It’s the only way to be!
Taking care of all the different home maintenance chores can be so challenging and frustrating. It’s so nice that you have a gem like Ryan close by to lend a hand when needed. Take care. 🎄
I can’t imagine all Ryan has to juggle owning a winery so kudos to him. I’m sure you and Dennis are like 2nd parents. plus, there’s Eva. you’ve helped him and Sara so much. I’m sure he’s glad to be able to help.
sending lots of love your way….