GILLASPIE LOVESEAT TO HONOR AMERICA. IT’S FRAGILE

Who hasn’t been accused of making last minute presents? My specialty is carving names in oak with a router.

It takes practice, at least more than a last minute panic to produce something meaningful on Christmas morning.

I’ve been the object of such accusations, and while correct, there is a bigger picture. At least there is now.

This is the canvas for a family tree drawn in wood. Each branch/board gets names added as needed. It’s a love seat built for two.

Or I’ll add names under the couple, like Gillaspie, T & M with a blank plank underneath.

If I’m going to call myself a writer, here’s proof. Instead of a page to burn or rot, the words on this 5/4 oak is stuff that lasts. By the way, 5/4 measures to an inch and a quarter thick. And it’s heavy. The support is made of steel.

Instead of nuts and bolt fasteners I used clamps. Sit down too hard, wiggle too much, and it’s all going down.

Like the fragile times we live in, our identity is equally unstable. Lasting memories start with an idea and no one wants to be remembered for dumping people on their ass. Especially when your name is on the product.

An American loveseat is made of solid material, but the glue holding it together?

The best hold-tight is the right to vote. Register and follow through. Be a strong citizen who can take the weight of responsibility, not a throw it together loser who laughs when things break down.

Shopping list: Nut. Bolts. And a wrench to tighten.

A vote is the right wrench for a loose nut sitting on a false loveseat.