Ever since my dad retired, mom has been calling me every day.
She says he is driving her up the wall.
Dad was always away from home when he was working. While he always looked forward to the day he’d hung his boots. I guess he never knew how much free time he’d have on his hands. Things got so bad between them that I had to go home for an intervention. I think the argument started when dad tried advising mom about something and she didn’t like that. We got to speak and saw it was best dad find something else to do. After so many years working as a HVAC professional, I knew dad missed getting his hands dirty. He has a garage full of old HVAC systems that he’s always wanted to fix but he never had the time. We went to explore this area and I subtly suggested he begin his repair work and give away the units. There are many folks who can use a good working HVAC system since a new one is too expensive. Dad loved the idea because he’d have something to do and also help the community. He dove straight into fixing the HVAC systems and even spoke to friends who wanted to give away their old units. The goal is to have these HVAC systems working and give them to the local shelters and other charitable organizations in the area. Dad will also be volunteering his time to fix faulty HVAC systems for people who can’t afford costly HVAC repairs. Mom called and said dad loves visiting the HVAC store and now she can breathe easier again.