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10 SOLERA DIAMOND VALLEY | JUNE 2020 By Clare Mendez, Resident My father was a very kind and intelligent man. I learned so much from him. One lesson came in the form of a story I never forgot: Bob needed a job and asked around if there was anything that could be done until one day he received a job opportunity painting the lines on the road. His new boss gave him a paint can and a brush and showed him the road he was to divide with the line. "I want you to paint a line down the middle of this road," the boss instructed, "so the drivers will know to stay in their lane." Very well. On the first day, the man painted two miles of line. His boss was very impressed. The second day, however, he painted only one mile and on the third, less than a quarter of a mile. His boss didn't understand why his new employee who was so eager for the work was painting less and less each day so he scolded Bob and threatened to fire him. But, he did give him a chance to explain. In response, Bob said, "I'm getting further and further away from my paint can!" I like to refer to this lesson as "Where's Your Paint Can?" It's a story that has stuck with me through the years. Now, when I am outside weeding and trimming my garden, my trash can is close by. When I am in the kitchen cooking, my ingredients and measuring cups are within reach before I begin cooking. I gather the tools I need to do the job and keep them close at hand so that I won't be taking wasted steps. I asked some other residents what lessons they learned from their fathers in honor of their prestigious day and here are some of the answers: Penny Olson said her father taught her the proper way to mow a lawn. "Go against the grade and you will get a better cut. If not, you will have to do it again." "A dollar saved is a dollar earned" is the lesson Delores Blechman remembers. Her father taught her to save for a rainy day. John Shunn's step-father told him to always take care of his family, cherish his wife, work hard and be grateful for all you have. Those are wise words. Beverly Splitberger's father was a jack of all trades when it came to getting the job done. He allowed Beverly and her sister to tag along when he was working. He showed them the proper tools to use and how to use them. A lesson that would save them a lot of grief all through life for sure. I hope my article got you remembering your father in a loving and beautiful way. Happy Father's Day to all our prized fathers here at Solera. Things My Father Taught Me