The Hallmark Family

The ‘boss’ left Leo’s today, she gave her approval on the work that had been done. Allen, our sweet farmer friend, came over with his three kids. They are so adorable, look like they could be on a commercial. They look at us with such complete innocence that it is inspirational.

Allen’s 15 year old son was the unfortunate kid who found Leo dead and has been helping clear the house. He and his dad have done such a job with disgustingly filthy work.

Allen’s 17 year old daughter leaves for college this summer; it is a sanctioned 7th Day Adventist College in Nebraska. She wants to major in music and plays six instruments. She is fascinated by the old concertina at Leo’s farm. She really wants it, but the cost is beyond reach.

Then, today we finally met his 10 year old son, who is adorable. It was raining out and his hood was up and he was wearing knee high rubber boots. All we could see were his big eyes and smile. It immediately warmed our hearts.

We have not yet met his wife, who wanted the old cook stove. Unfortunately, it was sold today to a group of hunters who wanted it for their shanty so they could have heat from the wood and also be able to cook. I pointed out to them that McDonald’s was 15 miles away and much easier than the old cook stove, which insulted them.

Allen made an offer on all the farm machinery, which had been appraised at $10,000. His offer was $8,000 plus clearing of all out buildings. This is a huge task. There are 6 out-buildings, all stacked to the rafters with old stuff. I told him to bid $6,000; but he said he would not be able to sleep at night if he bid less than the value of the equipment. Mom saw him yesterday taking a cow to market to come up with the money for this purchase, and it saddened us. I have never met a more honest man.

Mom and I decided we want to chip in to get his daughter the concertina she loves so much. But we are very fair people, and have to figure out how to equally gift his two sons. Allen’s family could star in a Hallmark movie.