While driving through central Ohio from Cincinnati to Akron, I took the back roads....the Cruiser really LOVES the rolling hills and the freedom from the Interstate. Me, too!
I passed a beautiful farm house and noticed a clothesline in the back. Pulling into the driveway, I asked the young woman cutting the grass (with a manual rotary mower) for permission to snap a quick photo of the line. Her face seemed to say, "You crazy 21st century people.....you drive around by yourself in a bright blue car, asking to take pictures of black pants hanging out to dry." The irony of it did strike me.
Just a few miles down the road was Dick's Wicker and Buggy Makers. Oh, what a treat! I walked into his workplace seeking permission. He happily said yes, and then shared his stories of being an international wicker specialist. People from all over the world ship their badly deteriorated wicker pieces to Dick who skillfully restores them. He proudly described his web site and the way his global business has grown.
Did you know a buggy with wicker fittings can cost $10,000? And that is WITHOUT the horse! :) I think the Cruiser was feeling proud of its value ---- it seemed to wink at me as he described the cost of these motorless vehicles.
Dick was a former 18-wheeler long haul driver. After 40 years, his doctor made him retire and his hobby of wicker work fit perfectly with the needs of his Amish community. They have accepted him into their midst and he truly feels at home.
Oh, you can check him out at http://www.dickswickerandbuggy.com/
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