My dad’s name is Geoff, but he’s been Butch for as long as anyone can remember. His mum gave him that name when he was little and it stuck.

He’s lived a big life. A hard one in more places than most could even begin to imagine. He’s known real loss and grief - the kind that changes a person. But he’s also known so much love and experienced some successes - the kind you build with your hands, long hours and a prayer. The highs and lows have been real. Earned. Nothing glossy.

Now, in what we’re calling retirement (though we’re all giggling at that), he’s found something better than chasing the next thing. He’s found peace.

He spends his days gardening, building things, fixing what needs fixing (mainly it's things that I've broken), having a good drink and enjoying the quiet rhythms of life. Time with his wife. Time with me. Time on the tools. Time with Hugo, his (fur) grandson - though I know he could not love Hugo more even if he was human.

These days, my greatest joy is seeing my Dad get to just simply be a dad. He's my knight in shining armour and is always on hand to help. Like the time he fixed my patio before the gale force winds took the entire roof off. He builds the furniture I dream up. He researches and then caters to Hugo’s very specific sausage-dog digestive and culinary requirements, making it more gourmet than you're seeing at Rockpool. Basically, if something needs doing, he just does it.

Dad hasn’t always been handy, in fact just writing these words would make 15 year old me laugh for hours. Creating and working with his hands is something he’s come to discover later in life. Whether it’s cooking, building or tending to fledgling plants, it’s where he’s found his calm. His rhythm. His way of contributing sunshine, without needing to prove anything.

Recently, we suggested he start putting some of what he makes out into the world - not because he needs to, but just because we think other people would love to see it.

That’s what by Butch is.

Everything here is made by him, in small batches or made to order, at his pace. Some things are practical. Some are thoughtful. Some are wildly creative. Some are just because I asked him to make them. If it’s here, it’s because it’s been made with care, tested and approved - usually by Hugo.

So, if you see something you like on here, he can make it for you too.

This isn’t about scale or hustle. It’s about craft, usefulness and the quiet satisfaction of making something that helps.

In a way, it’s just Butch doing what he’s does best these days. Now he can 'dad' for everyone.

- Tash