A Chip Off The Old Block

Okay, so I hate to admit this, but I don't completely grasp the English language. Yes, I enjoy writing, and I do it for a living (I know some of you are wondering what kind of living I must have if I rely on my writing skills for sustenance. For your information, I mostly rely on my wife and miracles from heaven, but I digress). However, despite writing every week, I never really understood what the saying "a chip off the old block" meant. I had always thought it was like saying, "you're the salt of the earth," or that you're just a good guy or gal. The other day I was cleaning my garage, and my neighbor came up and started talking. They asked about my kids, specifically Tanner (who I'm lucky enough to work with), and I started bragging. I went on and on about his work ethic, honesty, and dedication, and then I said, "he's a chip off the old block." My neighbor stopped and asked, "did you just compliment yourself?" I had never considered the phrase to be like saying, "the apple doesn't fall far from the tree." I was so embarrassed! I was not trying to compliment myself, but that is what I inadvertently did. We often misspeak or misunderstand each other, and hearing loss compounds the problem. If you don't have hearing loss, please be as compassionate as possible to those facing that struggle. Also, please be understanding of idiots like me; we can't help ourselves.