Christmas Day Passage

Duane Sanford Edmonds died at home December 25, 2007 after a short, courageous battle with cancer. He was born August 21, 1931, to Manford Wayne Edmonds and Lillian Vesta Carlson Edmonds. The eldest of identical twins, Duane grew up on a farm just outside Powell and attended Powell schools. Duane married Jo Ann Elizabeth Graham of Powell January 28, 1956.

(The Edmonds family wishes to express our deepest gratitude for the many wishes, thoughts and prayers sent our way during our dad’s illness.

He passed away peacefully early this Christmas morning (12:26 AM). Dad was not in pain. His grandchildren sat with him most all of Christmas Eve, rubbing his arms and feet, and scratching his head which he so enjoyed. They fed him ice chips, pipettes of water and Gatorade and told him stories of their recent accomplishments of school. Chad got to read him passages from the Bible, which he felt were important for Grandpa to hear, and he whispered, “You are saved.”

Mom took over the vigil at 11:30 PM as the grandkids readied themselves for bed and stayed by his side, reassuring him that many family members and friends were waiting for him as he passed to God’s hands.

Dad wanted so much for his own Christmas present to see and hear his grandchildren. He received his wish.

Today our family celebrated Christmas traditions as we always have, and we continue to be thankful for the many years we shared with Dad. Christmas will always hold a special place for this family.

With love and peace to you and your families this holiday season,

Jo Ann, Craig, Greg, Julie, Ana, Amanda, Chad, Meagan, Jackie, Rachel)

His father, mother, brother Dwight Manford Edmonds, and sister Janet Elaine Burnett Hale preceded Duane in death.

He is survived by his wife Jo Ann Edmonds of Powell, his brother; Alonzo John (Jack) Edmonds of Gillette (Dorothy Roper Edmonds); sons Craig Edmonds (Julie) of Puyallup, Washington, and Gregory Edmonds (Ana) of Phoenix, Arizona; grandchildren Amanda and Chad Edmonds (Craig), Megan, Jacqueline and Rachel Edmonds (Gregory); his sister in-law Myrna Dearcorn Edmonds of Crandall; and many nieces and nephews, all of whom he loved dearly.

The list of Duane's memberships, associations, contributions, accomplishments and awards is very long. Among those that were precious to him is the Future Farmer of America "Degree of American Farmer" he earned in 1951 shortly before enlisting in the service. Assigned to the United States Air Force Strategic Air Command, he proudly served his country at home and oversees during the Korean Conflict.

Duane attended Northwest College in Powell before transferring to the University of Wyoming where he earned degrees in chemistry and mathematics. Upon graduation, he moved to the Seattle, Wash., area where he raised his family and worked 30 years as an engineer for the Boeing Company. He was a member of design teams for the Space Shuttle, Lunar Rover and the Boeing Supersonic Transport. He retired in 1989 as the Director of Sales and Marketing for the Commercial Airplane Division.

Duane followed through on his dream to retire to the Edmonds' family homestead in Powell where he became a civic leader, volunteering many hours to education as a mentor, fundraiser, president and member of the Park County School District #1. He was also chairman and member of the Wyoming State Board of Education, and member of the National Association of School Board Education (NASBE). Duane served on the Board of Cooperative Education Services (BOCES) and the Northwest College Foundation. He was an active member of the Powell Rotary. Duane was the Worshipful Master of Absorakee Lodge of Masons.

Recently, Wyoming Gov. Dave Freudenthal issued a governor's proclamation honoring Duane for his service to education and Wyoming's youth.

Duane "walked the talk" of service to others. He led by example and was quick to roll up his sleeves and pitch in to solve a problem or get the job done. He loved working the concession stands and calling bingo for the American Legion. He was also their treasurer.

One of his greatest pleasures was speaking to students about the importance of education and judging local science fairs and forensics tournaments. Duane was an avid, lifelong supporter of the Boy Scouts of America and many other youth causes.

We are reminded of Duane's e-mail tagline, "Anyone can make a difference. Everyone should try!" His family, friends and community will miss him greatly.

A Celebration of Life Service for Duane will be held January 12, 2008, 2 PM at the Northwest College Nelson Auditorium, 231 W 6th St., Powell Wyoming 82435.

To honor their wishes, the family requests memorial contributions to the Absorakee Masonic Lodge #30, Powell Valley Hospice (777 Avenue H) or the Powell Schools Foundation (160 N. Evarts).

- Craig

Christmas

Craig, Amanda, Chad and Julie - 2005

"Christmas Time is Here Again" is an old Beach Boys song I really like. While this Christmas has been stressful for the family as a whole, I thought I would just say - we are trying to make it as normal as possible.

Julie, Amanda, Chad and I will be leaving tomorrow for Powell. We are driving a truckload of presents and should arrive Sunday afternoon. I'll be picking up Greg, Ana, Megan, Jackie, and Rachel at the Cody airport on Monday...

I know Mom is glad we are coming! Dad is hanging on for Christmas! We are all thankful for the time we will share together.

We are wishing you all a very Merry Christmas... and here are some pictures of our families over the years - doing what we like to do this time of year!

"With every Christmas card I write

May your days be merry and bright

And may all your Christmasses be white..."

(White Christmas)

- Craig

Christmas 1963

Christmas 2004

Duane and Jo Ann's Christmas Tree - 2003

Mom, Myrna, Rod, Eleanor, and Brandi

Tree Hunting 2003

Amanda, Chad - Christmas Tree Hunting 2005

Craig, Deep Snow 2005

Jackie, Susi, and Megan - 2003

The Love of Many

To Dad:

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Life does not accommodate you; it shatters you. Every seed destroys its container, or else there would be no fruition.
Florida Scott-Maxwell

A thankful person is thankful under all circumstances. A complaining soul complains even in paradise.
Baha'u'llah

…when one’s heart is breaking about losing a special loved one it’s pretty darn tough to manage those emotions, so I understand your mother’s concern. It’s important to remember to breathe and take the time you need to say exactly what you want in honor of your father. Courage and strength will come.

I send love,
Laurel

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Thanks for the update. We have been wondering how things were going for Duane. I'm sure he enjoyed the short trips to the atrium and to see the mountains from the window. Your folks have a beautiful home and some good views. We surprised them several years ago and stopped by for a short visit on our way to Michigan.

We will continue to keep you all in our prayers and thoughts.
- Bob & Jan

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I continue to pray for both your mother and father whom I haven’t known for very long. I was on a committee with your father a few years ago and was in a couple of meetings that he led. I admire him for his leadership skills. He is a great man – which I am sure you know. I told him about my admiration and made him cry, just a couple of weeks ago. I watched both my parents suffer through illnesses (and later die) so my prayers are also with you and your brother and your families at this time.
- Deb

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My dear hearts, it is the small pleasures that are woven into the tapestry of our life that keep it strong. You are such an amazing family. I can just see your Dad's face saying he wanted it to last. His voice rings in my ears, and love for you all lives in my heart.

This comes with pure hugs and blessings for all of you.
- Cinda

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When I visited yesterday, the washer and dryer were working full speed. It's so hard to see your Dad this way when even during the brief years I have known him, he was always been so vital and full of energy. But.....true to form, at the beginning of our visit, he asked how my husband was. (He, too, is battling cancer.) Your Mom seems to be pretty strong…

- Susan

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He is a very special man who I feel privileged to know and have worked with. I wish I was closer so that I could stop in and see him. We had some great discussions regarding the world's problems during my year in Powell. My thoughts and prayers are continually with your family. Your dad and mom are two very special people!

PS: I enjoy reading your Blog and learning more about your family.

Jerry

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I think of Duane quite often and miss visiting with him at Envita. He and your mother are both very wonderful people and I love them both dearly! Please let him and her know that I said Hi and LOVE them both.

He is a very strong man, and every day when i would ask him "How ya doin' today?" he would always reply "WELL I'VE NEVER HAD A BAD DAY AND THATS NOT GOING TO START NOW." - Raven

_________________

Duane and I went to Aerial Photo School together in Denver in 1952. After Graduation he went one way I went another. I was in Photo Mapping Squadron at West Palm Beach, Florida and was in another squadron in the same photo group.

We had a lot of good times together when we were in Denver. I remember especially the forth of July during the summer of 1952 when we hitchhiked from Denver to Powell. Duane went home and another buddy hitchhiked on to Great Falls, Mt. for the weekend.

My sister and here husband drove us back to Powell and we rode back to Denver in Duane's Plymouth.

I always wanted to see Duane again and we got in touch a couple of years ago by e-mail. I do have pictures of us from Denver if you think you would like them. He probably has the same ones.

Duane's Friend for Ever

Harvey

_________________

Please tell your dad and mom they are in our hearts and prayers and we wish you all a Merry Christmas. In spite of your family's situation, take comfort the Good Lord loves you all.

- Cork & Loretta

_________________

The report today is encouraging and uplifting. Duane, it’s wonderful you could view the surroundings of your home and the glorious countryside from a different perspective than your bed. I’ve always been so envious of that magnificent view of Heart Mountain from your front windows.

I’ve just spent time reading the blogs and responses. Since I’m not very “geeky” when it comes to such matters, this method of communication is new to me. The comments about, and written by, my classmates are of great interest to me. After I married George in June, 1952, I left Powell and came home only for brief visits. Those visits were spent primarily with family so my contact with my classmates, who had also moved on to other places, were limited. Reading about your early family days, and theirs, is most interesting. Jim related some stories which I either didn’t know about or had completely forgotten. This is wonderful history of the ‘49ers and I hope it brings a smile to your lips and a twinkle to your eye.

You are in my thoughts and prayers!

- Dolores

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Thanks for the recent report. I am also so glad you contacted the Powell Tribune about the governor's proclamation since we had not been aware of it. … I went … to see Duane personally and offer congratulations. … I also met Greg there that day and was able to tell him how much your dad has meant to all of us, as well as the schools and community. Sincerely, -

- Dave

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Our prayers are with your Dad. I know it has to be very hard on your Mother too. Again thanks for the Info.

- John

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I tried a couple of times to call, but got just the voice mail. I'll try again. Our prayers are for all of you and keep us in touch. I hesitate to tell your Dad about Earl, and perhaps that is something you can share with him.

- John

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We wish we were closer so we could come and see him more often. He has a wonderful family looking after him and that has to be such a great comfort to him. We love Duane like a father. We are SO glad that you all were able to come over to the Ranch for their Anniversary. It was a great time and we enjoyed meeting all of you.

Our prayers and thoughts are with you constantly.

Take Care and give your Dad a big hug from both of us.

God Bless,

- Scott & Becky

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We feel so badly for Duane. Can he have company, even for a short period, or best if we don't come? Merlin was a school classmate and they had good memories of FFA and other things that they had recently reminisced about. We had heard that he couldn't have company so we've stayed away, but continue to think about him and keep him in our prayer. At least tell him, "hello" from us.

Love,

- Merlin and Elaine

_________________

You are very fortunate to have such a great man in your life.

- Richard

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Both Bailey and I wish to express our deepest sympathy and condolences to the whole family on the situation with Duane. I had been in communication with Duane on a regular basis up until the time he returned to WY where I think I only heard maybe once since he returned home from Arizona. I was a close friend and a poker buddy with Duane for many years and even worked for Duane before he retired. I (we) often remember all of the wonderful times we had both here in 'Seattle' and even more the couple of times we visited in Powell. I will express later a couple of the great stories we had when Duane prepared one of his fabulous 'Pitch-fork' BBQ's when we last visited him in WY. Again, please know that we both hold you ALL in our thoughts and prayers.

- John and Bailey

Old Photos I

I've always wished I could have taken more pictures, but these were all taken with a $1.98 baby brownie and it cost money to have Lucier's develop them and print them. Now I have about 15,000 photos on my hard drive'; I never fail to be amazed at the miracles of modern technology.

Of course I was always just a tad jealous of Dwight since Elaine liked him better than me, and I had an intense crush on her all through high school only to have her go to the senior prom with Jim Garvin. I was just sort of a little nerd two years younger than she was so I didn't have a chance. Go figure!

I know Jim Elder took tons of pictures in high school since he had the wondrous Argus C3 which cost $30 in those days, but I've never been able to get him to see if he could come up with some of them.

We all did love that blue DeSoto. It made all of us feel a bit bigger and taller when we had a chance to ride in it. One time Dwight took me and Elaine up to the Cody bb game with Powell, and he took me clear to Penrose when we got back to Powell; you were both always generous with yourselves and your car.


Do you remember that the pictures taken in Cody were when you and I went to pay an official visit to the Cody FFA chapter on behalf of the state FFA? Keep working on your story. I'm anxious to read it.

Stay hopeful, cheerful, and prayerful.

- Dwight Blood

Priorities

Note from the blogger: Dad is no longer able to use a computer to get to the blog. I have been reading them to him when I am in Wyoming, but when I am not, probably no one does. I will however keep writing to the blog. Please send me emails of stories you have about Dad. My brother or I will read them to him, or keep them for posterity.

For those who have sent emails, or commented on the blog – I have read everyone of them to him. I did not change a word – and he laughed, and he cried. Dad has many wonderful friends and family – and as he has tried to tell me – a better memory than most of them
:-)

Thanks - Craig

On to the blog!

I hate it when some one tells me what my priorities are. It might be a managerial thing – it might be a parental thing. I don’t like my kids telling me “this is the way it is” anymore than my parents. When it comes to my boss I simply have to “eat it” with the words “works for me” – even if it doesn’t.

I don’t want someone working for me whose Number #1 priority is “work.” Invariably I can’t keep up with them and then I spend a lot of time “managing” them. It just sounds like “work” to me.

My top five priorities are my belief in and service to God, my wife and children, my other friends and family, my own health and well-being, and my country. While this is the order I always want them to be they are frequently scrambled toward “wife and kids first, family, God…, etc.” I think this happens a lot – to a lot of people.

Greg read a book once titled “I Am Third” by Gale Sayers (autobiography) in which Mr. Sayers introduced us to Brian Piccolo of “Brian’s Song” fame. In this book, Gale Sayers places God first, his family and friends second, and himself third. This was a reminder to me about where my priorities lay.

As readers of the blog know, I learned a lot from my father. Pertinent examples were general construction, vehicle maintenance, and of course my values. I learned to build decks, frame, roof, change the oil and brakes on cars etc. because of my dad’s priorities – not mine.

When I was little, Dad would get me up on Saturday to “work.” Work started about 8 o’clock. This means we got up earlier. Mom would fix us breakfast and I would tag along with Dad until lunch – which was about 2 o’clock. When my brother got old enough he tagged along too. When we got older work still started at 8, but we were responsible for getting up early enough for breakfast - else we waited until lunch. There were several mornings I worked while hungry. But I learned quickly another valuable lesson. These Saturdays, and Sunday's after church were when we learned everything we needed to know, and you can read some of that in previous blogs.

But today, I want to tell you the story of priorities. When I was in junior high, my friends had organized a flag football game for 10 AM Saturday at the high school football practice field. I wanted to play, and asked Dad if I could. He said “no, you have to work.”

I whined a little bit, and tried my keen negotiation skills – also learned from my dad…

“What if I work until just before ten, play flag football for a while, then come back and work until 4 PM rather than 2?”

“No. Work is from 8 till 2.” “But Dad,…” my pleading quickly cut short by his interruption: “You don’t tell your boss when you work – your boss tells you when you work. After you work, then you can do whatever you want.”

I could see I would not win this argument. I didn’t get to play flag football that day and I can’t tell what “work” was either. I do know though, I learned a variation on the adage “work before play” plus how to repair the lawn mower or some other valuable skill.

Thanks for the lesson Dad!

- Craig

Man vs. Wild

“Man vs. Wild” is a Discovery Channel program where a man, “Bear Grylls” and his film crew battle some element of the wild. A couple of weeks ago, my dad, Chad and I watched “Iceland.” In one episode “Sahara” Bear gutted a dead camel and crawled inside for shelter from the elements of the desert.

Dad is a great supporter of Boy Scouts of America. As an Eagle Scout I fancied myself as a “Bear Grylls.” Several of the older members of my troop were adept at “surviving” the wild. I have not eaten Sheep eyeballs or bugs. I have eaten Skunk Cabbage roots, raw meat, dandelions, numerous berries, slept in snow caves, boiled water more than 10 feet from a fire (flint and steel to start it), and spent rather cold nights under piles of fir branches and needles.

One time while elk hunting with Dad, Earl Patterson, and Darrell (I can’t remember his last name), I left camp before dawn with my survival backpack, ammo and 30-06. Within ten minutes I came across a single set of elk tracks and blood drops. Following them for the next several hours during a light snow I found myself in the middle of an entire herd, bedded down for the day. This was amazing! There were more than thirty I could count.

I stood still as they watched me turn slowly, looking for the “bleeder.” There was only one animal I could not see fully – the rest were cows. The herd rose quietly and began walking uphill. I was tired, hungry and it was now after lunchtime. I started to follow my tracks back the way I came and quickly discovered my trail had been snowed over.

However, I kept my bearings and headed straight toward the logging road due North. I slid down steep slopes toward frozen creeks, climbing over huge fallen trees only to climb the steep slope on the other side. Each time I thought I had to be close to the road, but then there was another ravine. I kept heading straight knowing that road was there. Finally, while climbing up a slope, I could go no further. I was exhausted. I lay there in the snow only to fall asleep.

When I awoke it was dark and I was covered by a couple of inches of snow. I could have died. Alarmed, I turned and scrambled up – only to find I was two feet from the edge of the logging road. I had found myself. While walking back toward camp, Dad, Earl and Darrell were in the truck heading my way.

I know Dad was definitely worried that day. We didn’t speak much about it after that. Somehow he probably knew I would end up “on my feet.”

Dad tells of a story where he shot an elk late in the day. It was snowing hard and he was cold. He was too far from camp. His only option was to gut the elk, and crawl inside. He claims to have spent the night in the hollowed out torso of a bull elk.

Man vs. Wild.

- Craig

Lessons from Dad - Part II

A picture may be worth a thousand words, but sometimes only a thousand words can paint the picture. Here are 699 words painting the picture of my dad.

My father was an avid “Scouter.” My brother and I are Eagle Scouts. Dad continued to volunteer for the Chief Seattle Council of the Boy Scouts of America long after my brother and I stopped active participation. He attended the monthly Roundtable meetings and served as a District Commissioner. At some point in the late seventies he received the Silver Beaver and District Awards of Merit. Both of these awards honor local service to the Scouting community.

Most everything you want to know about my father’s values can be easily summarized in the Scout Oath and Law.

THE BOY SCOUT OATH:
On my honor I will do my best
To do my duty to God and my country
and to obey the Scout Law;
To help other people at all times;
To keep myself physically strong,
mentally awake, and morally straight.

I want the reader to let these words sink in. “My duty to God and country” – honoring each life, active participation in church, serving as called in the community, state, and nation. Dad is a Korean War veteran.

“To help other people at all times” – All times, not some of the time or most of the time – but “at all times.”

“To keep myself physically strong” – Dad loves and enjoys the outdoors as much as anyone. While he no longer hunts or fishes it remains on his list of “things to do” and always will.

“Mentally awake, and morally straight” – Dad is aware of everything going on around him – with his family, in the community, the state, the nation and the world. I have never known my dad to be anything other than morally straight because he follows the Scout Law.

THE BOY SCOUT LAW:
Trustworthy
A Scout tells the truth. He keeps his promises. Honesty is part of his code of conduct. People can depend on him.
Loyal
A Scout is true to his family, Scout leaders, friends, school, and nation.
Helpful
A Scout is concerned about other people. He does things willingly for others without pay or reward.
Friendly
A Scout is a friend to all. He is a brother to other Scouts. He seeks to understand others. He respects those with ideas and customs other than his own.
Courteous
A Scout is polite to everyone regardless of age or position. He knows good manners make it easier for people to get along together.
Kind
A Scout understands there is strength in being gentle. He treats others as he wants to be treated. He does not hurt or kill harmless things without reason.
Obedient
A Scout follows the rules of his family, school, and troop. He obeys the laws of his community and country. If he thinks these rules and laws are unfair, he tries to have them changed in an orderly manner rather than disobey them.
Cheerful
A Scout looks for the bright side of things. He cheerfully does tasks that come his way. He tries to make others happy.
Thrifty
A Scout works to pay his way and to help others. He saves for unforeseen needs. He protects and conserves natural resources. He carefully uses time and property.
Brave
A Scout can face danger even if he is afraid. He has the courage to stand for what he thinks is right even if others laugh at or threaten him.
Clean
A Scout keeps his body and mind fit and clean. He goes around with those who believe in living by these same ideals. He helps keep his home and community clean.
Reverent
A Scout is reverent toward God. He is faithful in his religious duties. He respects the beliefs of others.

And – don’t forget the Scout Motto and Slogan:

THE BOY SCOUT MOTTO: Be Prepared.

THE BOY SCOUT SLOGAN: Do a Good Turn Daily.

This is my Dad. This is what makes him who he is. These values are so ingrained in him he never has to think “how he will live.” He simply does and acts in a manner which espouses these values.

- Craig

Lessons from Dad - Part I

Here are some things I have learned from Dad. They are not in any particular order.

Don’t Underestimate Anyone’s Value. Dad always says “Anyone can make a difference. Everyone should try.” Even small actions can have enormous impact.

Take the Initiative. There is no better way to gain a reputation as a person who makes things happen, then to be a person who makes things happen. My Dad is such a man.

Make the Most of First Impressions. Be confident and gracious. Shake hands firmly, smile, and listen actively. Dress appropriately and make eye contact. Dress for the position you want – not the one you have. However I don’t recommend wearing a suit to farm like Eddie Albert did in “Green Acres.”

Delegate – Especially when others talents in a particular area are stronger than yours. This also goes to the adage “many hands make light work.” With Dad being a manager (knowing how to delegate), I found I worked a lot.

Make a Habit of Saving. No one owes you a pension or retirement pay. Social Security was designed to be a supplement not the answer for Retirement.

Set a Higher Standard. Whatever you do, do it to the best of your ability. The worst thing we can do for others is lowering the standard because some people cannot meet it. It implies someone is not capable of growing. Work toward raising them up to the higher standard and they will achieve. At a minimum provide the tools and environment they need to succeed.

Have a Winning Attitude. Attitude is important. It is something you control and something you can chose – negative or positive. I choose to be positive, and so does my dad.

Realize Learning can be Costly. Education is expensive, but ignorance costs much more. Recognize you will pay the price, either for education or ignorance. Education is one thing no one can ever take away from you.

Give your kids a vision for their future – encourage them! Your words are the most powerful force in their lives. Praise your children in front of others. Let them know you are proud of them. I need to do this much more often. I have not been good at this in the past.

Commitment. When you make a commitment keep it. While this is not always possible because things do come up – try your hardest to keep your promise. My dad schedules his personal time around his commitment to others.

You Hit What You Aim For. If you are aiming for nothing, you’ll hit nothing. Set your goals high. Dream big. Even if you fall short, you will have achieved more than most.

-Craig

Brothers

“Brothers will be brothers” as much as “boys will be boys.” Duane and Dwight fit the adage as well as Greg and I. Sometimes brothers are the best of friends and at others the worst of enemies. Many times their relationship exists between the extremes. Generally there is a lot of “one-upmanship.”

Grandma Vesta told stories – lots of stories about the twins.

One story revolved around the time a vacuum cleaner salesman came to the door. The very young twin boys were left to their own devices – climbing to the top of the stairs where the day’s eggs were stored. Over the next few minutes they enjoyed throwing six dozen eggs to the bottom of the stairs. I never found out if there was a contest involved or who won.



Another time Great Grandma (the socialite she and her sister were) had some of the church society out to the house one Sunday afternoon. The twins were told strictly not to get their church clothes dirty while they were outside playing. As the guests arrived, they laughed and commented on how cute the twins were. Much to Great Grandma’s embarrassment and to the delight of Powell’s high society, the twins had stripped naked, folded their clothes neatly and were playing in a mud puddle - obeying their stern warning.


These were two of my favorites.

Dad says they received a daily “swat.” Grandpa Manford said something to the effect “either you did something to deserve it, or you will.” Dad agrees that usually a daily swat was deserved. I am sure these two stories illustrate the need for corporal punishment, but it also seems to show that it doesn’t always take root either.

My brother and I got swats too (reference: Laughter is the Best Medicine, posted Friday August 17, 2007). As brothers would be brothers we often found ourselves trying to avoid the swats by blaming someone else – particularly a sibling. Sometimes a smart older sibling will set up the younger one – knowing they would get the blame. There was always something enjoyable about watching your brother get in trouble – and then receive the swat!

Janet Smith reminded me of a time when we lived in Renton. Greg and I shared a room making the 3rd bedroom available as a “play room.” As she recalls it I was 5 or 6, fully capable of reading and writing. This means Greg was 2 or 3.

I had “hatched” a plan to get my younger brother in trouble. I used the word hatched because of the adage “the best laid plans…” sounds like something “hatched.”

I wrote his name with crayons on the walls of the play room. When Mom noticed, I said “Gregory did it” not fully comprehending he could neither read nor write. While I give myself credit for “hatching” the idea, it was not until much later I learned to fully think out the consequences of a plan.

I am sure I got a swat from Dad.

- Craig

Food

I like to watch the Food Network. I don't really care for Emeril Live!, but I enjoy Rachel Ray and Giada. I even fancy myself as a pretty good cook - a Chef wannabe.

I will eat pretty much anything, and try others. I am not a big fish fan. Sushi - raw seafood - is not on my list unless I am hungry. I love meat although I could easily go vegetarian - lacto-ova versus vegan. Julie said "no."

Mom says I used to like Mac 'n Cheese. Actually I loved it! But after a while you can only eat so much. Seldom do I eat the plate of beans and cornbread - but I bought 50 pounds of dried beans last week in Wyoming. Julie makes her own refried beans because a lot of the canned stuff has so much fat and salt - lard is a no-no at my house. Some if not most of the dried beans will be donated to the local Hispanic Mission to feed migrant farm workers in the spring.

Mom says we quit eating Mac 'n Cheese when one evening Dad said "yuck!" I don't remember that - but I guess it is another of the many valuable lessons I have learned from Dad.

I don't eat peanut butter because it seems peanut butter and jelly sandwiches is all I ever got for lunch - Welch's Grape Jelly to be specific. Dad loves peanut butter on his toast. So does my son Chad who taught Dad to put it on his waffles with a little maple syrup.

Lunch at Great Grandparents

Clockwise - Left to Right: Great Grandma, Mom, Uncle Jack, Great Grandpa,

Grandma Vesta's head, Grandma Irma, Aunt Martha and ME!

There are times when I felt too sick to eat - but it is a rarity. I simply love food. Dad does too. Since the Friday after Thanksgiving Dad hasn't eaten much. He says he isn't hungry. In fact - other than some Ensure he hadn't eaten anything for a week. I guess he wasn't a big fan of the mashed broccoli and tofu casserole he ate on his pH diet. I ate it, but it didn't look that good.

Food smells good, but there isn't much taste. Today he ate! He ate a couple bites of scrambled eggs, a couple of toast, a bite of a muffin and drank his juice for breakfast. For dinner he ate his pudding, and about a quarter of his sandwich and another juice. He told Greg he just wasn't hungry.

Thanks for the lesson on the Mac 'n Cheese Dad - and keep eating!


- Craig