I could write a book about this week's topic...
My dad was not an idle man. In fact nothing could slow him down, not even pancreatic cancer. He was diagnosed with the disease last May. In August we had a big party to celebrate his 68th birthday. In the fall he went to his 50th high school reunion in Syracuse and went fishing as usual. In the winter he traveled to Colorado to play Santa Claus (more like a lovable Grinch version) for his 4 grandkids. In the early spring he tapped his maple trees and began his mini-maple-syrup-production facility. Earlier this summer, he traveled to Colorado to go fishing with his son and see my sister who will be giving him his 5th grandchild in September. All the while he enjoyed the company of his friends, planted his impressive backyard garden, and strengthened his 40 year love-affair with my Mom.
I drew this picture on 04-JUL-09 after sitting with my Dad in the ICU. A few days earlier he spent all day tending to his garden and working on his tractor before going out to dinner with Mom and two of their best friends. He ordered clams, prime rib, and a couple of beers. The next day he was admitted to the hospital with a fever and shortness of breath. He was moved to the ICU on 03-JUL-09. Days pass slowly in the hospital. I did not know what to do with the idle time. Rather than sit and stare at my dad as his breathing got tougher and tougher, I idly drew. This is one of the uninspiring objects I sketched. My dad passed away 09-JUL-09. I'm glad for the idle time now. It gave us all a chance to say what we needed to say.
p.s. I'm glad that you got a stellar last meal, Dad. I think you would have ordered the same damn thing even if you knew what was coming. I'll miss you.
