The Skillet List

Once Gene received word that his gastric by-pass surgery had been approved, he started planning the food funeral that would consume the foreseeable future. Knowing that the foods he loved would be essentially placed in the "pine box" and buried, he decided to spend time with each of them before their demise. Herewith, the "Skillet List" in the order of consumption (my apologies to Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman):

Oreo Pie
Grilled Burgers
Steak
Beef Stew/Slaw/Cornbread
Macaroni & Tomatoes
Fried Cabbage (he can still have this)
Goulash
My Chocolate Cake
Banana Split Pie
Apple Pie
Home Fries

Thanksgiving didn't prove to be near the challenge we thought it might be. I prepared the usual Wood family fare: chicken, dumplings, fried corn, etc. Gene put 1/4 cup of his most highly desired items on his plate and ate slowly. He couldn't begin to get it all down and was no worse for the lack. We spent the rest of the day watching football with the family and even visited at my Aunt Carol Lynn's house late in the evening where another spread was prepared. Gene nibbled at a few things and walked away, seemingly content to enjoy the family stories flowing around the room.

On Friday, I left Gene alone with a full refrigerator while I took my niece shopping. Inventory of the fridge upon my return indicated that Gene had been a good boy!

The highlight of my holiday and honestly, of the last 5 months 18 days since surgery was going to downtown Knoxville to celebrate the lighting of the Christmas tree at Krutch Park, check out the vendors and shops, watch the ice skaters and have dinner at Tomato Head with my sister, her husband and Hannah. We parked a mile from the sight, walked there, milled about for 3 hours and walked back to the car. Gene Wood walked all the way. There were no complaints, whines, grimaces or groans.

This is the life we have been waiting for.