David's Lentils

My family was gathered for a funeral yesterday.  I, with great regret, was not able to drive north to join them. I wish I could have been with them to grieve and celebrate my uncle.  David was always such a kind, gentle man.  Many of my most happy childhood memories center around him and his farm--riding in the combine with him during harvest (a huge highlight), helping on branding day, throwing hay to the cattle, playing with barn cats, burning things in the burn barrel, (which was pretty darn cool as a kid, I must say), riding 4-H pigs in the barnyard, naming calves, exploring the barn with all its sights and smells in over-sized rubber boots I'd borrowed, etc.    I'd go to stay with my aunt, uncle, and cousins for a week or two in the summers.  It was my chance to pretend I grew up on a farm and I loved it.  We had SO much fun.  So, it was with a heavy heart I decided that I just couldn't make it to the funeral yesterday.  But, I still wanted to do something to honor my uncle, David, and the thoughtful, kind soul that he was.  So, I cooked up a big pot of the lentils which he grew on his farm and had given to me many months back after hearing how I enjoy them so.  Its a simple act, I realize, but it meant a lot to me personally.  I am so glad I had those nice chats with him when we were all just in Idaho last month.  I would never have guessed that it would be the last time I was able to do so.