I can't remember exactly when, probably when Tom was in his mid-teens, four of us went on a backpacking trip. Tom, Gordy Branch, our neighbor and Jan and I (Tom's sisters).We were pretty happy hikers, but, we'd worked up a sweat and needed some relief. We came upon a beautiful creek that was slipping down some large smooth granite slabs. We slid and slid. It was the best part of the day. So far. We were cool and refreshed. Wonderful. We got out of the water and realized that the reason the rocks were so slippery was that they were covered with leeches. They were in our underwear and more private places. It took a bit of the romance out of the experience, but we washed thoroughly and figured we'd live.
The next part was the BEST part of the day. Tom found a little dead ant on the rock just about a half inch from the water. He assumed it had drowned. This was very sad for Tom, but he decided to try to do something about it. He gently took Lazarus (as he was later called) into his hand and blew on him. Then he worked each little leg with his fingers. He kept alternating: blowing, pumping, blowing, pumping. Soon, little Lazarus (now you'll understand the name) came to and started walking around on Tom's hand. Probably one of many miracles he performed in his short life. Another was almost getting his nephew, Blair to wear a dog's shock collar.
Love to you, Tom. Thanks for the crazy and sweet memories.
Lo