George

It’s been a tough few days and I don’t know why. There hasn’t been one creative ounce in this body. None. Self-aware, steps for de-funking are pretty simple: read scripture, exercise, drink plenty of water, inspect my diet, and make sure to get adequate amounts of sunshine and probiotics (kimchi, sauerkraut, so forth). 

 

We walk several miles, Maggie and I, exploring over three years of construction in Hoback. Right off the bat we come upon a gentleman manning the ‘Slow’ sign. Today it wasn’t necessary for him to stop any traffic, he just encouraged everyone to take it easy. Maggie and I visited with him. I’ve seen him standing patiently on the roadway all 3+ years. 

 

He loves Maggie Rose, and she lets him pet her. (Yesterday at the food truck another gentleman wasn’t as lucky. His phone fell to the asphalt as he was bending over to pet her. No bueno; she wanted no part of clumsy.) 

 

I visit with gentleman, asking questions, because I can. Our Hoback construction project wraps up (finally), in the next week or two. He will be heading to Yellowstone. He’s quite excited at the prospect of a new location. He is also being provided a small RV while there. I ask him where he stays now, while on this job. 

 

“I have a nice piece of memory foam in the back of my truck that I cut in half. It’s really comfortable.”

 

We talk politics, but of course. And food. He was a trained chef in another life. I ask him what he had for lunch. 

 

“The lasagna down at Hoback Market is great, not too spicy, and not too much ricotta.”

 

I ask if he’s tried another selection. He has not.

 

“I only have two teeth. I’m careful what I eat. I have dentures in my truck, but they gag me, the palate portion.”

 

“That needs to be corrected my friend, so you can comfortably wear them.”

 

“I grinded the entire palate off so I can use them when I need to.”

 

He gave me advice for when crowns come off:

 

“Get some super glue. Dry the area off with an air hose, apply super glue inside the crown, pop it back in the socket and you are good to go for at least six months to a year.”

 

I’ve used super glue to seal cuts on my hands. Works like a charm. 

 

He’s considered moving to Alaska, as have I. He would build a small cabin in BFE and live off the land. 

 

Sounds like a plan. 

 

I ask his name.

 

“George.”

 

“George, it was a pleasure meeting you.”

 

“It was a pleasure meeting you, and you too Maggie Rose.”

 

George made our day, Maggie Rose and me.