Erin and Franco came to visit us in October 2006. James was going through a stage where he was very interested in cooking, but since he was not able to read, he did not like written recipes. He much preferred "brain recipes"--you know the kind you make up as you go along.
On the last day of their visit, Erin, Franco and I were all sitting in the living room exhausted from the day's activities. James found this to be extremely boring so he announced he was going to make some cookies. He got up and went to the kitchen. There were clanking sounds. Erin and I ignored him, but Franco got sucked in.
James used a variety of ingredients in his Brain Cookies--the most notable being Erin's fiber supplement. There was also unsweetened cocoa and a variety of spices. Eventually James decided the dough was ready and I helped him put his cookies in the oven.
When they came out, James was the only person brave enough to try one...
I think the exact comment was "This tastes weird."
Luckily weird is right up Abbie's alley. The brain cookies ended up becoming dog biscuits.
I'm sure you will all be pleased to know that James can read now, and has changed his mind about written recipes. They are fine by him--although he's not adverse to adding a few extra ingredients when his brain tells him to!
Abbie looking pretty in the front of the boat.
Jeff and Abbie.
Debbie clowning around on the shore.
Coaxing Abbie into the water. Abbie is reluctant...
but Abbie will do anything for food.
Abbie and I enjoying a cold one as we get ready to head home.
Trish gave me this picture of herself and her favorite horse, Peace, in 1990.
No idea on the year.... Chloe, do you know?
In 2001, Ryan could happily spend hours vacuuming. 
Now he only does it if he's hoping to get his allowance...
I think the exact comment was "This tastes weird."
I'm sure you will all be pleased to know that James can read now, and has changed his mind about written recipes. They are fine by him--although he's not adverse to adding a few extra ingredients when his brain tells him to!
Still life of Seth's work essentials during his time at the Dixon Gallery and Gardens.
This picture was taken on a trip back to Seth's hometown of Overland Park, KS. From left to right: Seth, Jennifer, Granddandy, Tom, GrandBobby, Jonas, Cindy and Jason.
Seth on the banks of the Mighty Mississippi.
