Besides the ham, my father's homemade bread was enough to make anyone's mouth water. Startled, Pete was at a loss for words. In the years he worked for the company, he had never been invited to a meal. Yes, I am. So they all sat down to a hearty feast of hickory-smoked ham, thick slabs of warm bread smothered in fresh butter, pickles right from the barrel, and mugs of hot coffee and sugar.
Hospitality pays off The delicious meal and warm cabin made everyone relax.
Even Pete joined in the conversation a little, encouraged by my father. The animosity between the loggers and Pete seemed to disappear like the smoke up the chimney. But after the meal, it was back to business. As the oldest of eight children, I'd often help my mother in the kitchen. You can help me hold the tape.