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Show Lifeline 4 window. "You don't need a green thumb to grow geraniums," she volunteered brightly. The plant took root, but when the leaves yellowed and sloughed off, I was thrown into a tailspin. I thought I'd never rise above my depression. I couldn't tell the family my geranium up and died. With the Christmas season upon us, Clark obtained a permit to cut our tree. We drove up Ruby Valley into the crystalline backwoods, breaking trail. "Don't be choosy," I called after Clark and Kirk, as they headed for the pines. "It's getting late." A chill of apprehension ran through me. "And don't anyone play the radio," Clark countered. Liz and Jennifer ran through several carols before the menfolk reappeared, bearing a sDi'ndly mishapen tree. As they climbed in, I noted Kirk was shivering, his levis icing up. Clark blew on his numbed fingers. "Let's get the show on the road!" He turned the key. Nothing. He tried again. Not a peep. He caught me in the mirror. "Un-uh. We never touched the dial." "We'll die like Heidi did!" Jennifer sobbed. "No, baby no." I cradled her to me. "Hush now." Clark tried to calm her fears. "Silly-billy you. This happens at home - -. We always get it started. Kirk, you're the mechanic. Give 'er a try. A quick examination and Kirk returned. "Dad, I can't find the trouble. Everything looks in workinq order." I was acutely aware of how swift tragedy could strike. With |