Writers such as Ned share everything of themselves and help us to see the world in ways we miss from our own perspective. That is the gift he gave, there was no holding back or trying to deceive — it was all there as a perspective and an invitation to find all the good that exists even when the experiences seem to say otherwise. We are lucky to have someone like Ned cross our paths for a minute or a lifetime, a man who cared deeply and shared selflessly.
Dave Miramant, friend & Maine State Senator
The last project Ned had in mind before his health got in the way, was to publish essential pieces of the blog he wrote for the Bangor Daily News from 2013 through 2019: Journeys Over a Hot Stove. Though Ned was unable to do it, he and his wife Carla discussed much of what he would and wouldn't want to keep in such a book.
After he passed peacefully (though not without a fight!) at home on January 29, 2021, Carla took the project under her wing, collecting all six years of the BDN blog, weeding out those pieces according to his wishes, and only making such edits as updating links. She also included several poems written by Ned over decades, as well as a short story that Ned had always wanted to "do something with." The result is a 499 page memorial collection - designed cover-to-cover by Carla - of poetry, a short story, photography and selections from six years of Ned's writings on food, travel, science, humor, those realms where physics and spirituality merge, human relationships, cultural nuances, health, philosophy, aging, and more. Ned lived to learn, to share ideas with others, to challenge us all with new ways of thinking, and to entertain with humor and interesting stories. What's special about this collection is that he wrote everything within straight from his heart. Whether a poem for a loved one's birthday or burial, heartfelt words for his children or grandchildren, and of course his blog, these are writings unrestrained by having to write for a client or particular audience. Unedited, he was writing for himself, doing what he loved best - sharing love, philosophy, life experience, his favorite recipes, questions about phenomena science continues to wrestle with (if it acknowledges the mystery at all), and observations and stories from years of road trips.
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In honor of Ned, proceeds from the first 50 copies sold were donated to the Sunrise Media Collective supporting their great work on tribal rights and their intersection with environmental issues in Maine. Thanks to all who participated. |
Whether you read it cover-to-cover or pick it up on occasion to take in small chunks, we hope you will enjoy and expand your horizons.