However, there were many positive aspects to Jim’s relationship with his strict, verbally-abusive father. One time his father said, "Son I‘d like to take you on a camping trip to the Mohave desert and show you where I lived for a couple of years when I was a boy." That particular trip was a birthday present for Jim, who was allowed to take along friends Brian and Theus. Thomas said, "We’ll pack the Model A and take off Friday a week from now. Step lively son; we have much to do to get ready for our bivouac."
On that particular Friday, Jim’s father picked up the boys at the Los Feliz Grammar School. The group, headed east into the San Fernando Valley, through Soledad Canyon and on to Antelope Valley. They came to the little town of Rosemond, and then to Rosemond Dry Lake. To the South were the San Gabriel Mountains and to the North the Tehachapi’s. Thomas claimed that his father helped build the Southern Pacific Railroad. Jim’s camping skills were sharpened as he learned more about nature’s elements. Thomas taught him about the behavior of rattlesnakes, building a campfire, making roasting sticks with long tree branches and then sharpening the points to hold the hot dogs, or marshmallows in place. Jim learned that prunes are good for the "constitution." He learned how to cook, wash the dishes, bury the garbage, and make the "poop pit." Jim received a first-hand education about living in the desert, which prepared him for the future. It was apparent that young Jim learned about affiliation, friendship, how to take in information and apply it as well. He also received valuable information about becoming a good citizen; being self-reliant, disciplined, and respectful of the environment and the necessary components of a healthy lifestyle.
Well my friends, for the past four days you have had a brief glimpse into the life of Jim Steere. Believe me, if you liked this part, you will enjoy the rest and find Jim’s story most interesting.
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