Page 131 - MY STORY

I’m pointing this process out because this creation of a

fracture replica is an art form evolved from months to
years of practice. My laboratory folk knew how to do this
in spades! Not me! So, I took a crash course in replica

preparation from my lab folk before my trip to Utah
which resulted in me knowing what had to be done, but
definitely not -- how to do it in any manner which would

bestow comfort to my imagination of a complete debacle!
My concern over showing the class “how to make replicas”
was real and immediate.

About the middle of the second day of class, we were

scheduled to go to the electron microscope lab of the
University of Utah so I could show the class how to
perform this work of art. As we entered the lab, their
electron microscope technician pulled me aside and asked

me “if I would mind terribly - to let him demonstrate the
replica preparation techniques?” He pointed out that “he

had read our handbook, felt proficient in generating
metal-shadowed-carbon replicas and would like to show
his prowess.” Relief was immediate when I graciously

withdrew from that specific event so the lab tech could
Show His Stuff! Thank God for miracles!