My new hat and more...

To begin this story, here is my cousin Louella. She doesn't come in the rest of this story, but every good tale has to start with a beautiful girl. So, once upon a time, Lou's Mom, my Aunt Mary, another pretty lady, knit me a hat....

Moving quickly to the climax, my hat was forced upon me.

And so I cried...

...and would not be comforted.

Until I paused, rationalized, and reasoned with Mom that actually this was a very nice hat.

And so I lived happily ever the afternoon quite cozy.

THE END

Also to tack on for fun, I got to meet some new friends the Dirkses!

14 Hour Drive for Dinner

Even after our 7600 mile road trip last summer, we didn't know if we could handle a day trip with Charles. But at 8:30am last Saturday, we headed off for Whidbey Island for the reward of Gordon's cooking. Our first dining experience at "Gordon's on Blueberry Hill" was on our honeymoon, and our now 3rd annual tradition is to celebrate our Anniversary there every summer. After only 1 pit stop and a ferry ride (yes, Charles has earned his place in the family), we arrived at our 4:00pm dinner reservation.

I love road trips--yeah, that's our boy!

Our favorite dish at Gordon's is his London broil drizzled with a raspberry balsamic reduction sauce. We also enjoyed pistachio creme brulee for dessert. We arrived safely home at 12:30am, none the worse for wear. And yes, in the name of tradition and delicious food, the drive was worth it!

My 2-month update

My newest trick

Dad makes me do my reading every day...

I had my 2-month checkup, and if you can't quite read the memo, I am up to 11 pounds! The 3 pound weights are still a little much though.

This one's for you Auntie Sam!

Dad also wants me to learn push-ups.

Okay, last bragging picture for now.

Four Generations

From left to right: "Charlie" (Charles Earl Dowers "Junior"); "Bob" (Robert Earl Dowers); "Chuck" (Charles Earl Dowers I); and little Charles Earl Dowers III