This Week's Happenings

NOTE: IF YOU STICK AROUND TO THE END OF THIS POST YOU WILL BE RICHLY REWARDED!

Tuesday afternoon Ray and I headed to Manor Care for the second in our series of old-fashioned "Community Sings." We went well beyond the designated hour because the residents wouldn't leave and kept requesting more. Our favorites include "Home on the Range," "After the Ball," "You're a Grand Old Flag," "In the Mood," "The Wabash Cannonball," "Way Down Yonder in the Paw-Paw Patch," "Way Down Upon the Swanee River," and many, many more.


Almost all our friends were wheelchair-bound, but that didn't stop anyone from singing along, clapping their hands, tapping their feet, and best of all, smiling big smiles!

Tuesday night was another occasion for big smiles. Amanda and Brianna joined us for dinner, and Bri seems to be studying us big people with ever more suspicion that there could be some permanent sort of thing going on here.

Lying on her back and realizing she doesn't have to change her diaper, Bri is quite content. Also, rather intense. I'm not sure what to read into the clenched fist and upraised arm. Future freedom rider or tent revival preacher.

The room can have a crowd of us, but Mama's voice is unmistakable. As it should be!

These pictures highlight the cool Atlanta Braves receiving blanket Gail had gotten me and Judy for use at our house. Brianna obviously approved (and no, she's not trying to eat the thing). This is "Tummy Time," a few minutes set aside each day to strengthen those neck muscles and give the arms and legs opportunity to work on pushing.

Warning-- SPOILER! The video at the end of this blog shows this amazing child in action!

Brianna is a hard act to follow, but on Wednesday Jessie had that honor. It was last day of Math Camp, and Jessie was the camp SUPERSTAR. Her certificate sported her trademark Peace Signs, lucky Tar Heel sticker, and official notarized seal.

Here, Jessie models her "graduation" cap--too hot for a gown. She's joined by the head counselor, who is very proud of her achievements in the last two months.

Jessie shares this moment with "Little Professor." She's ready for the EOG and anything other challenge that presents itself.

These are some of the motivating materials we explored as we discovered the excitement of math.

Of course we can't do math for three solid hours. Jessie puts a few more miles on the bike Amanda and Jennifer grew up cruising across this same field.

HERE IT IS. YOU WAITED AND YOU'LL BE GLAD YOU DID. THIS IS FORTY SECONDS OF PURE ENERGY (and soft grunts, Brianna's trademark).