Max was excited that one of his bottom teeth is loose. I said, “What happens when the tooth comes out?” He said jubilantly, “You put the tooth under your bed and they give you a blanket!”

Max and I had a wonderful trip to Oregon to see family. Our pressing reason to go was to spend time with my grandmother, Cena, who was ill (since then she is feeling better – praise the Lord). It was pure joy and ease to fly out of SB and go straight to Portland. The five days were a super time with just my firstborn – such a treat really! Mom and Don graciously accommodated me and their active grandson in their house. My aunts Glenda and Bonnie were also there, and we had neat family dinners just about every night. Max and I went to the Oregon Zoo (free with my SB pass – yea! and so neat!), blueberry picking at a blueberry farm, and a Target where he spent his own $8.00 on a toy (a 25 minute pondering experience). It was a really great time. Max and Gran with kitties (one of whom she will keep) Enjoying the Oregon Zoo Max’s wingspan A zoo cuddle Singing hymns and spirituals with Gran, Aunt Glenda and Aunt Bonnie Blueberry picking! Cena, Grandaddy and Max Our fun group after dinner

We had a nice mellow day – Max learned some new tricks (that we’ll tell you about soon). We enjoyed dinner with our great friends the Weinbenders – so glad to have them in town.

Here’s Max and his dear swimming teacher, Miss Betty. She is amazing. He finally ‘gets it’ and though he doesn’t have perfect form (nor do I), he can at least dog-paddle across the pool and the arms and legs are working together.