Picking berries with Grandma Crow

We have had some fun times with Grandma Crow this summer. I am truly grateful as I really enjoy spending time with her. She is a very special person with an adventurous spirit and a great sense of humor. And what a fun grandma! She always has a special book or treat for you both and she is always teaching you something new. Even though she's a grown-up, she's still a kid at heart and I think that helps her connect with children in a very amazing way.

The best part of grandma, is that she loves you through and through - even when you are naughty and hit your brother - even when you both scream in the car - even when you make a colossal mess at the restaurant - and so on and so on. We all need her love in our lives - no one more than me.

Here are some pictures from our recent berry picking adventure in Hood River.

Lucy's "tricks"

Often heard lately is "Watch this, I'm going to do a trick." And here is your favorite - downward dog with one leg raised. Very impressive.

But I think the real trick is that head of hair. Look at those curly locks!

On helmet time

My dear Henry,

The era of the helmet has begun. We are on a rigid ramp-up schedule to acclimatize you to your new headgear over the next seven days. Soon, you'll be wearing it 23 hours/day. The five-month count down has begun. Now grow head grow!

So far, you aren't complaining and don't seem to mind it much. But you are sweating - A LOT. We can take it off to clean it every day but they hinted it would get harder and harder to get the dirt and sweat out. Pardon my sniffing your head every five minutes but I'm determined to soak up your sweet baby smell while I can.

On the plus side, the extra protection is proving useful. Yesterday, we let you jump around in your swing - over cement(!) and with Lucy nearby(!!). Previously, this activity was only open to Storm Troopers in full gear.

Before

During

After

Except of course you'll be a lot more handsome and choose a much more sensible girl.

Love you,

Mama

Mama's little monkey

Eee eee eee. Henry, you are the cutest monkey in the whole world.