Standing Tall and Proud

Cody has changed in many ways since joining our family, most noticeably, he has become what I would describe as more confident.

Initially, Cody had a difficult time looking people in the eye. Whenever his eyes met with a person's, he would immediately look away, then look back, and then look away again. This behavior was so noticeable, that we often referred to Cody as Mr. Eye Darter.

Over time, as Cody apparently began to realize that in our pack, everyone is an equal, the eye darting behavior gradually went away. And the eye darting wasn't the only behavioral change we've observed, we've also noticed changes in his posture. Cody not only gazes longingly into your eyes now, but he stands taller and prouder with his head held very high.

What an amazing transformation to see the insecurities dissipate from this beautiful creature.

Cornfest

This is a weekend that Michele and I look forward to each year, because it is the weekend that Normal hosts the Sweet Corn Blues Festival.

This year's festival was absolutely perfect in every way. The temperature was much cooler than the scorcher we had last year, and there was no sign of any dishonest street preachers like the one we encountered on a prior visit.

As always, the sweet corn was spectacular, but this year included an additional good experience, which was the food at The Rock Restaurant. They sell gyro sandwiches and other Mediterranean food.

I'm a huge fan of gyro sandwiches, and man oh man, I think this was the best gyro experience I've ever had. Not just because the sandwich was delicious and hot, but because the restaurant was very clean and inviting, and the workers were very friendly and helpful. Here's a photo of the delicious gyro sandwich I was served:

Hot golden brown french fries. Steaming hot, thick cut lamb. I felt like I had died and gone to heaven.

I think I've found my go to place for Gyros.

Nick Went to College

Michele and I have become empty nesters, now that Nick has left for college at Southeast Missouri State:

Nick's dorm room at Towers East

Our good friend Sarah stopped by to wish Nick well on the next chapter of his journey through life.

We spoke to Nick yesterday evening, and he assured us that everything is going well. He told us that yesterday morning his entire floor went to breakfast together, and today, he will be going cliff diving. 

Did he say cliff diving?

Wow, I guess the adventure has begun. I couldn't be more proud of this young man.

Kris and Her Babies

My sister's girls really love their mom:

 

Josh Dropped by for a Night

On his way back to Sioux Falls from his summer internship in Washington D.C, Josh stopped by to say hello.

It was nice to re-connect with him. We just don't cross paths as much anymore. Good luck with school this year Josh!

Alex Goes Back to College

Yesterday was move in day for Alex at Missouri State. He's excited for another good year.

His room looks like a very productive studying environment, which would probably be true of any room containing an Einstein poster.

Some of the peeps stopped by to wish Alex well and to say goodbye:

Michele and I got into some pictures also:

I couldn't be more proud.