Baby Shower for Becky and Jeff

On a sticky, misty summer afternoon, we felt our way to Joanne's home for a surprise baby shower for Becky and Jeff. Was it down this road or the one we just passed? Do you recognize these mailboxes? We did not think to look up the address because we have celebrated special occasions here so many times over the years. It's like going home; you can sense it. It was fitting that friends from near and far gathered here to welcome a much-loved couple and their baby. Nathan quickly warmed up to his old friend Aidan, and their younger siblings plotted ways to challenge their big brothers.

Amy proved to be the queen of kids' games. The boys played this statue sort of game for almost the entire party which amused Aunt Katie and other friends in the audience.

These friends have been a part of our family during these long school years, and we were delighted to spend time with them again. Jenny and I shared our early motherhood years together, and it was great to see all of our children playing together.

Maya was very happy to see her friend Cody, and sweet Laurie was beautiful as always.

I think Peter took this picture of Stephanie with us. Stephanie's known for her talent for taking self -plus-friends photos. Stephanie was one of the first people we met out here. During our first snowy winter, she assured me that everyone falls on the ice and did an imitation of a bug flailing in the air to make me feel better after my first embarrassing slip on campus.

Becky, who is so thoughtful and generous, was treated to her own special surprise party. Towards the end of the shower, Becky surveyed her many friends who had traveled home for this happy occasion and she said: "I am truly blessed," with tears in her eyes. And that is how all of us feel about having Becky and Jeff in our lives. Here she is opening a gift from Aaron who always gives new babies a supply of diapers in his signature white garbage bag wrapping; both his gift and wrapping are very useful to new parents, we know.

We remember Tomas as a toddler. Lucky Joanne remains ageless and is always warm and loving, always welcoming us to her home. Thank you!