Here is Sammy at “Learn with Me” on base. It’s a program sponsored by the Armed Services YMCA. Three days a week they have structured play and circle time for $1/visit. We try to go on Fridays. Here is Sammy on his second visit. He wanted to help with singing by playing his guitar. His favorite spots are the tool area and the kitchen (just like daddy!). He has also been making me create silly new songs. Like the “mayonnaise” song – “mayonnaise, mayonnaise, I like it with my turkey and cheese; mayonnaise, mayonnaise, can I have some more please?” He recently started making one up himself in celebration of Pig and Bear’s forthcoming visit for Thanksgiving – “Tita Bear, Tita Bear, I love your long hair; Tito Pig, Tito Pig, how did you get so big?”

We’re busy busy busy this week. We secured a loan to remodel our kitchen. Now we’re steeped in the tedium of design and sourcing appliances. That’s no easy feat – many many items are not available on island and you have to wait 6-8 wks usually, or 8-10 wks when near holiday season. We found a local cabinetmaker, so that is all set. My task these past few days is finding appliances that are on island AND meet Dave’s specs. I am a tad burnt out on all the phone calls to Home Depot and Lowes, on top of doing my own work, playing with Sam, trying to fit in some exercise, redesigning Doug and Mary’s wedding announcements and staying on top of their wedding details. Oh, and continuing to manage some issues with our homeowner’s association. Thankfully the insurance issue is resolved – we found a new carrier and saved over $2000 a year! Wow. I wrote a letter to all the owners to accompany this month’s bill detailing where their fees are allocated as well as the accomplishments the board has achieved in the short 6 months we’ve been “on duty.”