Go West Young Man

This Thanksgiving I am visiting my family in Iowa. These visits always bring back a panoply of memories: the smells of Cedar Rapids, the taste of Zoey's pizza, corn fields stretching for miles, the sound of Boggle cubes being rearranged, and warm embraces from my family. This particular Thanksgiving has a brand new memory, meeting my nephew Weston Carl Barnett. He is the pride and joy of Ben and Laura Barnett, and he has me wrapped around his thumb in no time at all.

All of the Chandlers love little Weston, but they have unique ways of interacting with him. Grammy Sandy loves rocking her "Cuddlebug" and taking him on sightseeing tours throughout the house. When Weston is in the house with her, Grammy Sandy becomes a first class Thespian with her expressive eyes, dramatic words, and emphatic gestures. Grandpa Bill loves interacting with him musically, either through whistling or plucking the guitar. Uncle Michael is less hands on, but still is equally interested in observing and interacting with young Weston. Being late to the party, I have to compete for his affections with others, specifically Grammy Sandy. Grammy interprets any sigh or ill-tempered coo as a sign that my "Boogie Man" has had enough of my company. So the pressure is really on to impress Weston. I haven't come up with a signature interaction with him yet, but honestly, he is so fun to just hold and squeeze!