Grandpa's Gift

Hey everybody!
We had another stellar weekend with family. This time, we went to NY so Shea could get to meet the other kids in the family - Jess's cousin's kids. I guess that would be his second cousins, but I could be wrong. Anyway, we got to once again experience one of NY's most cherished traditions - a big church event followed by a catered feast accompanies by a DJ. Joey, the oldest child on Jess's side of the family, had his first communion this weekend. Shea wasn't very interested in the ceremony, but really had a good time at the reception, where he danced, ate like a champion, and played with his cousins. After going to a carnival Saturday night, Jess and I got to play adults and stay out past our bedtime. We actually went to a bar, a real bar, and drank and talked with Pete, Barbara, Marta and Nick, Jeff, and Leslie until about 1:30. Surprisingly, we stayed awake and didn't even have a hangover the next day! I actually had over 3 beers (3 and a half to be exact) and could still stand up. Wonders never cease!

The highlight of the weekend, at least for us as a family, came when Grandpa gave Shea a special present. He wrote the music for a lullaby some time ago, but just recently finished the lyrics to it. He hasn't recorded it yet in his studio, but we got it all on tape! We had to upload this clip right away, as it really touched us both in the beauty of the song itself and how Shea reacted throughout by looking Grandpa in the eyes as he played, watching his fingers ply the keys, gently touching Grandpa's arm, and then giving a rousing "Yeah" when the song ended. So, here it is. Enjoy the world premier!

Love,
Doug, Jess, and Shea