We had a good family gathering today up at Jamie's, with a gang of about 15  of us laughing and chatting and generally feeling good about being together again. Some of us, of course, are quieter than others, but I hope everyone could feel the friendliness, even underneath or without words. I had some good conversations with Gabe and Rachael and Luke and Annie, and it was heart-warming for me to see the closeness among some members of the family. 

It has been such fun to have Aaron with us for these few days. He was a big help on the autumn chores, and he and his mom had a great time chatting and walking at Barn Island and visiting The Mystic Aquarium. I have truly never seen a mom and son any better friends than these two. It's quite remarkable.