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Thanks to Holly and Aaron for the Rock Band Guitar Hero party last night. We had a blast. I was on lead guitar and Debra on vocals. Maggie held the drum sticks, but couldn’t quite reach the bass pedal. We’re thinking of starting our own band……Chewy & The Bacas.

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On Saturday, Washington and its neighbor, Orangewood Nazarene Church, held their second annual Friendship Festival. Maggie and I spent a lovely day taking pictures and socializing with everyone.

I have to say that most churches these days seem to only be self-serving, but this church is the exception. They have really taken to heart the idea of servant-leadership. Their work in the community is unmatched from any that I know. In the two years or so since they have reached out to Washington, they have really made an impact on the community. I applaud them.

The Festival was a big hit, bringing together all kinds of community resources and volunteers to put on a fantastic event. I know the kids really enjoyed it from watching all their smiling faces, and seeing their determination to get all their stamps so they could go in the fun zone. Maggie ended up falling asleep in the wrap by the end, she was so tuckered out from everyone smiling at her and talking to her and wanting to hold her.

The first week of 2009 was one of milestones for Maggie. She had her three month check-up on Wednesday. Our friend Amy is her new pediatrician and says she’s doing great. She finally breached nine pounds! She’s still a bit small for her age, but she’s happy and growing by the day.

Last weekend we were at my folks’ house for the Fiesta Bowl game. Maggie was on the floor for tummy time. Debra said she’d seen her roll over before but I hadn’t seen it. I saw her rocking back and forth on the mat and was sure she was about to flip. I called the whole family over to watch. Sure enough she rocked, rocked and rolled over on cue. She got a roaring round of applause from the family.

Finally, Wednesday night we heard Maggie’s first laugh. Debra’s been trying for weeks to get her to giggle. I was changing her and we were playing our usual peek-a-boo game. I gave her a little tickle, she tucked her face behind her hand as if to hide and let out a little “he-he”. Debra wasn’t in the room. I screamed for her to “GET IN HERE, SHE JUST LAUGHED!”. Fortunately Maggie laughed one more time for Mama.

Well, it was play date time again. This time we decided to meet at McCormick Ranch Park in Scottsdale. I have fond memories of the park from my childhood when we used to have huge gatherings with families who adopted kids from other countries. It was called the Open Door Society, and had people who were even crazier than us. (I think I remember a family with 17 kids… maybe I’m confusing it with that show on TLC.) Anyway, the park was a lot smaller than I remember. Isn’t that always the case? I guess because you grow up, and you yourself are bigger, or maybe your experience widens and things become relative. I don’t know!

My mom and dad had Belize for the day, so they met us a bit early. Mom was hoping to get a picture of Belize on the train, but I think everyone in Scottsdale had decided it would be a good day to spend at the park. And they were right! It was gorgeous, but crowded. The lines for the train didn’t drop off until late afternoon after mom and dad had to be home. Oh, well. Maggie got to ride the train, although I’m pretty sure she didn’t enjoy it like Belize would have.

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We had a very nice time chatting and swapping trade secrets with each other. Only one of our childless friends came, Jenn. But come to find out she won’t be childless much longer, since she and Brad are expecting in June. Congratulations! The babies just keep coming!

Shawn and Jed hosted another great Chili Night last night. They make some boss veggie chili. Pile on some grated cheddar and fresh cornbread and you’re set. Shelley and John brought Ian. What a cute little boy. I can’t wait until Maggie is smiling and playful like that. She was mellow the whole evening. I think it’s the ambient noise. Of course Chili Night, like a night of heavy drinking, has consequences….

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