Poconos 2023 - It's a Wrap

The Poconos seems like ancient history, but it was only a week ago that we came home (and celebrated Mary's birthday, while others were celebrating Donald's birthday.)

Let me start by quoting Janie who wrote such a lovely note that I wanted to share with everyone.  "At last I am finding a moment or two to tell you how much it meant to all three of us to be part of your terrific celebration of family with the continual chorus of praise (and humor) as we thought of those two Dicksons - Mom and Pop or Sis and Don or Aunt Georganna and Uncle Don - however we named them over the perfect weekend ….. It was special for me to get to know or at least get acquainted with the next generations and their spouses and offspring.  Fond memories:  The beauty of MSL resort and its seductive silence.  The sun shining through the dense trees.  The beauty of the lake and the beach with the Dicksons scattered on or in it. The delicious food and good conversation.  The apparent ease of it all happening. Thanks to you all for what you've given me and my family."  And, of course I wrote back about how we obviously enjoyed having their joining us. 

Her account is a good enough wrap-up, for me.  But, I'll add a few more thoughts, things we learned.

-- Two Dicksons have added tattoos since last year, making a total of at least three who have made that leap!  Can you name all three?

-- Rell has started her own art studio and is selling clothing made of her art work.

-- It's hard but not impossible to get everyone to follow directions – think of group photo, lining up for chow, etc.

-- We had a few firsts, but one that I remember is pizza night.  That may not be the last time we do pizza, even though we probably didn't need ten large pies.

-- Fernando is not a chef, contrary to what I've been saying for years.  He works for the Department of Health which taps into his language skills to reach the sizable Brazilian community on the Vineyard.

-- Jacob has lost 70 pounds by eating only between the hours of 12 noon and four pm

-- Kiernan loves the water!! Everett loves dinosaurs!! Simon loves tetherball!! Donald loves to swim to the dock!!

-- I think I know where everyone works, but I'm not confident enough to match people with places of work.

Donald made it all worthwhile when he ran up to me upon arrival and asked where was Thomas.  Next year, Donald.  

And there is going to be a next year. And we have better cabins.

And next year, we hope that David and Paula are there, the Bill Jones family, and the Joe Dickson family. We missed you all.

Janie passed along these photos that  typify the random chaos of beach and meal time.  There's also one here of Thomas' birthday in Portugal.

Oh, and before leaving, there was a resounding consensus on the title of the weekly letter book – Have a Great Week. Love!  The publisher says there's still time to make that change.

Love from up here!  And Happy day tomorrow Everett.