Michael at 6

Michael is 6. We drove to Legoland, near the San Diego coast, and had a great time. Growing-up in LA, fantasy parks like Disneyland and Knott's Berry Farm were the oases of my suburban desert landscape (Magic Mountain was too far). SoCal wharfs have traditional funhouse arcades (why are they always located at piers?) - Long Beach had a tremendous rollercoaster, Santa Monica's Pier is legendary - but Legoland came later and with a narrower demographic: Michael's peer group.The relentless sun faded some of the colors, but things were pretty intense nonetheless.

Like most other destinations, it was a DRIVE, passing the famous illegal alien signs off the San Diego Fwy. I remarked to Carolyn, "This is like going to Portland or Vancouver from Tacoma."

Face painting was particularly skillful.

Merchandising was particularly pricey: $500 for the Star Wars DeathStar? We passed.

Jack has been in serious "choo-choo" train withdrawal, since leaving Switzerland, where every town also seemed to have a merry-go-round.

We returned home for "stacking" cake (Michael's request) and presents; joined by our dear friends, the Kwongs (minus their Wheaton freshman, Zachary)

Each person makes such a unique contribution to the family. Michael is our larger than life comedian, who meets life's moments with such zest and gusto. He often prays at bedtime, "Thank You for the world."