BFFs

We're having a fabulous visit with my oldest and dearest friend Michelle (we met in the third grade) and her family, who I finally convinced -- after 17 years -- to travel to DC from their home in Petaluma, Calif. (I've visited with them many, many times since I moved from NoCal to Virginia, but getting them on a plane took years of hammering). Is it me?

But it took no time before Harry got sweet on their 16 (!!) year-old daughter Katie. He asks after her all day long. Where is she? Is she getting dressed? Can she play with me? While brother Ryan, 8, is an awesome trains playmate, he apparently doesn't hold a candle to Katie. Last night Harry asked "Is Katie coming to dinner?" Yes, I explained. They he hooked his thumb in Ryan's direction and asked "What about this kid?"

Ryan, on the other hand, is the clear source of Charlotte's affection. He fetches her dollies and takes her hand to help her down the stairs. Such a gentleman! He even shared his prized Nationals batter's hat with her.

We will be SO sorry to see them go on Thursday.