Joplin

Clare has had a very busy weekend here in Joplin.

We started our visit with a trip to Fortune East, Jeff’s favorite restaurant where they have by far the best egg rolls. When Clare was born Greg and Gail brought two dozen egg rolls with them to Colorado, this trip we will be taking 30 egg rolls and 2 quarts of General Tso sauce home with us. These egg rolls are that good.

Our first stop on the family tour was Ruth, Clare is Ruth’s first Great Great Grandchild; not many little girls are lucky enough to have five generations in their family. It was so nice to see Ruth and Clare visiting with each other, Ruth has a very special touch, Clare was happy as could be in her arms. They must haven been sharing secrets with how closely Clare was watching her.

Clare also spent time visiting with Merrell and Imo, her Great Grandparents. Merrell was kind enough to chat over an afternoon snack; again she couldn’t take her eyes off of him. Clare must be able to sense how special of a person Merrell is; she seemed to really be at ease in his arms, maybe she was hoping to hear stories of when Jeff was little and he and Imo would watch him. Imo also had a way with Clare, although it seemed as though all they wanted to do was chat. Clare really enjoyed spending time visiting with Imo and Merrell.

Julie and Dillon were also at Ruth’s house for a visit. Clare is the first baby in the family since Dillon.

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Steve came by Thursday evening after mowing. I wasn't sure if the towel was in fear of Clare spitting up or to keep her from the sweat and grass on Steve, maybe both.

Friday evening Gail had everyone over for dinner, we spent the evening visiting while enjoying good food. Clare wore one of her new outfits that she got at the mall earlier in the afternoon; she wanted to show it off to everyone. Can you see her wings??

Steve was happy to introduce Clare to Pauline.

Kai hoping someone might 'accidently' drop a piece of brisket.

We also visited with the Sweet side of the family. Rick and Cinda came over on Thursday evening since they were leaving for vacation on Friday, we were very glad to see them before they left. Satina also came with her boys, they sure do have a lot of energy!! It was very sweet to see Hayden with Clare, he came in the room where she was and said she was beautiful and how adorable she was, he then of course wanted to hold her, it was very cute.

Four generations of Sweets, four by birth and one by marriage.

I am so glad Clare has such a large family here in Joplin; she is a lucky girl to have so many people that love her. Like Ohio, we don't get to Missouri as often as we'd like. I'm sure that Clare will love visiting when we can, even if it is hot and humid.