We spent the first weekend of August in Seattle with Charissa's extended family. Aunt Sandy and Uncle Bob live in a great lake house, so we spent time swimming, canoeing, being with family and relaxing as we got over our jet lag from Tanzania. We got to go to the "SeaFair" which is a big festival on Lake Washington where they race hydroplanes. The blue angels did an airshow in the middle of the day and it was awesome. We also had our favorite clam chowder down on the water front and went to Pike Place Market which is always fun. The last night we were there, the whole family went to a Mariners game, and it was "Japanese night" so we all got free hats that said Mariners in Japanese:) But it's a good thing, because we needed rally caps in the 7th inning so the Mariners could win. I (Charissa) got to spend time with my good friend and roommate from Liberty Kristy Graham and her beautiful daughter Hannah Ruth! It was so great to see her and catch up.
Toby was officially commissioned into the Marines on August 22. He just returned from officer candidate school and he'll head to Basic School in March, then flight school sometime after that. 
Toby's dream to become a Marine was inspired by our mom's father, Grandpa Hank, who was also a fighter pilot. Granda passed away 10 years ago, and we all miss him so much. Grandma presented Toby with Grandpa Hanks sword which was such an honor and a blessing.
Our family is so proud of you, Toby!
Even baby Brady!!!!!
