Surprise Visit

Two weeks ago we had the unexpected surprise of a family visit. We sometimes feel so far away from family here - certainly from extended family. So it was a great surprise to see our cousins Dave and Rob Shanz in Panama. We did at one point sort out how many second's and once removed's we are apart (a lot) - but this was no deterrent to both kids immediately latching on to these two, they seemed to recognize them right away as important members of the family.

Somehow, between the time Gwendolyn met Dave at the hotel door, to when we got in our car at the hotel parking lot, she'd decided that this was someone very special, convincing him to sit in the way, way back of the car with just her (on his part, he kindly and readily allowed himself to be convinced). And then led him by the hand all over Casco Viejo.

Gwendolyn was so attached, in fact, that Simon didn't have his shot until nearly the end of the visit, when he climbed into Dave's arms for his own tickles and hugs.

We did our best to give them a tiny tour around the old city, complete with views across the bay of the new highway (Cinta Costera) and the ever expanding sky scrapers downtown. And then a stop at our favorite  ice cream shop, Gran Clement.

It was also really fun re-meeting Rob (last time I saw him he was six, maybe?!). Yayy for family! And thanks to Aunt Lu for putting it all together :).