Dallas: part 1

I stepped out of the airport and located Betsy's car. Based on the use of first-person singular in her text messages, I assumed Betsy had come alone, but there turned out to be two Baldwins in the car. 9-year-old Lelia stepped out onto the curb and gave me a hearty hug around my waist. She bounced with excitement. I was glad to see her too. 

Betsy, Lelia, me, and Everly at the Dallas Children's Theater.
The girls decided to make funny faces!

A few minutes of highways and stoplights later, we arrived at a public park. 12-year-old Everly was just finishing up the week's discussion with her book club. I got a hug from her, and then we compared outfits. Everly had worn her NASA shirt for me; I had worn a dress with marine animals on it for her. We found the girls' father and Betsy's husband, Zac, in the park, and the gang was all together! Four Baldwins and one Meyer-Kaiser. Total count: 5 nerds. 

I adore the Baldwins, and it's pretty clear the feeling is mutual. The two daughters, Every and Lelia, look up to me, and the parents, Betsy and Zac, are glad to have a positive role model for their girls. Now that the family lives in Dallas, we seized the opportunity to spend some time together while I was in town for a WHOI event. 

We played Ocean Bingo and traded facts about underwater creatures. We built Lego castles and obstacle courses for marbles. We played with Everly's pet rabbit and took the family's dog on walks. We saw a production of James and the Giant Peach at the Dallas Children's Theater. It was absolutely lovely. 

I am grateful that I got to spend time with the Baldwins again. Guys, I look forward to seeing you again soon!