FOR THOSE WHO’VE WRITTEN asking for updates on the Insta-Wife, you can see that she’s doing better. She’s been swimming in the ocean and the pool, and generally having a good time. The recovery isn’t complete, but it’s come a long way (compare this photo), and we’re grateful.

We do these beach trips most summers: A big house with a lot of family members — 16 this time, including my brother’s Nigerian father-in-law, who’s on an extended visit to the states. (He likes the beach, which reminds him of River State where he grew up).

I really enjoy the trips, and it’s fun to see all the cousins playing and hanging out together. I’m a big believer in the old-fashioned extended family, and it’s easy to see the benefits, especially for the kids.