The first part of 2026 has been packed around here. We kicked it off with our annual ski trip, this time to Snowshoe, WV. Tyson keeps getting more confident on skis every year, which is both impressive and occasionally terrifying. But that fear was mitigated this time around with some cool new helmets that allow for walky-talky style communication between us as we ski.
Not long after we got home, indoor drumline season took over our weekends. Tyson spent countless hours practicing, performing, and hauling equipment in and out of high school gyms across Georgia. He had a blast playing the rack (think of it as a standing drumset) and I took way too many photos.
Next up, we squeezed in a trip to Savannah, the highlight of which was taking in a Savannah Bananas baseball game. If you’ve never seen Banana Ball in person, imagine The Harlem Globe trotters on a baseball diamond. Highly entertaining!
Then things took a rough turn when I injured my back and ended up in the hospital. The silver lining was being reminded just how incredible my family is: Amanda proved she’s the world’s best caretaker, while Tyson sprang into action … calling 911, moving cars out of the garage for EMS, and showing a level of calm and maturity you don’t always expect from a 15-year-old. Thankfully, as of this writing, I’m mostly back to normal.
Love the Mother’s Day card Tyson!
Travis, hope the neck injury wasn’t too painful and you’re feeling better soon. I had surgery on my neck back in 2009 so I hope this isn’t a Cook family “defect”.
Thanks for the photos, and yes, you’re doing a great mothering job Amanda!
Mandy mentioned you hurt your back, so glad you’re recuperating well! And the drumline looks so cool, wow! Thanks for keeping us up to date!
Love all of these photos! Uncle Trav, I hope you are feeling better! I love Tyson’s card, very good mothering indeed! LOL.
Well, I can’t decide which photos I like best! I’ve decided the helmet is to protect all that hair that he might have to donate to you someday, Travis. Love ❤️ the photos of the three of you! What’s with the flying hands during drum playing? Love ❤️ it! Definitely in the top five. Then there is the hat; truly rocking it, as well as the walker! But the card? Awesome! But I do believe the hug is number one on my list. Your expression of tolerance is overwhelming! Love ❤️ you guys so much!
Awesome. The Mother’s Day card, sooo funny. Tyson is too cool . Love you all. Keep stretching Trav. I promise it help . Kisses, Aunt Vic