Elliot's Birds

Elliot and I played at Mission Bay today. We found a nice spot of green grass to claim for ourselves just along Ski Beach. I popped a squat while Elliot patiently followed the birds, all which gathered a safe distance from me as I held Elliot's cheesy Goldfish crackers in the palm of my hand. It was fun to observe because Elliot didn't "chase" them as a toddler a bit older than he would. He moved at the steady pace he now confidently uses to get everywhere. He smiled as he toddled towards one bird, and the bird would slowly walk away until Elliot turned his attention to the next closest foul.

If he had the words, he would have asked for a jet ski today. His eyes were glued to each one that passed.

In our apartment complex, we use an elevator to get down to the parking garage. As we approach the elevator, he now reaches to press the button and then pounds on the double doors as he waits for them to open and carry him up/down. Within the elevator, he repeats this drill. The problem is he is capable of reaching only one button, the emergency bell. For this reason, I'm sure there are a few tenants not thrilled to hear a periodic ring when Elliot rides the elevator.

Rocky en Espanol

I'm sure it comes as no surprise to you that here in San Diego (just north of the border), we have several television stations in Spanish. I am writing to tell you that you have not seen Rocky Balboa in his full glory until you have seen the Spanish-speaking Rocky plead with Adrienne in an emotionally-stirring scene.

I have noticed that on any given day at the playground you may hear five different languages over the course of an hour. Yesterday in Pilates I met a women from Yugoslavia, Canada, and Japan. At the grocery store, the friendly cashier was from Russia until a few years ago. A woman posting a sign on the bulletin board this morning was from England initially, but she now calls this home after 16 years. Even the aisles of the grocery store seem to more ethnic than other places I have lived, and I am so excited to benefit from such exposure to the world around me...all in San Diego.

Apple is my favorite fruit

Elliot and I made our way to the mall today to pick up our new computer, a MAC made by Apple. We love being connected again, even when George (and his computer) aren't around! Once I figure out the new photoshop and video scene, a lot of pics will be headed your way!

California Dreamin'

We have been enjoying sunny California for a week now and continue to pinch ourselves that the "vacation" doesn't have to end! Elliot, George, and I have strolled neighborhoods in Del Mar, La Jolla, Coronado, and University Towne Centre. If only we could take up residence in the Hotel del Coronado, life would be too perfect! We are scouting out our next place to live for when we leave corporate housing. Our home in Tennessee has not sold yet, so we are in no hurry.

Elliot is not too fond of the sand between his toes...something to which he will have to become accustomed if he is to ever be a true surfer! I'm hoping to join a "Surfer Moms" group after taking a couple lessons. They meet on the beach once a week to surf together.

Elliot stayed in the church nursery for the first time last Sunday and loved it (In Tennessee children had to be a year old before the nursery was an option). I couldn't decide if I was grateful or hurt that he suffers from no separation anxiety. I decided to go with grateful! When I picked him up, there was a sticker on his back declaring, "I have been changed!" Wouldn't it be great if everyone left church wearing this proclamation...particularly if it didn't refer to diaper status?

Our first visitors from the Far East will arrive next month...Mimi and Shannon are coming this way for a week of play with Maddy in tow. We are looking forward to it. Who will be next??

Love, joy and peace to all,
Dani

The Anniversary of Elliot's Arrival Approaches

As Elliot's first birthday approaches, I thought it would be fun to share a glimpse of his first moments at Baptist Hospital in Nashville, TN (don't worry...totally non-graphic). A special thanks to our videographer, Jen Broad.

The Hamptons Go West

On Sunday, September 16, 2007, the Hampton family will claim the west coast! Elliot has decided to pursue a career as a professional surfer, so we thought we should seek out some waves. On our final week in Nashville, Elliot has savored his time with friend Joseph Broad. The attached clip shares a glimpse of their time together.

Love, joy and peace to all!