Infatuation

We've had a lot of really fun days lately.  The weather has been gorgeous, identical to the feel of Santa Monica. We spent as much time as possible at a playground, the shore, or strollin' around town.  (Highlight) I watched my children dance their hearts out, without a care who was watching, to the man playing Raffi at the Farmer's Market.  Found apples sweet as candy.  Carried sleeping children from their beds to the beach to watch the sunrise.  Tailgate party.  Dabbled in potty-training.  Played with chalk. Visited the Botanic Gardens.  Found winter coats and made Halloween costumes.  Discovered a wonderful pediatrician.

Dustinn asked me today why I am so "infatuated" with Chicago.

I don't know if that's quite it.
(And the jury's still out on whether I'll survive Chicago winter.)

Chicago is fun.  With plenty of things to do.
But that's not the reason.

We see Dustinn more than we did when he was in management consulting.
But that's not the reason either.

The reason is nothing profound.
Each area we've lived in has had it's own unique culture and activities.  Each area has blessed our family in different ways and we've made wonderful friends.  So I'm excited for our Chicago opportunity!
And with the threat of a cold winter looming over our heads, we've immersed ourselves and have really gained a love for these streets we call home.

Pictures from the weekend:

Olivia starts hyperventilating with excitement as soon as the beach is in sight.
She protested me holding her back to get her swimsuit on.
Once she was free, she beelined it for the water and didn't slow as her knees,
then waist, then shoulders were under and she would've kept going
but we scooped her up and returned the fearless miss to dry land. 

exuberant "hi" to some strangers

Good, clean fun

Started out as a plane; became a fancy home.  Bradshaw is pointing out
where his garage is "and my fire hydrant--yellow top, red body, white arms!"