Happy Halloween!

Ducky and other toys

Susannah has become quite interested in toys lately. One of them has various colorful things to grab (and chew on) and keeps her occupied for long periods of time. Mobiles are good too, but she doesn't like being on her back for very long, so this is only for short stretches. Another good one is an old coffee can that we filled with a few beans that makes a lot of noise when you shake it. Her favorite toy with a face is a funny-looking stuffed duck that happens to be holding a butterfly (hereafter referred to as "Ducky"). Ducky keeps her company in the swing that we keep in the kitchen so that we can cook and clean up with her nearby. Susannah gets very excited every time she sees Ducky, but eventually ends up chewing on her. We also have a stuffed Chipmunk to keep her company in the carseat, but she doesn't get as excited about Chippy.

In the Navy!

Charmed by the nautical style of Susannah's red and white striped sweater, it only seemed appropriate that we choreograph a dance for her to "In the Navy" by the Village People. Enjoy!

Aunt Anna comes to San Francisco

Last week Anna (Charlotte's sister) flew out from her home in Virginia to visit us. Rather than have her fly all the way across the country only to sit around in our apartment, we did our best to see the sights, with Susannah in tow. We managed to get out to see Coit Tower and North Beach, Golden Gate park (not so hard since it's only a half block away), the Presidio, Haight-Ashbury, the Golden Gate bridge, and Sonoma wine country. We went to the Ravenswood winery (www.ravenswood-wine.com) - they have some really nice wines, particularly Zinfandel. The grounds at Ravenswood are pretty, with a nice little shaded patio for relaxing, which is what we did after tasting several wines. To top off the visit, Anna cooked for us (thanks, Anna!). Alas, the fun came to an end when Susannah had some vaccine shots just before Anna left. She had a mild reaction which made her very unhappy for a couple of days. So, Anna, be glad you left when you did. Luckily, she's feeling better now. The pictures (from top to bottom) are: Anna and Susannah at home, Stowe Lake in Golden Gate Park, the Ravenswood tasting room, the patio at Ravenswood, and Susannah being cute.