Chloe Juliet was born on September 16 in Austin, Texas. Chloe is my first grandchild. Her mom Rachel graduated from Abington Friends in 2000 and is now teaching in Austin. Both grandmothers are teachers. Her dad Jesse is an architect as are her two grandfathers. I'm sharing this background to help provide the context for the rich conversations Chloe has been listening to during these first days of her life. Debates about architectural philosophy, conversations about books, music, art and baby development. Of course, there are plenty of opportunities for sweet talking to Chloe also. She loves being read to and was especially engaged in Runaway Bunny by Margaret Wise Brown. All of this early exposure to the cadence and rhythm of language will help to develop her vocabulary and love of responding to and expressing language herself. She also by the way, loves listening to music, whether its her dad playing the guitar or the rich sounds of classical music. She is looking forward to her Aunt Emily's visit (AFS grad 2006) and listening to her playing violin. Her Uncle Eric (AFS grad 1998) and Aunt Diana will further her love for film and design. Seize the opportunity with all of your young babies and children to engage in play, lots of hugs, and to also expose them to rich language and discourse. Most of all, of course:enjoy this precious time. I know I am.
