Boobies, Frigates, and More

Although this title might raise an eyebrow, it is a reference to the famous blue-footed booby. This interesting and comical bird is found primarily in the Galapagos Islands. But we were able to see them off the coast of a beach, relatively close to Quito. (This is from our beach trip in July... I'm a bit late on posting these pictures.)

We took a boat ride with the boys. Jacob was delighted; Timothy liked the idea but was a little less enthused once the small boat started to hit the waves. Their faces capture their enthusiasm.


We traveled into a swamp area where many local fisherman lived. By chance, we were there just as the fish market began.

There we saw pelicans, egrates, fisherkings, frigates, and several other birds.
These photos of the blue-footed boobies speak for themselves. They are beautiful, playful birds.


And true to their reputation of playfulness, this bird continued to hide his face from our eager camera.

All in all a wonderful trip to see more of this gorgeous country.

The Farm

Since our visit several months ago to a local Hacienda and farm, the boys have been raving about the visit. So we decided to go back to “Senor Gabriel’s farm”, also known as Hacienda La Alegria. The boys loved their new "equestrian look".

The boys could not have been more thrilled to be out in nature, close to the animals.
They got to ride horses,

And even a llama. (I really didn’t know that you could ride one.)

Vicunas y alpacas.

We visited a nearby pasture to check out the cows.

I think Timothy particularly liked his entre into the world of British royalty...

The boys loved it, and we'll be back again soon.

Running Through History

We had the great pleasure of taking part in the annual Ruta de las Iglesias, a 10K night run through historic Quito and the beautiful historic churches in this downtown area. It was great to see Quito in all its glory, and see the city energized for this fun tradition.

Consistent with the theme of “losing our baby” we decided it just might be time for Timothy to get his first haircut. It has been 2 years, so it was time.

Both boys went to a hair salon that has special cars for the kids to sit in while they get their hair cut. Jacob cried most of the time. Timothy literally laughed at the clippers that tickled.

Here's before...

During

After

And a little yoghurt drink to celebrate

We now officially have 2 boys. No more babies.

Timothy Turns Two!

I can't believe it but our little baby turned 2 on August 13th! (We celebrated in Bowie 2 days early and in Quito 2 days late, due to travel schedules. Thus the delayed post.)

We have officially "lost" our baby. He is such a big boy, and is truly a bright light in our lives. He delights us daily, and is just a wonderful little person.

In Bowie, he was spoiled by grandparents who plied him and his brother with yummy cake.

The balloons were a big hit,

and the matching vests and backpacks were the best ever. (Fleece lined vests - perfect for Quito - are not the best for 100 degree days in Bowie, they soon discovered. Running full speed around the house didn't help either.)

Timothy - reluctant to let go of his one year designation - insists on showing his age by raising two index fingers. Jacob continues to be annoyed at his brother's lack of conformity to traditional expression of age. Ah...to have such problems.

In Quito, we celebrated by taking a hike on an old trail through the valleys below Quito.

That was followed by burgers and corn, and chocolate cake …

horns...


blowing out candles...


and more trains, blocks, and trucks.

We are so blessed that this little person has been in our lives for two short years, and can't wait to continue to watch him grow.