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The Joy of Hot Coffee

When we lived in Mountain View, Simon used to spend most Friday afternoons at one of several nearby Starbucks locations visiting with Hava's friends. As soon as he was mobile he crawled, cruised, walked, and then ran through the sitting area. Hava or a friend gave chase and this person was often unable to carry on a conversation for more than 20 seconds. For the past couple of weeks we've been taking Simon to our local Starbucks for "hot coffee" (steamed soy milk) and, instead of strolling outside with our coffee, we sit at a table sipping our drinks, conversing, and watching the world go by. It is during these times when Simon is at his most calm and polite, often asking for a napkin and placing it on his lap, swirling his cup before sipping and exclaiming "ahhh" in imitation of Mommy and Daddy. He sits in his chair and tells us about his life and the life of the people outside the window. When he is finished he slides off the chair, climbs into his stroller, and enjoys the ride home. No one can appreciate these moments as much as us, his weary parents, always trying to be one step ahead and nearly collapsing from exhaustion at the effort.