I woke up to find the morning news being shot right behind my boat. They do this periodically so I guess they like my view too.

I woke up this morning to the gentle sound of rain landing on the boat. While enjoying the soothing noise, I rolled over and reached for my phone. Then I saw it, the news I have been waiting for over the past few weeks. The text message read like this, “It’s a boy 10 lbs 8 oz huge and adorable!! Collin ” My heart rejoiced! My beautiful little sister is safe and precious baby Collin has arrived! There could be no better way to start my birthday weekend. Born one day before my birthday and just after Thanksgiving, I envision Collin and I celebrating birthdays together for many years to come Stepping out of the boat and onto the dock, I looked up and saw a full rainbow, a rare sight for San Diego, come out to commemorate Collin’s birth. Welcome to the world little guy! I haven’t even seen your face yet but I love you and can’t wait to hold you in my arms! We are going to be buddies…

Just in case you are still wondering why in the world I would want to live on a sailboat, this was my view when I woke up the other morning. The clouds resting atop of San Diego’s downtown buildings first captured my attention. The penetrating rays from the sunrise burnt through the clouds so that part of the buildings were illuminated and part hidden. When I awake it is common to see pelicans, cormorants or other sea birds around the boat. The other day a seal dove right beside me. This is my place with a view.

It all started three years ago when I flew from Alaska down to San Diego to visit both the city and Bethel Seminary for potential studies. Since I was carless, I rented a bike and took a 26 mile ride that took me all over the city. One of my destinations was Cabrillo National Monument where I got my first good overlook of the city, its layout and the beautiful San Diego Bay. On my way up to Cabrillo National Monument, I stopped at an overlook to gaze out at the ocean.