Sunlight generously marinated the sandy seaside as Chris came down to his knees; tenderly bringing his ear to Erica’s budding belly he intently listened for his son’s comforting patters. Behind this thin wall was Daddy’s boy, a soon-to-be darling companion who would be taught the ways of the waves and the feel of the gritty sand between his toes. He will come to discover the significance that his mommy and daddy hold for brightly beaming coastlines and sooner-than-later will fit into his “first San Diego t-shirt”.
Chris and Erica were born and raised in sunny California and remarkably brought home from the hospital to the same complex. Growing up they attended the same schools and shared a love for the surf, adoration and respect for the crashing swells of the Pacific Ocean. But even I, who was raised in radiant South Florida, can relate with their delight in having pink sun-kissed shoulders and that natural tendency to sway with upbeat reggae fusions.
This beautiful family stretched their sea legs and had no qualms about being caked in sand or doused in salty seawater. That carefree Cali nature graced their faces with nothing but smiles to be spending a [steamy] morning partaking in one of their favorite pastimes. They flirted and played in the waves, freely splashing at one another as little Gavin was ever present, nestled between them ready to make his debut.
Stunning Erica has this laid-back, charming demeanor that reels you in. It was evident as we instructed her along the nearly deserted beach and observed her newly brewing maternal instinct. She was already in love with her son, you just needed to watch the manner in which her hands stayed glued to her belly, always soothing and encouraging.
Without much coaxing Erica further connected with her humbling surroundings as she swiftly closed her eyes and relaxed on Chris’s surfboard, allowing the sound of the deep-sea to guide her home. In profound thought I had imagined her visualizing the way dynamic California beaches felt on her skin, in her hair and under her toes. She held us engrossed with her serenity and a glance over our shoulders revealed that Chris too was entranced.
Young, in love and awaiting the arrival of their first baby Chris and Erica wholeheartedly beckoned us into their world. Their love is truly a wonderful product of fate, having evolved over the years in the same social circles. Now baking a new life on the eastern coast apart from a majority of friends and family, these two inspired us with their courageous and spirited character.
Many congratulations to you and your families, Chris and Erica! We will be eagerly awaiting Gavin’s arrival and the chance to properly introduce ourselves to him.
For even more images of Chris and Erica please be sure to visit their Facebook album here. Your feedback is greatly appreciated!
Erica & Chris make the cutest couple. GREAT PICTURES!!! Loved them all.