When our family moved to Manhattan Beach in July 2022, we thought we were coming for the ocean views and sea breeze. We quickly realized that while the beaches and pier are postcard perfect, the real beauty of this place lies in its people. It’s the warm, neighborly spirit, and small-town charm with a city pulse that make this community feel like somewhere you truly want to belong and contribute to.

 We’re the Choffat family: Casper, Ally, Annabel (19), Bo (9), Sam (5), and our sweet dog Lizzy. We carry three passports: Dutch, Canadian, and Swiss, and more stories than our beach chairs can hold. Casper works in Live Broadcasting and Engineering at Netflix, which means our home has seen its fair share of cables, monitors, and the occasional late-night broadcast from the couch. And I spent years as a software entrepreneur and global strategist for Fortune 500 companies before stepping into my favorite role yet, happy mom.

Our daughter Annabel is now a freshman in college in the Netherlands, diving into her own adventures. We’ve reached that bittersweet parenting milestone where you start bribing your teenager to hang out with you again (tips and hugs welcome). Meanwhile, Bo and Sam are thriving here, chasing waves and footballs, living the kind of childhood every parent dreams of giving their kids.
 
 We like to think of our family as a mix of heart, humor, and a little bit of sand in everything. A few things that sum us up:
 - We believe in spreading kindness thicker than peanut butter (pile it on!).
 - We’re big fans of practical solutions to everyday chaos.
 - And in true Dutch Manhattan Beach fashion, we proudly maintain a two-to-one bicycle-to-human ratio.

If there’s one place that captures the true spirit of Manhattan Beach and our magical Hill section, it’s Robinson Elementary. We’re so grateful to bike or walk to school each day, and every time we step through those doors, we feel the warmth, kindness, and connection that make it so special.

The teachers and parents have built a community that extends far beyond drop-off lines and PTSA meetings. Coming from the Netherlands, where schools are smaller, we were instantly drawn to Robinson’s closeness and heart. The way people show up for one another is what makes Robinson and this town so special.

Casper and I both serve on the PTSA, and I’m also part of the Manhattan Beach Education Foundation Wine Auction committee (mark your calendars for June 6, 2026). Both are incredible examples of how our community comes together to make things happen. The energy is contagious, and when everyone shows up, the impact is truly extraordinary.

Our favorite place to start the morning or enjoy a coffee date is Verve Coffee on Manhattan Beach Boulevard. With espresso in the air, kids climbing the red dog sculpture, and friends greeting each other, Verve captures what our town values most: a community grounded and present, right where its two feet are.
 
 We love wandering through town and discovering small businesses that tell their own stories. 
 Driftwood at the Metlox is one of our kids’ favorite stops, a perfect blend of sporty athleisure and coastal lifestyle essentials for all ages. The owners are passionate about supporting local brands, and the kids love popping in to say hi and grab a little treat.

Another gem is Right Tribe, tucked just off Manhattan Beach Boulevard, behind Vuori. It’s more than a shop; it’s an experience. From handmade goods to their commitment to sustainability, it embodies the laid-back artistry of this beach town. The owners radiate warmth and have created a space that feels like stepping into a friend’s creative studio.

And then there’s Brent Estabrook, the internationally renowned artist on 19th Street who turned his home into a vibrant studio. His textured, whimsical work reminds us that joy and creativity are at the heart of community life. Our boys love his colorful characters, and I love how his art reflects the optimism and imagination that define Manhattan Beach.

A community like Manhattan Beach doesn’t just happen; it grows from intention, care, and the kind of warmth that makes people feel instantly welcome. We’ve seen firsthand how the small acts of kindness here, shared smiles, quick hellos, helping hands, are what turn a place into a home.

Thank you, Robinson, for giving us an instant sense of connection and a place to belong. To our friends and neighbors, thank you for welcoming us and showing our kids what true community looks like.

Wishing you all an amazing holiday season and a happy New Year filled with warmth, laughter, health and love. We’re so grateful to call the Hill section, and all of you, part of our story.
 
 Hele fijne feestdagen en een gelukkig en gezond 2026!