Dear Sushi,

You are turning 9 this month, but most times when I look at you, I still see that little baby that you once were. I still remember your first solids, first laugh, first swim, first steps… all your firsts. I never seemed to have missed any of it.

I was worried when you started talking late, but today you just wouldn’t stop. You can talk about anything from baseball statistics to U.S. Presidents, topics that bore kids. That’s why you love being with grown-ups who know what you’re talking about,

Even if it’s the first time you met them,

And even if you’re the only kid at the table.

You will read anything (that also bores me) - Time magazine and such.

You will read anywhere as long as there’s light - at a concert.

I was afraid you’ll be a nerd (like me), but not after I saw you shoot hoops,

And pitched a baseball at 32mph.

My favourite moments with you are when you are being silly with me,

Chatting in our hikes,

Sharing our birthday ice cream,

Sitting at the back row of the car, even if we both feel carsick, guessing if Roar or Royals made it to the Top20.

You thank me if I make sacrifices, and so you would always give me the best part, or the last piece, of anything. This is up on our wall at home because of you.

Your kind words surprise me, and your hugs for no reason. Oh, the privileges of being your Mom.

It makes me proud when I see you hold the door for the kids in your school. I trust that you will take care of Shoti with the same kindness.

Please don’t ever stop wanting to learn.

Keep on being helpful.

Go on with your reading - whether to a crowd

Or alone, and even until you wear glasses.

Don't be too serious.

Keep playing and enjoy being a kid!

I love you to pieces... to infinity... and beyond....

 XOXO, Mom

“The most terrifying day of your life is the day the first one is born…. Your life, as you know it... is gone, never to return. But they learn how to walk, and they learn how to talk and you want to be with them. And they turn out to be the most delightful people you will ever meet in your life.”
- Lost in Translation, Sofia Coppola