Dear Baby Girl,
...As I try to reminisce the year that flashed by on your birthday, I can only think of how excited you are, about your birthday and the double celebrations, that happen with friends and then family in India virtually. I think you are very much like me, in that sense, so excited about your birthday, the excitement, the celebrations and all the adulation! :)
While it is unfortunate that the pandemic situation still continues to exist, I can see how well you have adapted yourself to it, and learnt to enjoy yourself in every way despite it. You wear your masks like a pro, with a smile hidden inside it. I really hope none of us will need a mask anymore when I sit down to write to you next year!
I am so humbled to see your phenomenal growth, especially on an emotional level. You have a clear understanding of acceptance, compassion, kindness and a special ability to always understand when to give me a hug and make me feel all better again! Humility is still lurking around, waiting for you... ha ha ha...there is a sea-change in your demeanor and I feel really proud of you, for evolving and growing into a good human being. Of course, there is a long way to go...
Apart from birthdays and anniversaries, you have taught us to celebrate and revel in the little joys of life. You are such a sweet, loving and expressive child that makes us smile with her loving cards, notes, handmade gifts, and tight hugs for no reason. You look forward to weekends to enjoy a game of Dobble, Uno, Jenga or any other new game that is added to the array. That tradition continues...
You speak so lovingly, patiently to Paati, that really warms my heart. Her heart sings with joy at every tamizh word you speak, every musical note from your voice, and yearns to see your beautiful face with a beaming smile. Your vivid memories of Thatha, and the fun things you did with him in Madras are memories that keep me sane. You are so thoughtful, I am amazed at how you are looking for any signs of sadness or tears when something we watch or eat triggers a memory of my Appa....you quickly run over and give me a hug, or inform S that I am sad or thinking about Thatha....at these times, I wonder who is the mother? We are both longing to see Paatti and our loved ones in person, we will definitely visit India soon...
We share a common love, madness, passion for music. You are perpetually singing loudly, dancing and your energy is infectious. We listen to good music before we sleep too. You are showing more interest in learning music, and I can see that your confidence growing too. Learning will continue...Music is a life-skill that will create a beautiful balance and lend such calmness to your mind. You will know...
When S has F1 on the weekends, you and I, have our own ritual of playing "Jaanu Papa and Aadu Papa". I really enjoy being a baby with you again. You love it so much that you are always checking with Appa for the F1 schedule. I think it's fun coz you get to see a different side of me - carefree, spontaneous, child-like, silly. But I can't always show that side coz it is good to be a balanced parent - disciplined yet fun!
You are obsessed with the water, the beaches, swimming...such a water baby!! I am happy to see you swim and enjoy being in the water, vicarious fun for me. You are such a social being too, I like the role-reversals now when you introduce me to so many people as your mother!!! It was so funny when the other day, a random person I didn't know too well, stopped me to ask if I am your mother? Apparently, my smile matches you..It is the other way round, your smile matches mine! ha ha ha
We want you to grow exponentially, in leaps and bounds in every way possible. Also, have a lot of fun, enjoy life to the fullest and spread happiness and love in abundance, and in every way possible. We have your back, standing right beside you - egging you on, cheering you on, beaming with pride at every little victory-milestone-joys of life, my love. You are truly the love of our lives!
We love you to the moon, and back!
Lots of love and blessings,
Amma and Appa
