life with a toddler: what would you like to be when you grow up? 

That question is probably one of the most common question a parent would ask their toddlers. And most often than not, any answer illicited from the toddler gives the parents immense joy, even if it’s just for fun; after all, the child have no idea of other existing professions. 

Like any other parent, of course we have our dreams and aspirations for Yui. But we’ve always thought that we were not the type of parents who’d ask Yui the captioned question. Not until one evening. 

We were then looking at a hair conditioner  bottle we bought in our recent trip in the Phillipiness (hotel amenities just ain’t enough for my hair). 

Yui: nani? (What’s this?)

Me: it’s a photo of celebrities, in the Philippines. 

Just for the fun of it, I then threw her the question.

Me: Would you like to be a celebrity?

A strong head shake from Yui. Again Just for the fun of it, I asked Yui the outrageous. 

Me: would you like to be Japan’s Prime Minister?

Yui: Hai! (Coupled with a definitive nod) 

Daddy and Mommy had a good hearty laugh. 

Er, Anak, Mommy’s not sure she can handle that. 

Yui sketch by Daddy. 

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baby diaries: I can only be thankful

Since Daddy had to be in a teleconference with colleagues half a world away and hence had to stay at the office at midnight owing to the time difference, it was only you and me at dinner this evening. 

Every night, Mommy relies on Daddy’s help in looking out for you so that I can do the daily house chores. But this evening, it was amazing how I wasn’t stressed at all even when I had to do everything by myself. I even finished ALL tasks and hour earlier! The reason? The sensitive you who must have sensed that this evening is different was very cooperative; you did all our evening rituals with just one word from me whereas usually it takes a quarter of one hour just to make you  go to bath. You even took your medicine which you refused to take for a week now. 
What really amazed me was how you respected Mommy’s “me time” by waiting patiently outside the bathroom door. We took bath together and as usual, I got you dressed in your pajamas ahead and afterwich, I continued taking shower. As is our habit, you closed the outside powder room door when you got out. Of course I hurried with my nightly regimes as fast as I can, albeit I’m quite sure that the fast for me might be too long for you especially since you’ll be out alone. But you gave me space and kept the door closed. When I opened the powder room door, there you were waiting, holding your beloved blankie which your Ninang Dhonna gave you. 

No clamouring for attention, no tantrums, right at the time when I needed your help the most. Our bedtime prayer this evening had been special too, as I felt God’s assurance in holding you by the hand as you grow up. 

Thank you my dear anak, I can only be thankful to God for you. Mommy is so much blessed. Grow up well.