It is a wise parent who gives her children roots and wings.
- Chinese Proverb (from Gutsy Women Marybeth Bond)
I had felt that this trip to New Zealand was a chapter entitled: Trip of a Lifetime. But as we pulled it off and had the best time possible I have come to realize that this chapter will continue to write itself as we have officially given rise to 2 Q boys who LOVE to travel.
Each boy grew tremendously as we traveled. It doesn’t seem possible but we have arrived back home with two very different sons then when we left.
From every airplane seat, car ride, hotel room or house we stayed in, both Q boys adapted easily, were flexible and embraced each new experience as an adventure to enjoy.
So this chapter continues to write itself and with that I want to share some hopes and dreams for these boys to celebrate this first big adventure.
To my Q sons,
May you continue exploring the world and traveling to new places.
May you try to breathe in the forest air as your Dad has taught you (“shinrin-yoku” = forest bathing= who knew?)
May you continue to enjoy nature and appreciate feeding the eels using a spoon.
I hope you remember watching the seal pups play, frolic and jump around each other in the river.
May you continue to explore your home like we explored Riccarton Bush, Castle Hill and Hagley Park (searching for kiwi’s, playing hide and seek amongst the rocks, and stopping to smell the roses).
May you persevere through a lack of naps, long airplane rides or when you don’t get your ice cream dessert.
Connor: May your smile continue to be contagious and lead you down paths of opportunity (particularly monetary paths to earn your keep ‘round here).
Kai: May you always dance like a wild man, have a “good idea”and demand to be listened to; it’s no doubt that these qualities came from me and will lead you to always command attention (and maybe some fame so you can take care of us when we’re old).
May you have wings to fly and roots to ground you and always carry with you a sense of purpose and identity so you can know your true self and be happy and enjoy the moment when you’re in it.
This trip taught us how to go with the flow, be flexible and live in the moment and doing it as a family was the highlight of my trip.
So thank you and cheers little Q boys! I look forward to many more adventures with you!
Love Mom