Long overdue

Dear Vince,

This letter is long overdue. It's been sometime since my last one but I know you understand. You've seen how mad our daily activities had been from the time we prepared for our move here to this day as we try to settle in this new place.

If there's one who has been most affected by all this, that should be you. I know it was tough being uprooted from our pretty little community in the boondocks, leaving a school you have begun to love and family who adore you so much. But like a real trooper, you have kept pace with Papa and me. The whole month of May that we were always moving about, packing and unpacking, visiting family and friends, spending late nights, waking up early to prepare for yet another activity may have taken it's toll on your very young body but you kept everything in good stride. I even think you were at your happiest. And I know exactly why. You were loving every moment that both Papa and Mama were around.

You will probably not remember any of this but you have grown more mature than other boys your age. From the time we left our home in Pinas, you must have understood that there's just the three of us now and I think you have made a decision to make it easier for Papa and me. You were a picture of maturity at the airport, carrying your backpack and pulling around your trolly, always giving me a smile and the thumbs up when I check how you were doing. People couldn't help but smile when looking at you.

I am happy to say that you have adjusted well to life in Australia. You are now starting pre-school and you seem to enjoy it. You are also slowly picking up the accent! haha But of course, you still speak your native tongue very well.

Because there's no more Yaya Maymay to follow you around, you have learned to fend for yourself, from taking a bath, to going to the toilet, eating on your own, choosing and putting on your clothes. Sometimes, though, Mama misses it that you need her to help you out. You have learned to be independent but mama is the one suffering from separation anxiety. Haha!

It is our prayer that you will remain to be level-headed, obedient, kind, polite and loving even when you grow old. We are proud of you, son and we love you very much.