Dear Nephew,
February has always felt as the longest month of the year. This is ironic because it isn't a mathematical truth. When I think of February, images of long freezing snowy nights come to mind, instead of the typical short days the month actually brings. You arrived at its tail end, on the magical 28th day. Had you been born one day later, your birthdate would have become an Olympic or World Cup type celebration.
I discovered how long February was when I studied in Massachusetts for ten happy years. Colleges run full time during that interminable February New England month. The snow accumulates and the thermometer plays devastatingly diminuendo games.
But then you were born. Five years ago to the date. On Feb 28, 2006, with your big blue eyes and your perfectly pouted mouth, you honored me for my first time with the title of Khaleh! I am your maternal aunt, the only one you have since you don't have paternal ones. I will try to live to earn the title as best as I can.
Since you have been around, February has never been the same. I have since left New England, my children have February vacations in Dubai like you do since you are all in the French system, and there has always been Valentine's day midway to celebrate. Your cousin was born a year ago on February 7th, and so we now have many joyful reasons to pepper up our "longest month".
But then again, who I am to tell you....You of all people, would know everything about February's climate as a native New Yorker.
I wish for you, in a fairy godmother sort of way, sunnier days in college. How does Stanford University, your mom's alma matter, sound?
I remember my father in law asking my children about their names,since he had 23 grandchildren and around 10 great granchildren by the time he passed away.Of course he was playing a game with them,trying to confuse them,and get them to giggle back at him:Jiddoooooo!
ReplyDeleteThis February,I am blessed with having 8 grandchildren with one provisio:one grand daughter!The birthday boy in NYC is so blonde,and she is so dark,and they play so beautifully together when they meet on rare family reuninons.He is short fused while she is dominating,so it is a hilarious comedy watching them play.
To our 5 year old,celebrating today so far away:A very happy birthday,may you fullfil all your dreams come true,and as a big brother have a great party with baby Z.
to the thoughtful pink taxi blogger-who is so caring and always remembers and includes everyone.
ReplyDeleteto the thoughtful pink taxi blogger-who genuinely cares and contributes to the lives of all of her family and friends.
thank you pink taxi blogger for being who you are and adding to all of our lives in so many ways!
To the sweetest boy in the whole wide world! We wish you a very happy 5th Birthday! We love you so much.
ReplyDeleteKhaleh Nissreen, Dai Croco, and little cousin Saad