In the grand scheme of life, it’s important to acknowledge the people and places that have gotten us where we are today. Here are just a few.
Anime Expo: I met up with some friends from Anime Expo. It’s always a blessing to see Kai on his best behavior. Rodeo 39 seems to bring out the best in him, and he particularly liked walking around the arcade section. Though I’m certainly not a weeb by any means, the spirit of Anime continues to live in and will run through Kai as he defeats all future villains.
Rancho Alamitos High School: I had brunch with some friends from high school. It’s nice hearing perspectives on parenting from a seasoned pro who has weathered through all the early phases of toddlerhood. Hope to seek more advice from her soon as Kai continues growing and experiencing new phases of his life. The inner-“Vaquero” will guide Kai to break the wild horse that is his father.
Fairmont Summer Programs: A summer isn’t complete without a visit to Fairmont! And quite literally the best boss I’ve ever had, whose kids are now brooding teenagers. Hope Kai will get to enjoy some summer camp experiences in the future (if we can afford it, of course). The inner camper inside Kai appreciates his honorary camper shirt.
Rise Kohyang Middle School: Of course, traumatic experiences continue to shape and bring the best of people together. Now located all at different schools, we continue to shape the lives of our students using all the wonderful skills we acquired from Bright Star. Kai channeled his inner-Bright Star, shining a light of kindness, joy, and serenity to everybody he came into contact with, including of course the children of my wedding DJ.
Katherine Pham: Of course, where would Kai be without his mother? Nowhere, of course. I hope he continues to appreciate her as he gets older. I’ll make sure of it. He will channel his inner-Tran, but also his inner-Pham, as he continues to spread his big forehead, patience, and embrace his Italian heritage through visits to the most authentic Italian restaurant of them all – the Olive Garden.
