Letters from Daddy (Aug-Sept) (#4)

Most mornings when we wake up for school, Tony has already left for work, but these handwritten letters with little drawings are waiting for us on the pillow.  Maiya and I read them together in bed, or if we're running late, we read them on the potty.

Maiya and Daddy on the first day of Kindergarten

8/27/10:
Dear Maiya, I think today will be special.  Why?  Because it is your last day as a preschooler.  You can always go back to visit Nishi, but you are 3 days away from beginning Kindergarten.  It's a German word, Kindergarten. That's another language and country.  Kindergarten means "Kid's garden."  They call the class that because it's where kids grow into beautiful, smart and creative young people.  And I think you're going to grow into a beautiful flower tree.  Strong like a giant tree and beautiful like a flower.  Will you share your fruit with others?  Will your leaves and branches make shade for people and animals on hot days?  Will your trunk be a home to chipmunks?  Will you let kids climb and build a tree house?  Will people wear your beautiful flowers in their hair on special occasions?  Like a wedding.  Will you have a swing on your strong branch arms?  Have a memorable day at Nishi.  Love, Daddy

9/13/10:
Dear Maiya, Good morning sweety.  I wish I could take you to school, but I need to go to school myself.  it's my first day back to work.  Summer vacation is over.  Have a great time today.  I will pick you up in the afternoon.  I'm going to call your name, bend down on one knee and then give you a really, really, really giant, humongous, jumbo super duper big hug.  Okay?  Love, Daddy

9/15/10:
Dear Mai Mai, Oh my gosh!  It's your 12th day of school.  Did you know that 12 is also called a dozen.  Like a dozen eggs are called a dozen eggs.  Here's morning quiz.  What are these things? (Pictured are pencil, eraser, circle, glue and scissors - which she learned the Japanese words for the week's homework).  Mommy, you be the teacher.  Good luck Maiya.  Love, Daddy

9/21/10:
Dear Maiya, When I think about you, I feel happy and good inside.  I'm proud of you.  Love, Daddy T. P.S. Let's do some fun homework tonight.

9/22/10:
Hello Maiya Grace, I am writing with a purple marker.  I heard you read my letter yesterday.  Are you reading this one?  I have a teacher's union meeting tonight.  I'll see you tonight after shower.  I will give you a hug and try to capture you.  Love Daddy.

Photo taken by Daddy T on the school playground the first day of school

There's NaBloPoMo#4.