One morning in June of 2007, I announced that I was pregnant. I’ve never really thought it to be possible (because I’m such a spoiled brat and was incapable of taking care of another person most especially a baby) until I blurted the words — “Hon, you’re going to be father!!!”. Needless to say, the family was ecstatic. Wow, their baby is having a baby!
In the next months, my hubby, Diony obsessed over us. Surrendering to almost all of our whims — almost because he missed a la paz batchoy request which brought me to tears, literally. It was a fairly easy pregnancy until it was time to give birth. I was brought to the ICU as a precautionary measure because I have epilepsy plus despite my aches and labor pains, her heartbeat remained faint and calm. But in the end, everything turned out perfectly — I gave birth through normal delivery to a perfect and extremely hairy beautiful baby girl! We named her Dion Akia.
The first year happened so fast. I was nursing Akia and juggling work at the same time. She was a very good girl even as a baby. She hardly cried, complained and she was just generally cheerful and happy about everything. I think she got that from her Dad. Doctor’s visits were a breeze and road trips were a treat. We celebrated her first year of life and she walked on the same day. The journey continued and this time, she took an active role.
As early as 2, she was exposed to the world. A trip to Disney HK and Anaheim wouldn’t have been as enjoyable if it weren’t for her. At Universal Studios she met in mascot her cousins, Dora and Diego. Her Dad took her to San Diego Zoo and was unafraid to pet the animals — she got that from her Lolo Guy. Back in the Philippines, she went to Ocean Park, Ocean Adventure and Zoobic. Until now she would talk about these trips. It was amazing to hear her talk about things and moments she remembered! So we all decided, she’s ready for school.
She turned three and embraced formal education. On her first day of school, she said, “Bye Mom and Dad! I love you guys!” and walked away. I cried — like any other kid on first day of school. Soon after she talked endless about Teacher Kat, her classmates and her best bud, Sabrina. She started reading at home with the help of her very own private tutor, her Lola Fe. Her mini-library was all over her room’s floor and she frequented a local bookstore — yes, she liked reading…A LOT. She got that from her Dad.
Akia turns 4 in a few months and I’ve been obsessing about her birthday party, much like her 3 other birthday parties. She’s growing up so fast and soon all these efforts would seem obligatory — things any Mom would do. As if almost on cue, her Nongong (my bestfriend and her godfather) told me to create a blog. Of course! What better gift to give my little girl but a documentation of memories! So to my dear Akia, I dedicate luckyredboots to you. Let each entry be a gift of love. I love you always!
Lucky Red Boots 
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