16 years old! ( now 19!)

(Stayed in draft mode until September 2023)

Dear my first-born, 

In 2020 , you turned 16! a new decade, a unique year to experience. 

We are very much gratified of the person that you have become. Thanks so much for the life lessons and all the firsts that we've shared together.  

Thank you for forgiving us along the journey , oftentimes, I acted like the guru in this relationship but realized later in life that you are actually the teacher - you are living a life that you should own, and while I will be your guide, I cannot live your life.  I want you to own it! All the decisions, mistakes, victories, outcomes, joys, every single moment is Yours to make! 

My hopes for you is a strong mind and heart to endure the future. To approach life with kindness and courage.  The future is bright for you, my love. And I will be here, call on me when you need me.

Fast forward 2023! phew!

So you already celebrated 18th last year, and 19 this year, how fast was that! The last of your 'teen' years-- a more mature person is sprouting -- perhaps?

And you , in your implusive ways wanted to make today memorable with your 'sip and paint' party , and we are totally onboard!  

 In awe of this sunset making its grand entrance!

11 September 2023

Cheyenne turned 19

 Well, I've been afraid of changin'
'Cause I've built my life around you
But time makes you bolder, Even children get older
And I'm getting older too..Oh! I'm getting older too  ( lyrics from Landslide)

Dear Mom and Dad

 ( Kylene's persuasive writing project at school)

At the edge of Wester Australia, lies a beautiful reef known as Turqouise Bay or Ningaloo reef that we should go to. The crystal clear water will leave you speechless. It has spectacular views, fantastic climate and amazing animals.  How would you feel if you were gazing upon a majestic bay as if you were in a fantasy world?

Fistly,  I believe that you will be gobsmacked by the breathtaking view of Turqouise Bay. I know both of you very well , and Dad, I knew that you love to take photos of beautiful places, Turqouise Bay is just one example of a fantastic reef. Mom, I know you like people taking photo of you while you are in front of an astonishing place. How about we go there so you will be able to tell all your facebook friends?

Another reason why you must take us to Turqouise Bay is because of the fantastic climate there.  I know both of you hate the cold and will do anything to escape it, well, lucky for you , I have the perfect place we could go to. In Turquoise Bay, the average is 30 degrees celsius, the max is actually 36. So how about we drive there next winter?

Lasty , I believe that once you are at Turqouise Bay, you will definitely sign up to swim with the huge whale sharks!You know it would be  great opportunity to swim with the whole family.  Mom, I know you love the ocean and like whales. This is definitely a reason why we should go to Turqouise Bay.

You may say we cannot go to Turqouise Bay just because you can't swim and might drown but guess what? I promise you there will be life jackets for you, making it way easier to see the specatular animals swimming by when we go snorkelling.  Please, you must understand that I am desperate to go. Come on now, let's go!

In conclusion, it is clear that we must go to Turqouise Bay for the following reasons; fantastic views, perfect climateand super cool animals. Right now, in this moment, you have the decisions in your hands. Can we go to Turqouise Bay or not?

Love you heaps, 

Kylene Baquial ( 10 years old)