Still beautiful, still my favorite person, still the one I want to annoy for the rest of my life. Somehow you keep getting more beautiful every year, which feels a little unfair, but I’m certainly not complaining.
Thank you for everything you do for us. For loving us, caring for us, and carrying so much of this little family every day. There’s so much involved in looking after a family that doesn’t fit neatly into a birthday thank-you. The things that need doing, the things that need remembering, the care that goes into a day before anyone else even notices.
I know a birthday post isn’t much of a repayment for all that. But I want you to know that I see how much you give, and I’m grateful. Kinanti is so lucky to have you. And honestly, so am I.
This parenting thing has been fun, exhausting, chaotic, and sometimes completely confusing. We’re figuring out how to raise a little person while she’s busy figuring out the world. There’s a lot to learn, and we don’t always have the answers. I’m so grateful I get to figure it all out with you.
I love the little life we’re making together. Our walks to the cafés near home. Kinanti finishing her milk along the way, stopping to greet dogs and chickens, picking dandelions, or turning the edge of a drain into her own little Ninja Warrior course. A short walk can take quite a while when there’s that much important business to attend to.
Then there are trips to a nearby trail, a hike to waterfall, an aquarium in Jakarta, or somewhere new to eat. Sometimes the restaurant is worth the trip. Sometimes we learn that a convincing social media post doesn’t necessarily make a good lunch. Even the disappointing lunches give us something to laugh about afterward.
You know how easily I get distracted by a map. I’ll look up one place and end up planning a whole trip for the three of us. But I’ve also grown very fond of these familiar walks and small outings. I like that we can have a good day together without going very far.
I love you more now, after getting to know what life together actually looks like. Some days we’re having fun, some days we’re tired, and sometimes we’re both confused about what Kinanti wants. I’m happy I married you. That sounds obvious in a birthday post for my wife, but I really am.
You’re still the person I want to make plans with, laugh with, and bother with whatever random thought has just entered my head.
And as much as I love watching you be Kinanti’s mother, I love you, Dwi. Your birthday is a chance to say that a little more loudly. I hope this next year gives you plenty to look forward to, time for the things you enjoy, and as much care as you give us.
I love you so much, darling. There’s still so much I want to do with you and Kinanti. For now, you’re stuck with me, my excessive trip planning, and my questionable restaurant choices.
Happy birthday. Here’s to another year of our little family, and a lifetime of me annoying you.
