Time has certainly passed by quite at the speed that I did not expect nor anticipate. Then again, life in general is pretty much a mystery anyway; one that keeps you guessing all the time, isn’t it?

Thus far, it has been good to me – in every way possible. I mean, I could never ask for anything more for sure and if indeed, I have more, they are life’s little many splendid and wonderful surprises.

To celebrate the end and usher in the new, Gnat, Ash and I packed our overnight luggage and headed downtown for some fireworks action. We got some shots from our hotel bedroom window but it isn’t great. Actually, not exactly what I had pictured in my mind when I examined the taken shots. It was then that I realised I’ve made a rookie mistake (one of many that will serve as a valuable lesson to me) – we shouldn’t have done it in from the bedroom window!

However, under the circumstances (Ash was fast alseep by 10pm and the fireworks only came on at the stroke of midnight), we had no other choice. And it wasn’t a fair deal to hubby if he’d have to walk a couple of blocks by himself just so we could have the perfect images. Plus, we were a lazy lot. So you see, there are 2 lessons here : 1) pick a suitable shooting location and 2) do not be lazy.

On the whole, the mini celebration we had was indeed enjoyable. The place we booked ourselves into was absolutely divine (even if it was just for one night). I was more delighted at the fact that Ash enjoyed herself the minute she dived onto the gigantum bed with her shoes still on her and inspite that she was exhausted for most of our little excursion.

I could never really get over the look she had on her face; that innocent expressions of joy and excitement for the last 24 hours. I think, it’s the best thing that you can ever take with you as a mom. I know I may come off as weird or even super weird but I really want her to enjoy this phase of her life the fullest. I mean, if I could some how slow time down so that she could soak it all in, every ounce of it till she’s ready and willing to give it all up wholeheartedly, I would. I feel, it’s the best time in someone’s life to be so free, so bold and so self-assured.

And I am glad I was there to witness that — as her mom.