As a stepmother, I collect special moments with the children so that when they go out into the world, life sparks a memory of me. It is similar to rediscovering a classic candy in your 30s that brings you back intuitively to childhood memories. I want to be that candy.
I am blessed to be the stand-in mom for my stepchildren as we create milestones in growing up. To ride the bike for the first time, to teach them how to roller blade, to be their driving instructor, to apply for their first adult ID, to travel the world for the very time.
First-time travel is a very special moment. It was tricky for me as I cannot bring the kids out of the country as consent of the biological mom is needed. As they turned 18, one of the orders of the day was to finally travel the world.
Last February, I was down to the last child. We traveled to Tokyo.
When all travel plans were sealed, I watched her immerse herself in social media researching on what to wear, what to eat, what to do in Japan. As this child is fond of fashion, I saw her turn her closet upside-down and find the almost-good-for-winter clothing. I watched her don OOTDs. She cannot surmise how those thick and heat tech clothes can actually be fashion-friendly.
I always look forward to the time when each child steps out of the plane in international borders. It is in this moment that I capture the excitement and enthrallment in their eyes. I am equally fascinated with their fascination as they try to keep the giddy smiles to themselves. It is the same this time. She breathlessly makes her way to the the plane exit. She has the same look of anticipation. Only this time, she instructs me to take her ‘arrival video.’
I watch her as she walks through the Narita airport, stepping on the walkalator, taking it all in —-the absence of a familiar language, chilly air, Japanese characters serving as guideposts, technologically advanced restrooms, orderly queues for everything in the airport and her first-ever passport stamp. I sigh in satisfaction. I also take it all in —— the nuances of bewilderment, excitement and wavering confidence in her as a neophyte traveler. Nothing beats bearing witness to the fresh emotions of your child to a new and beautiful experience.
Ginza and Shibuya beckons. Ichiran Ramen awaits.
There’s a whole world out there for you, my child.