Dear Kien,

Your smile is truly contagious — you light up the whole room the moment you walk in. I love how you take a moment each morning to scan the room before deciding what to do or where to go — it always makes me smile.

The first few days were a little tough as you adjusted, but now you seem to be getting along so well with your teachers and friends. I sometimes see you lounging on the sitting pad with the other kids — it’s such a sweet sight.

Keep smiling, Kien. Your smile brings joy to everyone around you, so never stop sharing it — and don’t let anything take that beautiful smile away.

With love,

Dada

Dear Kien,

This photo was taken 3 days before Mama passed.  On that day we renewed our vows through a Catholic wedding; something Mama had always wanted to do but we never got a chance to.  Everything happened very fast and last minute.  It was during the day so your brother, Kiet, was at the daycare.

It was the last time Mama was strong enough to sit up right and alert to hold you.  Her health declined quickly after this.

I am sorry for everything Kien.

My 8 weeks leave had finally came to an end. It had been an eventful 8 weeks taking of you and your older brother Kiệt. You were born on 12/6/23 at 4.23pm with a weight of 7lb2.3oz. You are one happy and healthy baby except when you’re hungry, but all babies are like that.

In Vietnamese, your name, Kiên, means ‘strong’ and/or ‘patient’. You were born during a somewhat challenging time. Perhaps I’ll tell you when you are older. 

In the coming weeks and months, you might find yourself having to cry a bit longer and harder before I can get to you. I can only try my best but your brother is not old enough to care for himself at the moment. I promise that we all will get through this period. The night is darkest before dawn, but I am hopeful each day passes us as we’ve been blessed with kindness from everyone around us including strangers that I’ve never met. So to my dear Kiên, be strong and be patient as we navigating our ways out. Hardship builds characters and will well prepare you for the future. Don’t give up!