Turning 45
Dear Appa,
Lately, we’ve been wondering what you were like before you became our Appa.
Learning of your likes, and many more dislikes.
Realizing that you’re not in fact allergic to cucumbers,
and there was a time you didn’t need your morning coffee, nor have your signature Hulk mug in-hand.
Hearing the same old stories of how you once got lost on a field trip to Wonderland and cried,
and the countless stories that end with you crying…usually over french fries.
Finding out what you did for fun before Roblox, from building robots out of blocks
to riding your bike around the block.
And hearing of the traditions you created with your family, and continuing it with ours.
Piecing together who you were back in the day to discover how you became who you are today.
Looking through old photos of you from the age of 5 months, up until 5 months ago.
Picturing you at our age, or a little less aged, is the wildest thing.
And knowing everything you went through – the highs, the lows, and everything in-between
to become the Appa we know and love – and are known and loved by – is an amazing thing.
Because of your stories of celebrating wins and overcoming losses,
we’re learning, realizing, and recognizing that good things take time to grow.
And great things take 45 years.
Today, we’re blessed beyond words to be writing our story together.
Pressing on through the peaks and valleys, reflecting with gratitude and looking forward with hope,
and in the midst of loss or feeling lost, we will always find our way, as a family.
Entering your mid 40s,
with each candle added, we see you becoming better every year.
Our wish is that you’ll choose to see your days as half full,
holding your Hulk mug in one hand
and ours in the other.
Celebrating you today and always, Appa.
Cheers to 45.
ZER