The sun rises, the sun sets. A day goes by and then another. As parents, we mark the time by their smiles. And sometimes, by their tears as well.
Today, I spent hours on the road driving. My thoughts circled back to this, our first year living in Seojong, and the many experiences we’ve had in this new chapter.
But also, the memory of our autumn trip to Taean was particularly vivid and present. Especially the night we waited till 10PM for the waterline to recede at low tide so we could venture out for crab hunting - all in pitch darkness.
***
Later this afternoon, when I was done with work, I went to pick up the kids; they surprised me by suddenly saying they would like to return to Taean this winter.
I hope they will treasure such memories all their lives. Because as the years go by, that’s ultimately what we hold onto: the love, the connection, the experiences we shared with each other.
***
To everyone who is reading these words, I wish you the very best in 2026.