Twelfth Anniversary

Every year on October 21, we begin our celebrations: first, the anniversary of my arrival; then our wedding anniversary; and finally, New Year.

Today marks twelve years since I landed at Logan Airport. Daniel met me there with flowers. I was so relieved to finally let go of my constant alertness after traveling for nearly 36 hours. At last, I could relax and start looking around for something similar to what I just left - something that could help me to encore in Massachusetts. I often tell people that I’m in America only because my husband is an American, and I am grateful to him for that. My husband is my only encore.

Daniel asked me today whether twelve years feels like a long time. Honestly, I’m not sure. Sometimes it feels like we’ve been through so much together, and yet, I don’t want to believe that I’m twelve years older.

Twelve years ago, Daniel took me to the beach. It was the first time I saw the ocean, the sea grass, the seagulls. I have been in love with the ocean since then.

I love the smell of the ocean, the coziness of old houses, unpredictable New England climate, even cheeky squirrels, and especially my “only anchor". He listens to me, shares an opinion, answers the questions, explains things and tolerates. He tolerates me being myself with wrinkles, gray hair and a couple of extra ponds.

Anyway, let celebrations begin - to my 12 years of arrival!

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