There is nothing in the world that makes me happier than to see my son smile.
On Mother's Day, I found myself reflecting back on my journey through motherhood. And, I realized I never knew the power of love until I met my son. A mother's love is an unbelievable thing. It allows you to do things you never thought possible. It allows you to become a wiser, more patient person with a new sense of who you are and what you are capable of.
I decided long ago that my son was a gift, a gift from God. He was to be cherished, respected, educated, loved, and nurtured, so that someday he can be the best possible person he can be. It's a tall order to place on me, but I was more than willing to take up the challenge. And, like other things in my life, I do them all the way, to the best of my ability. This was a challenge I was willing and ready to take on.
The first few months of Jude's life were exhausting mainly because he was a baby who never, ever slept, and he wanted to nurse all the time. He was too intrigued with the world around him to ever find the time to sleep, and, well, he loved to have a boob in his mouth (such a typical guy).
After the first 10 months, he became a walking, talking little guy. Since then, he's been absorbing everything he can. He's mastered so many things in these 5 years. It's amazing what he's become.
On this mother's day, all I know is that I'm so thankful that I was chosen to be
his mother. So thankful that
he was given to me! So thankful for every moment I get to spend with
him on this planet! So thankful for everything
he is capable of. So thankful for such a sweet, amazing, little boy! So thankful to be
his mother!
Jude posing for a picture near the entrance gate.
An orangutan monkeying around. 
Jude and I posing for a picture near the fish flags (these flags are flown in honor of Boy's Day- a Japanese holiday).
A sumo wrestler in training was also there visiting the zoo.
