At the end of July, I went back to the pediatric clinic where I worked to say goodbye.
For almost six years—through rainy days, sunny days, snowy days, and even during the pandemic—I commuted there every single day.
Six years may not sound like much, but so much happened in that time—both good and challenging. Our full-time nurses changed several times, and the COVID-19 years were incredibly tough.
Still, I’ve seen so many beautiful moments.
The tiny two-month-old babies who first came in when I started working are now six years old and starting elementary school. Some have become big brothers or sisters, with younger siblings in tow. I’ve watched entire families grow—three children, each one I’ve seen from their first days.
The moms have become so familiar to me that we greet each other anywhere we meet. Sometimes we recognize each other just from the sound of our voices on the phone.
That’s the magic of working in pediatrics. It’s such a deeply rewarding field.
From newborns, to the first time they hold their heads up, to their first smiles, to their first steps…
From learning to speak, to developing a cheeky attitude, to hitting the “terrible twos.”
I only raised one child myself, but thanks to working at the clinic, I got to witness the growth of so many children.
I learned so much—
Which illnesses spread in which seasons, what symptoms to expect, how to prevent infections…
When each vaccine should be given, and which ones are covered by public funds or are self-paid…
It was such a valuable experience. On my last day, I even received a beautiful bouquet of flowers. I was so touched.
Of course, there were ups and downs with the director, but he was always kind to both me and my daughter. I’m truly grateful for that.
Now, I’m preparing for a new challenge. Honestly, I have plenty of fears, but I know I just have to go for it. My daughter is working so hard for her exams, so I have no excuse not to do my best too.
Since I have a bit of time right now, I’ve started studying AI in earnest. I don’t know how much I’ll be able to master, but it’s so fascinating that I want to keep learning until my curiosity is satisfied.
A Ramen Adventure
On a completely different note…
The other day, my daughter, her dad, and I went out for some iekei ramen. My daughter made the request, and her dad chose the place.
We’re a ramen-loving family through and through, but… this time’s choice was a little off. The soup was too salty, and none of us could finish it.
Still, we’ll keep looking for the perfect ramen spot!
By the way, her dad loves ramen and yakiniku (grilled meat) so much that he actually became a ramen shop and yakiniku shop owner. Talk about commitment!
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