September marked the beginning of sitting down in our daily song circle, a cherished morning ritual. Theo Vilje eagerly participated each day, inviting both of us to join him. This routine became a cornerstone of our mornings for and still is. Theo Vilje has consistently been involved in our food preparation. Since he was one and a half, his contributions to meal-making have been genuine. Weekly traditions like baking bread and making soup became delightful successes. 

Courage

During September, swimming emerged as a favorite activity. Singing songs in the pool and embodying animals while challenging himself with jumps and dives brought immense joy. These playful experiences naturally aligned with our monthly theme of courage, as Theo Vilje explored new challenges with our support. To further encourage trying new things, we often set up obstacle courses during this season, our a card-box or similar when he was younger. In Norway, snow typically hasn’t arrived yet, and in Cambodia, the temperatures are milder compared to April, so it is still possible to be outside. These conditions are ideal for engaging his gross motor skills and fostering perseverance through repeated attempts.

Remembrance

As life unfolds, both joy and sorrow become integral parts of our journey. Our experiences in Cambodia taught us the importance of honoring the departed by sharing their stories. In Cambodia they keep celebrating the departed for years. Following the loss of our grandparents, we embraced the tradition of Pchum Ben, a Cambodian tradition dedicated to commemorating the deceased. We’ve adapted this practice, selecting a day each year to remember loved ones by sharing their photos and stories with Theo Vilje, fostering gratitude and remembrance.