Halmoni Ariella Kim

I sense you’re here by your strong lavender perfume, like you’re coming right out of a field of flowers. When I think of you, I think of your smile, warming up the whole room. The way you feed us until we can’t get up. Your thick accent and your stories that take me into another world. Whenever I come, you’re waiting by the door, ready to embrace us in a big hug. I remember you by your proud gleaming eyes when we tell you our accomplishments, your expressions when you’re talking about nature and gardens. When I see you, I think of your pearl necklace, your short black hair, and the warm wool socks you put on every day. I come home from school and the smell of rice and kimchee swirls around and I know you’ve come.

Of course I miss it: your warm hugs, your delicious food, your gleaming eyes. But I know you’ll be back and I will be waiting for you.

Ariella Kim, Grade 5 Saint Paul Academy, Saint Paul Teaching Artist, Joyce Sidman