PORTRAITS OF MY SON

I'm sharing a piece of my heart today.  

For over nine years, I thrived in Hong Kong, and now I’m embracing new experiences in Finland. Meanwhile, my son, Louie, along with his older sister, Yssah, and younger sister, Lyssah, has been in the Philippines. Despite missing birthdays, hugs, and quiet moments, my love for them has never wavered. Having Louie with me in Finland now is a remarkable blessing, and I am proud to witness his journey as he evolves into the artist he was always destined to be.

This poem is dedicated to him—for Totoy, my shy yet sweet boy, who once dreamt of robots and now passionately paints portraits. I wrote this to celebrate his journey, our bond, and the joy of supporting him as he pursues his dreams.

I look forward to the day when we’ll all be together again—  

You, me, your ate, and your little sister.  

A complete family, sharing laughter, love, and life.

Today, as he turns 19, I proudly dedicate this poem to him.  

To Totoy—my shy, suplado, but so sweet boy.  

To Louie—my son, my joy, my masterpiece.

Portraits of my son

Totoy, I called you when you were small,  

A name wrapped in warmth, the softest call.  

Now Louie stands, with nineteen years,  

Brave in silence, beyond his fears.

You once dreamed of robots, wires, and steel,  

Of building futures that felt surreal.  

But now your hands, with tender grace,  

Sketch human souls, each line in place.

We share this gift—this painter’s flame,  

A love for art that speaks your name.  

Your portraits breathe, your colors sing,  

And watching you paint—my heart takes wing.

For years, I missed your birthdays, son,  

While working far, the miles would run.  

In Finland’s cold, I held the ache,  

Of candles missed and hugs to make.

But now you’re here—no screen between,  

No ocean wide, no birthday unseen.  

You learn the words, you chase your art,  

And every day, you warm my heart.

In Finland’s hush, you learn each phrase,  

A new tongue blooming through autumn days.  

Yet deep inside, your dream still glows:  

To study fine arts, where passion flows.

You’re shy, suplado, sweet and true,  

A quiet tide that always grew.  

My son, my joy, my work of art—  

Forever etched upon my heart.

About Me 

Hi, I’m Mari Felices. I write about love, heartbreak, and the quiet lessons life teaches us along the way. My words are pieces of my soul—sometimes poetic, sometimes raw, but always honest. If even one person finds comfort in my story, then my writing has done its purpose.