it started with text message traffic between an island of the country of the boot and the country of the one handed woman. in the messages my mother shared reminiscences from the time I was within her. like, working with me in one of the best kitchens of helsinki. like, being proud of my existence on the way to and from work. I told her I believe this pride transformed into a healthy self-esteem in me, and cried alone for sheer happiness – for my mother, who she is, and that exactly 21 years ago was the last day in her womb for me