I had this Filipino-Chinese classmate in college who comes from a considerably well-to-do family. They have two houses her in the country, but his dad works in Hong Kong and lives in what I think is something like those shown in the pictures. I’m not sure what to think of it, on one side it sounds like admirable sacrifice, on the other side it sounds like sad excess. Of course, I’m not in any position to judge. After all, everyone has his own reasons.

I hope you’re doing great Bellezza! It’s great to be in touch with the community again

Love the maneki-neko. Both of my kids have those for their cell phones!

…my son wouldn’t answer his cell if I called him to save his life. Nope, he’ll only answer if I text him.

Sounds just like my daughter! She responds to text messages and Face Book posts. Although, I have to be honest. She called on Thanksgiving morning and we had a lovely chat for almost half an hour. Doesn’t take much to make me happy and I was in the best mood all day after that phone call!

We’ve lived in very large homes, but have discovered we’re happiest in our small 1930’s house. It has character and a cozy feeling that you just don’t get in those huge houses with the high vaulted ceilings. We have 700 square feet on each floor and most of the basement is liveable (or suitable for storage), so we have plenty of room for the two of us. The only time I feel crowded is when we’re entertaining more than 2 couples (plus us). For larger gatherings, we wait for warm weather and spend most of our time on our deck.

Your house was built the year I was born!

I always try to take the perspective that if one person is touched by what I teach it’s worth it, but I know that feeling of getting disheartened in the face of all that needs to be done. It’s hard especially when kids don’t meet you halfway.