Eight years and counting ... That's how long ago we left California and moved across the country and settled in the Raleigh/Durham area in North Carolina. It was a chance to simplify life.

We live in a 2-story, brick-front, comfortable home at a relatively quiet and peaceful neighborhood. Our back yard is lined with trees. The mortgage is less than a quarter of a typical 30-year old house in Foster City. Needless to say, there are trade-offs.

May has made many friends in the area, who are also from other parts of the country. But undoubtedly, she misses California where most of our families live - especially around the holidays and the good authentic foods. As an excellent compromise, May is able to replicate many of dishes at home - including Vietnamese Phơ - which I am very proud of. You have to try out her recipes (coming soon) !

Howsen will be three this summer but is still acting out terrible 2. , It's his first year at Montessori. Both Aaron and Hughie are in 8th and 6th grade respectively. The boys enjoy the Montessori program immensely. Aaron went onto regular middle school now. He joined the orchestra, loves to read and is good with math. Hughie is less patient, witty, and enjoys creative inventions of all sort. He is our LEGO champ. More on kids stuff.

All in all, we are blessed with good health, wonderful kids and a promising future here. Will we move again? Never say "never". But for now, NC is home.

To all our families and friends across the country and around the world, we wish you all the very BEST!