Stephen is having a blast here in California. We’ve been outdoors every single day. This is in sharp contrast to our life in Vietnam where we spend most of our time indoors - mostly at home then at various shopping areas and restaurants. Usually, we’re only out in the elements once or twice a week when we’re walking from point A to point B. No wonder Stephen always wants to walk when I ask him whether we should walk home or take a taxi. (Actually, I’m the one who walks while he’s carried.)

Trekking on unpaved paths, scattering dry leaves, tossing bark, and generally mucking about outdoors makes Stephen a very happy boy. My parents’ backyard alone qualifies as a mini-nature walk. Yesterday, we went to Tilden Park to ride the steam train and merry-go-round. It was a very special opportunity.

Parks in Vietnam are especially dirty during rainy season when litter is soggy and bare patches of ground are muddy. I’m also afraid of the profusion of mosquitoes which spell dengue fever in tropical climates particularly during this time of year. And of course, playground equipment in the developing country is nothing like what we romped on today at the Lafayette Reservoir in perfect weather. The only truly nice playground we have access to in Vietnam is too far away for regular visits.


Lafayette Reservoir Playground

I overheard one mother say to her daughter this morning, “This park doesn’t have water. We went to that park yesterday.” Imagine having the luxury of going to a different park every day. I hope they appreciate it as much as we do.