Thanks, Lyndsey. I’m often very reluctant to try new foods, so trying the spring rolls was quite a courageous act for me. lol. But I’m so glad I did.

How delightful that you still have wonderful memories of Vanmalay from your youth. I imagine it felt like quite a gift to her to be valued as the person everyone wanted to know!

Thank you for commenting about teaching English to the Albanians, Donna. I can’t even imagine. You show that our common humanity can be shared regardless of which side of the barriers we are on. Awkwardness doesn’t have to prevent the sharing of love!

I’m very impressed that you made spring rolls, Lois! It’s not something I will likely ever attempt. (Then again, I should know to never say never. ha).

Broadening our welcome is an ongoing challenge; one that never ends, but it always worth it!

You sum it up well, Lynn: “We are not all so different after all.” (I’d have to refuse the pickled chicken feet too, btw.) You raised Sheridan well, setting a good example for her to love others with authenticity and going the extra mile to help them feel welcomed. Thank you for all you’ve done and continue to do to make this world a better place!

Your daughter-in-law sounds amazing. The work she does going into people’s homes to teach English must feel like a wonderful gift to those she helps. I no longer am actively doing this work, but it was quite fulfilling (even as I felt quite inadequate doing it).

I can imagine you and your Filipino guests around your table eating their authentic food; you are such an inspiration, Dianna!

I’m so sorry that you didn’t get more time with Jessica. 🙁 Thank you for mentioning her name here, Linda.