03/10/2026
Hello Gorgeous…
Some people say I work too much and don’t spend enough time with my Poppy.
The truth is, yes, I do work a lot. I work nights, days, weekends and public holidays. Sometimes, every day seems to flow into the next…
But I work for my family and my children’s future. In my Vietnamese family, working hard and making sacrifices for the next generation was part of how we were raised. It’s deeply woven into who I am, and I don’t think that will ever change.
My parents worked seven days a week, both for themselves and for others. Even when they were home, they were often working on the farm.
I don’t feel that I missed out. I learnt by watching them.
I learnt that if I wanted something in life, I would have to work for it and make sacrifices. I learnt responsibility and how to appreciate what we had, because I understood the effort behind it.
I also learnt to stand on my own two feet. To build my future rather than wait for someone else to provide it. An inheritance is a gift, not something we are automatically entitled to.
Someone recently asked me, “What do you do for fun?”
I eat… I eat good food!
Those who know me know how much I love food—and yes, I am extremely fussy. I work hard so I can enjoy good food!
My mother’s cooking has always been a highlight of my life. The flavours, the memories and the love she put into every meal are things I treasure.
And to be absolutely honest… I’ve yet to find anywhere with food that I absolutely love. So a trip back home might be on the cards… good food is worth travelling for! .
I’m still learning how to balance work with precious time with my family. I know those little moments matter, too. My hope is that my children grow up knowing how deeply they are loved and understanding the love and purpose behind everything I do.
So my lesson to Poppy and all my children is this…
Work for what you want. Don’t simply expect it to be given to you.
Learn as much as you can. Learn from others, from experience and from your mistakes.
Appreciate what you have, take pride in what you build, and always know your worth.
Heart love you - Poppy w
