朱之谓

      Ogunquit, ME, a small coastal town with narrow streets, rustic houses, gorgeous beaches, scenic trails by the sea, and very quiet neibourhoods. 600 or so permanent residents live here in the winter, whereas 22,000 people come here vacationing from across the states in the summer.
      I'm not used anymore to walk around those narrow streets, because it made me feel as if I were back to the days of horse-drawn traffic. Believe it or not, my front door street in southern California could be classified as the broadway here in these rural communities of New England.
      New England is getting old and outdated in terms of its infrastructure. This is very true in the eyes of those who come from California. I was re-thinking the rationals behind the higher gas tax policies in California every time when I was traveling through these New England towns and villages. Should I change my mind complaining about paying $4-5/gal there in California for relatively smooth driving, vs. enjoying much lower taxed-gas sales of $3/gal here in New England at the expense of pretty tough rides? I don't know, to be honest.
      It seems that, however, except for rugged roads and other pretty ancient public facilities, there is a lot more that is worth considering to settle down here in New England, provided that you are rooted deep in European lifestyle and cultural values, such as art, architecture, literature, music, cuisines, and more importantly, education and traditions. Overall, living here in New England is not only easier but also more joyful in many ways.
      My wife and I spent this Chinese New Year weekend visiting our son & daughter-in-law as well as her parents who own a vacation house in that place of Ogunquit, Maine. The family gathering this time is very special in that it's been 5 years since last time we shared Chinese new year eve together. Additinally and more importantly, it was the great news that re-united the family once more and enriched our joyfulness and excitement at this auspicous and festival moment, and that is, the family is going to celebrate the firstborn of a new generation this coming summer. Best wishes to all the babies of the year of the dragon!