Michigan, USA

Snow. That is the one thing my parents would remember most about Michigan.  My mom never did like driving in the snow, let alone driving at all. I don't think I ever saw my mom parallel park.  She didn't like backing up either too.  She got nervous in the car whenever my dad or myself drove.  Sitting in the passenger seat she would pretend to step on the brakes near a stop light or when close to another car. Instinct I suppose.   She had a very good driving record though. A couple of tickets and a slight fender bender I recall.  She drove to Dearborn, MI for her job at Ford Motor. She drove us kids around to school activities or as I distinctly recall - Tae Kwon Do lessons.

After moving to Washington I don't think my mom quite ever adjusted from a social standpoint. She had made alot of friendships when my sister and I went to Chinese school on Saturdays. She never had that opportunity in Washington. 

Late 60s / early70s Mom and Dad selling knick knacks at a Detroit City sidewalk sale

Mid/Late 70s - Our home in Farmington Hills. 
Mink coats have definitely gone out of fashion!

 1983-85 - Wayne's Tae Kwon Do lessons. 
Like many parents of today, mom was a chauffeur

Our 1 acre home during the early 80s 
(Photo taken in 1995)

1995 - Wayne standing by cotton tree,
 good perspective on size of lot

Recent Travel Notes About Michigan

I last traveled to Michigan in 1995, staying at a friend's  house for a week who I had not seen in 10 years.  Quite an experience!   I sometimes wonder what would have happened if we remained in Michigan.   Then I realize it's a rather pointless question after a few minutes.   I remember riding the tractor to mow the lawn - by myself, on our 1 acre plot!   Exciting! After moving to Washington State, I couldn't understand at first why we didn't have a large yard.  After moving to Orange County, my perspective on what a yard is has changed yet again. 

With that said, the yard didn't look quite as big as I thought it would be when I went back to visit.  I suspect it had alot to do with how tall I am now vs then.  Around the house -- my sister and I  tobaggoned down the hill in our backyard, and raked leaves, something I truly miss.