Minimalism and the Big Mac

"Life is never made unbearable by circumstances, but only by lack of meaning and purpose." ~ Viktor Frankl

Time is Running Out... Literally!

I woke up at 7 am, ready to tackle a to-do list long enough to make Santa blush, all before clocking in for my job remotely at 11:30 am EST. Perks of time zones, right? Well, sort of. My daughter just gave birth three days ago—hello, fourth grandchild! (Yes, I’m officially part of the cool grandma club now.)

She’s a dainty, adorable princess weighing in at 7.2 pounds, and in Chinese tradition, the first month is critical for both baby and mom. Meaning? It’s all about the right kind of food to ensure they both thrive. So here I am, whipping up ginger fried rice, stewed butternut squash, pork spareribs, and black fungus like a Michelin-star chef—minus the fame and fortune.

Normally, I’d visit my mom in her long-term care home to keep her company during breakfast. But today, my daughter and her newborn are the top priority. Oh, and it’s garbage day, which means I’m also knee-deep in decluttering old clothes, broken utensils, and who-knows-what from the kitchen. Fun, right? On top of that, I just finished sewing a new pajama set for my oldest granddaughter because, of course, she outgrew her favorite set just in time for me to add tailor to my resume.

Feels Like a Double-Decker Big Mac

They call this the "sandwich generation" because we’re caught between caring for aging parents and raising our own kids. Honestly, it’s more like a double-decker Big Mac—so many layers, and I’m the one holding it all together!

Exhausted? You bet. There are never enough hours in the day to get everything done. And my siblings and friends? They’re probably wondering if I am hibernating as I have declined all their coffee or dinner invites. Priorities, though. My family comes first—even my hubby, who almost slid off the list (sorry, dear!).

But here’s the thing: I’m not feeling guilty. I’m relocating to British Columbia in 10 days—counting down! —and I’m following my North Star. The big picture is clear, and I’m all in.

Here We Go Again...

This move brings back memories of 38 years ago when I left Hong Kong for Canada with my husband, one daughter, and six gigantic suitcases. Flashback to the airport scene: tears, hugs, and lots of well-wishing. I can’t believe how far we’ve come. And here I am, setting sail once again with a lifetime of meaningful moments packed away.

Make It Count

Transitions, big or small, shape us in ways we can’t always predict. They help us grow, learn, and discover our purpose—kind of like a life-size jigsaw puzzle where every piece matters.

So, what transitions have shaped you?

And how are you making them count?