Original Date: Aug. 2, 2007

There are many benefits to working for yourself. The main one is that you can work as much or as little as you want from any where in the world that you happen to be. It gives you geographic independence to savor each corner of the world to your heart’s desire, and that to me is priceless!

Though, one drawback is having people understand that you do have work! A frequent question is “Why don’t you get a job like the rest of the people?”. I simply refuse to dignify that with an answer! So let’s move on…

Of course, by working from your home office and not having a boss, you suddenly become the designated my-child-is-on-summertime-vacation babysitter! Which explains why I’ve spent the past few months surrounded by other people’s children! No, this isn’t always a problem. My three year old nephew Brian (I call him Yayan) is my latest little helper.

Every morning Yayan runs and wraps his little arms around my neck and gives me chocolate kisses expecting me to make Mikey Mouse pancakes and beams as he shares with me his latest dream. His angelic calm demeanor makes it a true joy to be around him and I have no problem doing my chores with him seated next to me. Today for example, between projects we spent the afternoon learning how to roll our tongue In the end, I get to see him more than his working parents. Time flies, children grow up so fast! and I’m savoring this moment while it lasts.

Do you remember Giosue? Yayan’s tiny size and expressive eyes remind me of Giosue, the child in Roberto Benigni’s memorable “La Vita è Bella” whose nostalgic sights and characters are only equaled by it’s Nicola Piovani music! Here are a few snapshots I took of my favorite scenes. Enjoy!