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Home vs House

I had my office room door closed because I was in a video call when Kenzo got home from school. It's not unusual for him to come sneaking or bursting in anyway, regardless if I'm talking with my team or a customer.

In today's case I was talking with Grace, who wears many hats. She's my friend, co-worker, team leader, babysitter, and all-around good person to have in your life.

We were in a deep work-related discussion when the door behind me opened. I warned Grace there was about to be a little interruption, and she was excited to see Kenzo or Osamu or even Eri if she happened to pop in.

I turned around and saw Kenzo, but in front of him was his classmate Hidekazu, who was as surprised as I was to see him here. Kenzo was close behind, super excited to have his friend over. Through a mix-up with their backpacks Hidekazu ended up coming over unexpectedly, and they had a grand time.


As an honorary "big boy" Osamu joined in the fun when he got home from kindergarten.

I am all-in when it comes to Kenzo having friends over to play. I think setting the stage early for the boys to be inviting and host their friends is a way to nurture family values like hospitality and community building. Creating a warm and welcoming environment for their friends and inviting them over to play is a way to build strong friendships and foster a sense of belonging.

It's a tiny burden that I believe pays dividends in the long run. Kenzo and Osamu will make memories in their home, instead of just living in a house.


Eri has been on a roll with the home decorating and accessorizing. Tonight I noticed she spiced up the kitchen with some magnetized picture frames to display the boys' artwork in a more stylish way than just a drawing stuck to the wall with a magnet.

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