Zoom Story Time With RONG

Last fall I had the pleasure of joining the RONG House Story Time group in Vietnam. Each week they meet to practice their English, read a book, do some yoga, and check in with each other. (I think it’s so cool — in case anyone wants to do a book group like that with me!). During the pandemic they meet on Zoom, providing a way to socialize and learn. I had the honor of joining them for a book reading with my two daughters.

When we met over Zoom we all introduced ourselves. I read my book “What Are Mommies Made Of?” And after I was done reading it in English, two members including my friend Cathy Lam, translated my words. It was beautiful to hear our languages side by side. When we were done, each member talked about what they love to do with their moms. This was my favorite part. It was so beautiful to hear about these special moments that each of them cherish with their moms.

For some it was cooking, for others it was reading a book, or playing — each moment important to them. I was happy to hear these moments because it’s why I wrote “Mommies,” for kids and their moms to reflect on the importance of being unique and the special moments that they share together.

Next we talked about what we all like to write and draw. They asked me how I became a writer. I told them about the time I wrote a poem and entered it into my school’s writing contest. When I won, I was shocked and the prize was an empty journal with a pen. The journal became my sacred space to write, which is why I encourage everyone who wants to write, to have a journal. I showed them my daughter’s storybook journal. Everyone loved it! My daughter even shared her story with the group!

Now the members of RONG House are going to start writing and doodling in their own journals. And they’ve all promised to share their stories with me next time! I cannot wait.

Meeting with the members of RONG House was really fun and I loved sharing writing tips with them and hearing what they like to read and write about. I look forward to sharing story time again with them soon.