Today is one of those quiet, overcast days in Fiji.
The sky has been filled with clouds, with occasional showers and humid air replacing the usual sunshine.
Days like this naturally invite a slower pace.
Yesterday, we shared a new tropical recipe: Tropical Coconut Shrimp Curry with Fresh Tomatoes.
Made with sweet tomatoes, creamy coconut milk, and juicy shrimp, it's the perfect dish to enjoy on a rainy island afternoon.
Recently, I finished reading The Happiest Kids in the World by Rina Mae Acosta and Michele Hutchison for the second time.
The book explores parenting in the Netherlands, a country often associated with raising some of the happiest children in the world.
Since Fiji is also known for its relaxed way of life and its happy people, I found myself wondering if there might be something the two places have in common.
I've always loved printed books.
There's something comforting about turning real pages and seeing books lined up on a shelf.
But in Fiji, bookstores are few and far between, so these days I read mostly on a tablet.
Being able to download a book from anywhere in the world is one of those simple modern conveniences I'm especially grateful for.
Reading the book again reminded me that there is no single "right" way to raise children.
Every country has its own culture, values, and traditions.
Even within the same country, every family has its own rhythm and priorities.
Rather than searching for one perfect parenting style, perhaps what matters most is finding what works for your own family.
As I read, I couldn't help noticing a few similarities with everyday life in Fiji.
Children here seem to enjoy a simple childhood.
I rarely see after-school tutoring centers, and organized extracurricular activities appear far less common than in many parts of the world.
Weekends are often spent at home, playing with neighbors, sharing meals with family, or simply enjoying each other's company.
Life doesn't seem to revolve around constantly moving from one scheduled activity to the next.
Of course, every country has different educational systems and opportunities, so direct comparisons are impossible.
Still, watching children head to school each morning, they often seem relaxed, energetic, and genuinely happy to be there.
One idea from the book stayed with me: instead of always trying to help children get ahead, perhaps there's value in allowing them to fully learn what is right in front of them, at the right time.
More than anything, though, the book reminded me that both parents and children deserve to feel at ease.
There is little reason to constantly compare ourselves with other families, other countries, or someone else's definition of success.
Every family has its own pace, its own values, and its own version of a good life.
Perhaps what matters most isn't following someone else's idea of perfect parenting, but creating a home where everyone feels supported, comfortable, and free to grow in their own way.
Living in Fiji often reminds me that sometimes, a simpler life leaves more room for exactly that.
By the way, The Happiest Kids in the World is also featured in Bula Fiji Magazine Vol.05 in our reading column, "Books to Enjoy in Your Favorite Place."
Whether discovered while traveling or picked up during everyday life, books have a way of offering fresh perspectives exactly when we need them.
In Issue Five, we've gathered a selection of books that pair beautifully with slow mornings, quiet afternoons, and the gentle rhythm of island living.
We hope you'll enjoy exploring the magazine as well.
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