—I'd love to, but I haven't made(a)            . I'll think about it.

    It is the first school that teaches us right and wrong. It is our dearest place that1us from danger. It is our family.

    In many2countries, extended families(大家庭)are common. In some big cities, families usually have three generations(一代人)living3the same house. While in most Western countries, many people4nuclear families(核心家庭).5the daytime, working parents send their children to their grandparents' home or a daycare centre. And after work, they 6 the children back up.

    In China, it's normal for parents to7children's college tuition(学费). After 8, many parents also help find a job for their children, or buy an apartment for them. In Western countries, 9, children are supposed to be quite independent after they reach the age of 18. After graduation, parents usually won't cover most of their cost of living any 10.

    Although families in the East and West may be different, they are the best places to warm us and teach us important values of love and care.

Dear Mum,

    I'm sorry that I can't go back home for Mother's Day next week. On that day, I'll have to go to an important meeting for my boss, who helps me a lot with my work and life here. But I'll find time to see you at home soon.

    Mum, thank you for everything you've done for Tim and me. After Dad died ten years ago, you had to work in a supermarket in the daytime and in a restaurant at night. But you always gave us two your love and care. Though you don't have to work now, I still remember your coming home and feeling tired many evenings.

    Tim is going to finish his studies next month. He said he would move back from school and look for a job near home. I'm glad you won't live by yourself any more. Let's plan to take a trip in the near future. It's been years since the three of us took a trip together.

    Happy Mother's Day! I love you, Mum.

Best wishes,

John