January 29, 2010. Nuevo Vallarta, Mx. Luck.

My brother was correct with his comment to my web log of several days ago. He said, "You both have come a long way." This is true and I suppose we got there the way everyone always does, which is to work hard, take chances, and buy real estate. But in addition, we had a lot of luck and assistance. We were born at the right time, just at a time of sustained economic growth. Over a ten year period, the economy had always grown. Demographics worked for us too, as our age group was a small group, so access to schools and employment was always available.

We were born with some advantages too. Ken's intellect allowed him to attend college and Medical school and to keep him interested in learning all his life, which meant he was never bored. I was born with an easy disposition and the ability to work hard and of course I am a quick learner. We both have large amount of energy, enough to shoulder any work load. Ken and I think differently, which has worked well for us over the years and certainly has contributed to our success.

Families have been supportive to us too, which is something you can not just plan to have. The lack of criticism has always been a great blessing from our families, especially when I hear of other family situations.

Timing was important too. We emigrated in 1964 to the USA at a time when we were welcome because we were educated and Ken had a Medical position in Texas. In 1966, the law was changed to allow a strict quota of Canadians into the country so we probably would have been denied or delayed into our entry the the US.

So it is true, that we have come a long way since 1958, but we had some hidden advantages!!