<p>filo895 - I sending you {{{HUGS}}} and wishing you all the best as your daughter makes you proud. I have a daughter about the same age. I miss her terribly when she is away, but I keep reminding myself that whatever she is doing - school, travel, volunteer work - is what she is meant to do at the time. It helps a little bit… She calls me from overseas through Skype. She buys Skype credit and then can reach me on my cell no matter where I am. It is quite inexpensive and I don’t have to be at home to talk to her. 
I’ll keep her, and you, in my thoughts and prayers.</p>
<p>Hi filo, hugs to you!</p>
<p>How exciting. I knew many Peace Corps volunteers having spent my childhood in Africa. I can’t imagine how it must have been for parents in those pre-cellphone pre-Internet days! I had a friend who’s son has been teaching in China this year. They visited him at Christmas and said it was fascinating (though very cold) - there was virtually no heat in those houses! Luckily blankets are really cheap. He’s really enjoying it.</p>
<p>I wish her a great time and I hope you’ll be able to visit. It would be so cool to be able to see China with someone who can show you the non-touristy things.</p>
<p>Filo895: Sending more Cyber {{{{HUGS}}} to you as your dear daughter embarks on her amazing and noble journey. Though it is hard for you, hoping your pride and faith in your wonderful daughter will get you through. What an amazing young woman you have raised. May safety and happiness be a part of her days and nights. Wishing you and her ALL THE BEST.</p>