MY FAMILY

We are a typical family of two parents and two children. Like most other families we have our own traditions and our own problems.

My parents are the dearest people for me. They have brought me up and taught me a lot of things. The main one is that if you want to be successful in life, you should work hard. They teach me not only in words but also by deeds of theirs.

My father's name is Vladimir Nikolayevich. He is a tall, solidly-built man of 43. His kind grey eyes, luxurious moustache and a charming smile make him incredibly attractive. In fact, he is not a very strict father, but is responsible and reliable. My Dad is very intelligent but rather modest. He has always been loved and respected by his friends and colleagues.

My mother's name is Natalia Vladimirovna. She is nice, young-looking and cheerful. Being active and smart, she is interested in many things: psychology and philosophy, art and literature, economy and politics. People often ask her for help or advice and she never refuses. Mom is a very sociable person and very popular with her friends. That's why on high days and holidays we always expect many people to come to our place. Then from the early morning we prepare for the party. My sister and I switch on the tape-recorder and tidy up the flat. Dad goes shopping and Mom does the cooking. Actually Mom is very good at making salads. She knows a lot of recipes and likes to invent new ones. When Dad returns he joins Mom in the kitchen. His usual tasks are to peel potatoes and to make chops. Meanwhile we finish doing the flat up and start laying the table. When everything is ready and we all are a bit tired, we are still looking forward to having lots of fun, guitar songs and dancing, when everybody feels relaxed and comfortable.

We have got such parties on special dates only. But on usual evenings we also like to gather in the living-room, watch TV and discuss the latest events of the day. I don't share all my problems with the parents because sometimes I don't want to upset them or for some personal reasons. But I can discuss everything that worries me with my sister. Although she is two years my junior she is rather smart and practical, she takes things easier than I do and it lets me see the other side of the situation. My sister and I are very different, we sometimes have arguments (for example when she wears my clothes without permission), but we are very close and she is the person whom I trust, appreciate and love.

It's so good to have a friendly family and to feel safe and happy in it.