Lovely slice of life

Such a comforting drama about found families and the strength of their love for one another. I really enjoyed how they teased out the generational conflicts between children and parents and came to a refreshing resolution that resonated with real life and was both believable but not cruel.

I loved the first half of the show before the romance storyline was introduced, but once it was the story didn’t linger on it (but you will need to suspend disbelief and just run with the premise). As another review said, I wish the drama transitioned that plot line better will and explored how Jian Jian felt, how Ziqiu and the parents felt with this development. It’s clear why Ling Xiao is in love with Jian Jian but I wish they did more to convince the audience - the abruptness added to the discomfort a bit for me. Thankfully they also didn’t linger on the love triangle that is hinted. Ziqiu’s love for Jian Jian was different than the love Ling Xiao had for her and eventually it’s clear there isn’t really a love triangle. The romantic elements felt a bit forced as was all the love triangles between the friends, but I think those elements aside it was really refreshing to see the story focus on the characters’ growth, struggles with their careers, self-esteem, self-loathing, mental health issues, coming to terms with their values even when in conflict with their parents’, and the selflessness of Li ba’s love for his three children in contrast with the selfishness of some of the mothers in the show.

Many of the moments of resolution and moments of love between the characters and the siblings were so endearing and lovely to watch. Those moments made the length of the show worth it and it felt as peaceful as sitting in a bright warm sun-lit room.

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