#sweetribbons

Despite her relatives being very well-off they never visit and are very distant and difficult to get hold of.  Mami would send the occasional e-mail to a faraway cousin or aunt and get a reply a week or more later, sometimes never.  Communication with them is almost non-existent.  

Mami's parents, although sweet and caring, were quite strict at times and made sure they were bringing up their daughter to be a polite young lady, telling her to mind her manners, speak formally and to contribute to society.  Wanting to be directive but not suffocating (and due to their demanding jobs), they gave Mami a lot of freedom, trusting her with independence and responsibility from a young age.  The time they did manage to relax and have fun together was very precious.