Traveling from the bustle of Athens to the beautiful Peloponnese peninsula, I visited the mountain village of Krianeri with my friends Dinos and Eleni Nikolopoulos.

Escaping to the village offered a respite. Eleni grew up in Krianeri. Brilliant flowers covered the mountains and bees were collecting nectar for mel or Greek honey.

It was cool and the village fireplaces were spewing smoke. Meandering down the stone road built originally for donkey travel, Eleni and I heard the sweetest laughter coming from behind a high patio wall.

Knocking on a heavy, carved door, we were greeted by three adorable little girls. Demitra is 9 years old and big sister to Constandina, 5, and Athena,4.

Their 28-year-old mother Maria invited us in. The youngsters were spirited and happy. Panos, their dad, was completing their new fireplace in the tiny living room.

When Athena realized her Papá was standing on the narrow mantelpiece, she immediately ordered him down saying in Greek, ``Papá, you get down. Papá, you get down right now! Don't you get hurt!''

It is obvious that this young family is full of love and that the parents take their responsibilities seriously.

Given chewing gum that I had brought from Miami, Demitra turned to her younger siblings to let them choose first. She understands that as the eldest, it is her responsibility to help the younger children share.

When Athena was a little more rambunctious than allowed in the house, her mother sent her to the bedroom to calm down. The 4-year-old -- without a word -- lowered her eyes and left the room. There was no loud arguing, just a very quiet sigh under the breath.

It was interesting to observe how the parents are raising their girls. After a few minutes Maria calmly entered the bedroom that is shared by the three little girls and their grandmother.

She softly talked with her youngest. I could hear her whispering that when company is in the house, the family needs to be especially polite and respectful.

Returning to the living room, Athena climbed onto my lap with a twinkle in her deep brown eyes. Putting her tiny arms around my neck, she rested her head on my shoulder. Not a peep -- but observing every single thing.

Maria went into the kitchen and Demitra followed, bringing out small crystal bowls filled with ``spoon sweets'' -- red quince in syrup.

As the oldest, Demitra was allowed to serve. The hospitality was warm and the little ones were curious about the American. They filled the room with precious chatter.

Panos didn't finish high school but he possesses vocational skills. Maria completed elementary school and worked in the fields. By 17, she knew how to take care of olive trees and grape vines. She understands effective fertilizers and pesticides; she knows how to propagate fruit trees and vines for maximum productivity while maintaining the books and running an efficient household.

When Panos was suggested as a husband, there was no hesitation.

Both parents work very hard. Panos drives two hours several times a week to an affluent area near Athens where he tends a mansion's gardens.

After Maria walks the two oldest girls to the village school, she works in the family's gardens while the cherished grandmother watches Athena who knows her alphabet, numbers, colors and is able to carry on a rather sophisticated conversation.

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