Anna teaches her children and grandchildren to always remember, visit, and care for their paternal house where they were born and brought up. It is a custom in her family to go to a Buddhist monk and ask for prayers when a member of the family sets out on a long journey. Anna asks her family members who happen to be far away to burn incense or light up a candle (zul) when they get homesick. In order to provide prosperity, protection and happiness to the whole family, Anna hangs Buddhist hiimori flags in her yard. The household where Anna lives consists of two houses. The first house was built in 1958 by her father-in-law, and the second in 1972. There are also two tall trees planted by her father-in-law. Both houses and trees, which are associated with the memory of the patriarch, are respected by all members of the large family. During national holidays the trees get decorated. Anna�s mother-in-law who lives in the first house reads Buddhist prayers daily. On special auspicious days all members of the family also receive a blessing from the grandmother. According to Kalmyk custom, every day the first cup of freshly brewed tea is offered to gods. During national holidays, the first portion of the family meal is put on the family altar.