Grumbler, better SHE'S WONDERING. She WONDERS in general about life, about the welfare of her children who are in another country, about her future which is uncertain at the moment, etc.

Also, grow well = THRIVE

Thrive - is it not VERY well?

No, you can simply say: This type of plant doesn’t thrive in tropical climates. It means it doesn’t do well/grow well.

See the examples: https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thrive

Спасибо, исправил

+++Grumbler