Transitions

The dictionary defines transitions as:  movement,  passage, or change from one position, state, stage, subject, concept, etc., to another; 

change.  

It's probably that word "change" that evokes the most emotion in any of us.  Some of us avoid change at all costs.  We run from anything that hints at different... and when we are forced into change we have a feeling of dread, hopelessness, fear etc.  

For others "change" is a welcome friend.  Something to look forward to.  It evokes a feeling similar to a fresh cool breeze blowing on your face.

In either case, change comes... welcome or not.

At our best I think we should fall somewhere between the two extremes.  Personally I don't necessarily seek out change but when it comes, I, usually, take on the challenges that it might present and try to focus on the positive outcomes that may result.  Sometimes, successful.  Sometimes, not.

Regardless of my feelings,  change has come to our home.

But more obvious and more importantly, change has come into  the lives of Katya and Mariana... in a most life changing way. 

And it is a change in every aspect of their lives!

There really isn't a part of their teenage experience that has not been touched by this change...  culture permeates every part of everything we do... often without our recognition of its effects.  And they have had to leave behind one culture and learn another.

 

Relationships, chosen and circumstantial, also greatly influence our daily routines and our thoughts and actions and emotions.  Every relationship they had in Ukraine is now long distance at best.  And they are having to work at developing new relationships.

And language!  You never realize how many words you use in a day until they are not there for you.  Think of all the people you know that tried to learn a second language in school and succeeded.  

Not many, right?

Learning a language is very difficult... or else we would all be, at least, bilingual.

 

Today is two weeks that we have been home... all together under one roof.  I would be lying if I said that it has been all smooth sailing.

But each day has seen some kind of progress... Praise God!

We are thankful for each forward step... 

Katya and Mariana are working hard to learn everything new.  Kenzie, Hunter, Emy and Nic have been encouraging, supportive and welcoming in every way imaginable.

I have great kids!  All six of them :)