1. Reese has her priorities right. I knew this move would be hard for Reese because she would be leaving so many things she loved; her friends, her school, her house, her grandparents. These things are irreplaceable over here and no matter how much you talk up the "experience" or the "adventure" it is no substitute for the close connections we have left behind in Chicago.
2. Preschool bonds are strong. Parents of small ones, don't underestimate the value of their friendships. I am still best friends with my pre-school buddy and I would not be at all surprised if Reese stayed in touch with some of hers. She knows some really great kids! We currently Skype with many of her friends which has helped her deal with her homesickness a lot.
3. If your child knows a great kid, chances are there is a great family behind him/her. I never realized how important the families of Reese's friends would be to me and how supportive and generous they would be. Before we moved, just about everyone offered to help me out in some way while Mike was gone, entertaining Reese while I ran errands and closed up the house, etc. Even now as we plan for our visit next month, one parent has offered to host a small get-together so that Reese can be sure to see everyone while she's in town. Amazing!
4. Reese (and Quinn) give me happiness and strength. I'm going through my own transition process and it's very hard trying to help Reese weed through her emotions at the same time. But there are so many times that as a family we can forget about our new circumstances and just have fun and laugh. As parents, there are many occasions to
I often speculate how living in Japan would be better/easier/more fun if Mike and I were on our own but the truth is, these two sweet kids are my reality and no matter where I am they will be the #1 reason to get up in the morning and my #1 source of joy.
We are parents and that is the ultimate adventure so...Japan...yeah, we got this.
