Lately I’ve had several thoughts (note: not doubts) about raising our kids overseas. What are they “missing out” on? What I think childhood should look like – or a “normal” childhood – could only be based on my childhood experience though. . .

1. They don’t get to play with and know their cousins.
2. They don’t get to run freely in the grass and dirt.
3. They won’t be used to riding in cars and using seat belts (which could be bad when we visit the States).
4. They are missing out on family birthdays and holiday traditions.
5. They won’t get to eat Mamaw Betty’s strawberry jam and yummy breakfasts, Uncle Dale’s yummy cooking, Nana Gail’s texas sheet cakes and coconut cream pies, Gma and Gpa Haas’ hospitality, or Grandma Miles’ yummy cooking either.
6. Will they be missing out educationally? Will they be able enter college without problems?
7. Where will they consider home?

But, you know what? The Father proves faithful, and He loves my kids way more than I ever could. . . So, though the above is true, this is also true:

1. The time they WILL get with their cousins will be extra special and never taken for granted again!
2. Moving to this city, we chose to live on the first floor specifically so the kids COULD play in the tiny grass area that goes with our apartment PLUS, this city has lots of hiking and nature to enjoy that we didn’t have before!
3. It’s definitely more convenient here to get around, though not as safe I know. Just hop on or pile in (i.e. family of 5 on a scooter to get around)! When we go back to the States. . .well, we will cross that bridge when we get there!
4. We really miss the birthdays and holidays, but we have started our own traditions which make holidays special in this culture. I’m not sure what their traditions will look like when they get older and have families of their own though!
5. Missing out on these yummy things that make my tummy rumble just typing about it, but the kids have eaten Chinese, Thai, Malaysian, etc. cuisine. Hopefully they will have a vast palate and appreciate food!
6. I’m homeschooling in addition to their attending the local school. That’s a big responsibility. . . but I realize the vast benefit of their experiencing and learning another culture, another language, and obtaining a cross-cultural education.
7. Colt told me last night that we have had “lots of homes!” Pretty much anywhere we have ever stayed long enough to unpack the suitcase is considered “one of our homes.”

We are American, immersed in a country, culture, and people foreign to our home nation. . . but it is becoming more and more familiar to us. Caden was only 8 months old when we moved here, and he prefers to eat rice and noodles. Kylie’s Chinese is fluent and just as good as her English. Colt speak fluently and has adapted amazingly to our (yet another) “home” here. These kids are amazing. Maybe it’s just Mommy that is missing all of the things above because they don’t know any differently. . .