The Reaction

We told our kids a couple of weeks ago that we are likely moving to China. Now one might wonder how much a six year old and four year old would understand about moving. We have been surprised with their questions that show their insight and glimpses of understanding. Don't get me wrong, I still think that they are going to be shocked and overwhelmed by how big a change this is. But maybe these questions will help them grapple with some of them before we go. Becca (who is 6) is so excited. I heard her telling a friend that we might be moving to China, but it is just 90% certain right now. She asks us often if we are at 100% yet. Josh was quick to say, "Becca, we are just THINKING about it." Can you tell how he feels? As I was filling out the forms for their passports, Becca wondered what I was doing. Her response when I explained was, "I FINALLY get a passport! I've always wanted one of my own!" Such our adventurous one! How many 6 year olds even know what a passport is? As you could maybe tell from his comment to Becca, Josh is not at all excited about moving. I have the feeling that we will be getting on the plane and he will still be sad to leave his Colts room. As we tell him things about what life might be like, he gets momentarily excited and then says, "But I will only like a couple of things - not everything." I wonder if any move would be this upsetting to him as he prepares to leave the only house he has known.