10 DAYS IN MOSCOW

We just got back to Rostov after spending a wonderful ten days in Moscow. We did this trip for Adriana's test week in school. We rented an apartment from ''The Moscow City.'' It was a really nice experience all in all. The weather was amazing for most of the time, we did some fun activities and shopping. I turned thirty-one and couldn't have asked for a better birthday. We just relaxed at home with a delicious cake and beautiful flowers. Roman also had a chance to visit us in Moscow for a day! The kids were so happy to see papa! We lived on the 45th floor, and the panoramic views were really something else! The area is nice because you don't need a car to do certain things like food shopping or just visiting the mall. The food store Azbuka Vkusa and Afi mall was only a five minute walk from the apartment. 

The closest park Krasnaya Presnya, should only be a twenty minute walk (not sure because we drove there). So far Krasnaya Presnya, was the nicest park I have visited in Moscow. It had two separate playgrounds and a jumping area for kids. The walk ways along the ponds were beautiful, and in general it was designed in a thoughtfully and beautiful way. Although our living experience in Moscow City was good, I don't think I would ever choose to live there. I did love the convenience of being able to walk to different places, but livingwise I enjoy houses more. One thing (this might sound strange) that really made me anxious, was not being able to open windows in the apartment. Of course is totally understandable not having that feature in a skyscraper building, but it really bothered me. I'm just the kind of person who likes to open up windows to let air in. It just makes the area you live in feel fresher.

So like I mentioned, my oldest daughter Adriana had a test week in school. That was the only reason we flew in to Moscow. Earlier when we found out we were moving to Rostov, my heart sank for Adriana. I knew it would be tough on her, to give up her daily school routine and friends. After looking in to school possibilities in Rostov, we discovered that there was no international/English schools. Luckily enough we were able to co-operate with Adriana's school in Moscow. Giving her the opportunity and possibility to continue her studies with her schools curriculum from abroad. I can not even put in to words how grateful I am for this. Physically she hasn't been able to participate in school for four months, but mentally she is there. She is studying hard and improving at a good pace. Her test week went well, and her teacher was really pleased with her results. As a mother, this week in Moscow really lifted a huge rock off of my heart. I was so worried that she would somehow fall behind, making her next school year more difficult for her, but I am now confident that she will be just fine. Adriana woke up every morning with a positive vibe, and came home everyday with the biggest smile on her face. We have been managing well with this temporary home schooling, but I must say the difference I see in Adriana as a school girl vs home schooled girl is totally different. Her place is in school with other children and after school hobbies. She is the happiest then.

We flew back to Rostov yesterday, and it surprisingly felt really good to be back. We've only lived here for six weeks, but it already feels like ''home''. We have all of our personal things here, and the kids have so much room to play and run around in the house. It is the weirdest feeling to feel so connected with three different cities at once. Helsinki, Moscow and Rostov. We have a few weeks now to relax in Rostov until our next trip back to Moscow. In general we will be doing some traveling within the  next few months, but as a mother and wife who is used to this I am excited for our upcoming journeys!

 Xoxo