When you moved overseas did you have a plan for how long you would stay? Did you imagine you'd be there for a long time, or are you considering staying longer than you originally planned? In this episode we had a conversation with Kim, our friend in Ukraine, about living overseas for the long haul. We talked about our initial plans when we moved overseas, persevering through times of doubt and hardship, and what we do, proactively, to remain and thrive in our life overseas. 

Whether you plan to stay overseas for 2 years or 20 years, we hope this episode will be a blessing to you, and also a practical help. You are not alone! So grab your tea and your earbuds and let your heart be encouraged in this episode of "It's Tea Time Somewhere."

Connect with us!
 Denise
 Melissa
Kim
Alicia

Mentioned in this episode:

This Global Pandemic with Kim in Ukraine

The Traveling Academy: An Instagram community all about loving our TCK's well.

Related articles and podcasts:

This Global Pandemic with Kim in Ukraine

When Dreams and Reality Don't Add Up

Podcast Episode 27: Speaking Honestly About Living Overseas Long-Term with Rachel Pieh Jones

Going "All In" (Again and Again)

Noteworthy Quotes:

"As Christians, living out your faith overseas is going to look different than how it was in your home country."

"I realized I really needed to nurture my personal relationship with the Lord and make it of highest importance. That really was key for me staying long-term overseas."

"I've had to learn how to communicate [with my spouse] in ways that I maybe didn't need to know when I was living in my home country." 

"We decided to stop trying to be Ukrainian...God brought us to Ukraine to do this deinstitutionalization work to be agents of change. He brought us here because we have a different perspective."

"Just say 'yes' to the next thing God asks of you, and don't do more than that."

"One thing that is key to our family's longevity is knowing our non-negotiables... and begin okay with them."

"Don't be afraid to speak up for what you need." 

"If you have to make a hard decision that makes it more sustainable, then do it and don't feel bad about it."

Show credits: 

Hosted by Denise James, Alicia Boyce, and Melissa Faraday // produced and edited by Melissa Faraday // content managed by Kim Johnson.

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