Venting...

I pride myself in being an overall optimistic person.  But can I just say that living out of suitcases with three kids under that age of 7 for 5 weeks (and counting) is just a tad bit stressful.  Add to that some crazy Swiss rules, and life is downright challenging at the moment.  For example:  you cannot make noise in this country.  I'm not kidding.  (Considering that we live on the top floor, this might just put a damper on our spontaneous Courts family after dinner dance parties in the living room.)  We have been informed that the Swiss will fine you and have even been known to kick families out of apartments for any or all of the following:  talking and or walking too loud (um, I have three little boys), flushing your toilets after 10 pm (uh, did I mention I live with 4 boys?), vacuuming or doing the laundry on Sunday, improperly disposing of your garbage and/or recycling.  Wow.  These are the differences that don't seem big when you hear about them, but make daily life frustrating during the adjustment period.  I mean, I'm driving myself crazy with all of the sushing of the boys...I swear, Levi's first word will be "SSSSHHHHHH"!  
Speaking of the boys...they have been beyond amazing.  They are transitioning beautifully-much better than me.  They have been creative beyond belief as they wait patiently for their toys.  They have even made ships out of the rental hanger racks we have in their hunt for anything...anything that can be used with their imagination.  (no closets in the apartment, by the way, not-a-one).  They are being flexible, and helpful, and sweet.  I am so proud of their little hearts and their adventurous spirits--and their best attempts at walking, talking, and playing quietly--after they get shushed.