Follow-Up on 'Language Study'

In early October, I shared a sappy post about our current state in language learning. It ended with lamentations about not having enough time in our schedules to fit language study in. Since then, we have made some serious schedule changes in order to get back to where we need to be.
Mike started studying Ukrainian again in August- 4-5 days a week. When the English school began having classes again with the new school year, Mike cut down his Ukrainian lessons to 2 nights a week. He teaches 1 English class in the evening and 2 in the mornings during the week- this schedule has helped him have time for Ukrainian lessons and separate study/homework time during weekday evenings. He has a great teacher to work with and I have noticed a big improvement in his understanding and ability to speak Ukrainian (granted he did very well prior to this new teacher, but now he is even better!). I frequently use him as my translator ;)
After I saw Mike's improvement, I decided that I NEEDED to make a change- "being too busy" was no longer a valid excuse. It was a difficult decision, but I decided to cut some things out of my schedule for the next several months so I could focus on my Russian lessons. So, I have decided to stop going to the Children's Hospital in Uzhhorod- this leaves me with 2 days a week free (when Mike can hang out with Solomiya) for language study. There is a great team of people committed to going to the hospital every day of the week, so it was easier for me to decide to cut this out of my schedule. I will still join the team on the weekly visits to the Children's Hospital in Chop and I currently have 2 OT patients that I will continue to see.
I feel so strongly that my language ability is directly related to my success at making an impact on people's lives here- both through therapy and relationships. I do have a very dear friend here who has been traveling with me to see my patients and translate- but I know that if I spoke better, it would open up many new opportunities for me.
On Monday, I met with a new Russian teacher, Alyona! Another of my very dear friends here recommended this teacher and set up the meeting. I am looking forward to beginning at the end of this week and making some changes in my life!

In other news, we are heading to Hungary next week to track down a transfer tub bench and score some inexpensive meds for one of my ladies. And, I heard a rumor that there is a McDonald's in the city we are headed to. I really hope it's true... Granted, I love cooking and eating all of this natural, organic food that is high in vitamins- but sometimes you just need a Big Mac.