Teens Connect The World: Brain, Children and Love

Happy New Year! I hope 2026 has started off well for you, even if life is already busy. (I’m finally almost done with my college applications, so it’s been busy over here too.)

I wanted to start the year with a quick family update, because it’s been bringing a lot of joy to our home. My two boy cousins, who are originally from North Korea, have been adjusting really well to life in the United States. Watching them settle in has been one of the most meaningful parts of my year. It’s not just about learning a new place. It’s about finally feeling safe, understood, and like you belong.

Little by little, I’ve seen them get more comfortable with everyday routines. They’re getting used to school schedules, trying new foods, and building confidence in small ways that add up. Some days they’re quiet and thoughtful, just taking everything in. Other days they’re loud, playful, and full of energy, turning the living room into a race track and recruiting everyone into whatever game they invented five minutes ago. They’re also very expressive now, which means they have strong opinions about snacks, bedtime, and who gets to be in charge.

And because they’ve always loved Lego, we finally made it to Legoland. I’m sharing a photo from that trip because it was such a happy day for our family. They were completely amazed by the displays, the colors, and the tiny worlds built from blocks. They kept pointing things out like they had discovered treasure, and honestly, their excitement made the whole place feel brand new to me too.

I also want to say thank you. I really appreciate all your support, kind words, and messages over the last two years. It has meant more than I can explain, and it has helped our family feel less alone while we navigate all these new beginnings.

Going into this year, I’m feeling grateful. Grateful for their progress, grateful for the laughter in our home, and grateful for the small moments that remind you things really can get better.

Thank you for being here and reading along. Wishing you a peaceful start to 2026, and a year with more reasons to smile than you expect.

Happy New Year!