I agree! My family went through a lot after adopting four children from Ukraine. My parents became stricter, and our environment became one that wasn't good at all. It caused a lot of scars, but I still enjoy looking back at the good memories mixed in too.
It was so interesting to read more about your childhood and your upbringing. I can't imagine how much work and stress that was on your mom, but I am glad that things eventually got a little more stable. Thanks for sharing!