Since moving, the Syrian family has ventured to Birmingham’s Soho road to buy halal meat and enjoyed day trips to places like Tamworth Castle and Stratford-upon-Avon.
Bushra says watching her daughter’s face light up on Christmas jumper day at school got her excited for the festivities, even though the family did not formally celebrate the occasion.
“I love the Cathedral during Christmas time,” she said. “The tree, parties with friends, I like it all and seeing my daughter enjoy too.”
Today, Khaled takes pride in tending his garden – a sea of greenery – while Bushra keeps the traditions of their homeland alive through food and fragrant Syrian coffee.
Their daughter has flourished in school and grown in confidence, while both Bushra and Khaled hope to soon find work.
“She’s a daughter of a teacher [so] when I speak in Arabic, Rinaad will tell me, ‘no mummy speak English’,” Bushra joked.
Though Lichfield may draw few comparisons to their beloved Syria, the family have found a sense of home in the city and its people.
“I thank everyone that helped me and my family, George and Margaret are my brother and sister,” Bushra said.
“I thank God that I met them,” Khaled said. “They are wonderful people; I see my family in them.”