Sisters Yulia Kokaliuk and Lesia Bilous took the children with them to escape the bombs in Kyiv.
They didn't know how long they would stay, only that they needed to get to a safe place.
SVT Småland met the family just days after they settled in the Ekenstams' home in Alvesta.
- We didn't know what awaited, how long it would last or how they felt.
We have learned a lot from each other and it has felt great to be able to help, says Mats Ekenstam.
After twelve weeks, Yulia and Lesia got their own apartment in Växjö.
Tie party and practice run
During the year, the families have become good friends and celebrated various holidays with each other.
On Christmas Eve, everyone gathered for a tying party and pack game.
- It was quite similar to how we celebrate, just different food.
And we celebrate Christmas Eve on another day in January, says eldest son Ivan Bilous.
The youngest children go to school and learn Swedish, Ivan is studying at university and the mothers have found jobs.
The only thing missing now is a date for when the war ends, and a driver's license for Ivan.
- We are going out for a practice run later, says Mats Ekenstam.