Today, to me, is almost as big as the day Pierre and Ange-Laurette arrived to South Dakota. The chance to receive an education was such a big part of why their birthparents chose adoption in the first place. I so wish there was a way to tell those mothers where their children are today! Pierre and Ange-Laurette seem to understand the importance of today. They were giddy all morning and wanted to dress up so nice. In the past two days, they have been working so hard on their reading skills. Just last night, Ange-Laurette read every word of Green Eggs and Ham. I about cried! Pierre is practicing on that story each day too. They both packed our two copies of that book in their backpacks, hoping to get to share them with the ESL teacher.
Tigi is the wonderful lady from here in Watertown who has been helping us as an interpreter for the kids. She was born in Haiti and speaks Creyole. She joined the kids today as they walked into their new school, and she will be shadowing them throughout the first 3 days. That way, we can be more certain that the kids understand directions/expectations/routines from the get-go. Tigi will also be able to reassure Pierre and Ange-Laurette and interpret any questions/concerns they have. What a blessing. As their mom, it was harder than leaving a kindergartener their first day! I am confident, though, that both kids will do well. Their teacher and classmates are so very excited and supportive. The entire elementary school has been so interested and encouraging. These are two very lucky kids! We cannot wait to watch them blossom.
