Any parent can relate...to hear a teacher express her love for your child...and to have her see the very strengths you see...it tickles us pink! Pierre's teacher shared that she has never seen a child work so hard, so willingly, and so gratefully. He brightens each persons' day who works with him, with his bright smile and genuine kindness and interest in others. We give all credit to his birthparents because Pierre arrived in South Dakota that way! He is volunteering to read, even in science...even when his skills are two grade levels below in reading. He asks for grade level work to bring home to try. He is willing to stay in from other activities to do his neatest work. Still, when he arrives home at the end of the day, he is energetic and happy. Where does that kind of spirit come from?! We are so thankful and so proud of him.
Ange-Laurette's teacher pointed out that he just does not see any difference between her and other students as he goes throughout his day. She follows directions, raises her hand to volunteer answers, completes assignments as asked, and joins in group activities with excitement. Although she does struggle with some comprehension and vocabulary still, the teachers don't notice until she asks for help...which we are working on. She just so much wants to fit in and be like everyone else. And she is doing a good job! Her confidence is growing, and we almost have her convinced of her beauty. :) Endless compliments on that hair have helped. Soon, we will have to post the amazing and touching story of my brother-in-law's trip to Port-au-Prince. It was the missing piece to Ange-Laurette's past!
For now, we just wanted to make sure we didn't hit the 2-month mark for "no posts." Life has been busy, but (even more so) "fulfilling and intentional" lately. We are again finding how to reprioritize each hour and live more carefully and purposefully as a family and as individuals. A huge feat in this fast-paced, media world!
