First week in America, Wednesday 9/08, Anita and I got dressed for school. I knew she wouldn't be staying but I needed to speak with them regarding enrollment and what we needed to do. She willingly went with me. As we drove to the school, she sat quietly and as I parked the car she quietly asked "Mommy, you leaving me?" "No, baby girl, Mommy is not leaving you here." The office had "heard" of us and were helpful. We were given the numerous forms to fill out and given a card for immunizations. Oh my - Kinder was already starting and Mommy had LOTS of work to do. As the Principal talked to her, she slowly began to shut down. She wouldn't even look at him. Fear was settling in, quickly. I knew it was time to go. As we drove away, she didn't stop talking and only got more and more hyper when we were home. What just happened? She shut down and once comfortable was a talking, singing, dancing, silly girl. I was learning her emotions by her actions. It was all fascinating and yet important to know how our little girl was communicating. We needed to be sensitive, we needed to love, we needed to be patient and yet, we needed to instill security, boundaries, and proper ways to treat people around us. All in due time. After naps and lunch ... Adam, Maxwell, Anita and I drove back to the school to drop off her paperwork. School had been released early. As we approached the office door, two Kinder teachers stood outside and turned to say hello. They both introduced themselves to A & M ... and from this point forward, this was their school! 
They were at peace with these two teachers. The principal walked by and new why we were there. He stepped away as the teachers interacted with A & M. When he came back, he told us she would be in Mrs. Kinney's class. And Mrs. Kinney was standing right there. She was so thrilled. She asked if Anita wanted to see her classroom ... this wasn't even a debate as we walked to her room. This small interaction meant so so much for the days to come ... how the blessings just continue! Anita was fascinated by the classroom. Running from spot to spot. Asking questions, staring in amazement. Her teacher was gentle, kind, and willing to understand her. Our hearts were happy (if that's even an emotion.)As we completed physicals, immunizations, and more paperwork, we chose to finish out the week with no school and start fresh on Monday. Mommy and Anita would attend
school together until all adjustments became easier. Monday, 09/13, 7:45 am came quickly. She was nervous. Excited but nervous. I was simply ecstatic for her. Luckily she missed one week and wasn't too far behind.
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