Tima's First Day of School

All ready, with required flowers!

The boy next to Tima was in his preschool class. He knows two other boys in his new class.

Speeches were thankfully shorter this year. But Tima was sad that a few traditions were missing. The 1st years didn't get the banners to wear announcing their 'first year' status. And no button with their class. And, the 11th graders didn't  'escort' the 1st years to their classroom as happened for Danya. Tima did well listening, watching, and said that it wasn't too boring.

But when balloons were released, and one group was entangled in a tree, Tima kept looking backward to see them.

Finally, in the classroom. His teacher didn't have the parents come in to watch anything--just quick photos, then she corralled everyone out and closed the door! But Tima reported that after drawing a picture, writing their names, then they played a 'Name Game' with a beach ball. That seemed fairly hopeful to us, that his teacher is investing in the kids feeling comfortable and knowing each other.  He actually finished the day and said, "That was fun!"

So far, we are so grateful for many answered prayers. Tima, though scared, was excited to go. His teacher seems okay, and he has a few known classmates.

Now, on to day 2, and so on, and so on. From our previous experience, the excitement of day 1 wears off, and then the real prayers are needed!