First day of school in Mexico City (2008/2009)

It was an early morning here as we got the kids ready for their first day of school.  Uniforms on, backpacks ready, lunches packed, breakfasts eaten.  I went out to the van – chilly morning, I could see my breath – and everyone got in and away we went.

Nathanael emerges out of his school after the first day

We successfully found Hannah’s school.  Her classes start earlier than Nathanael’s, so we all went there for the welcome ceremonies, including a presentation of the flag, speeches and introductions of the teachers.  Nathanael couldn’t stand still that long, so he and I missed the last bit.  He did like the bathrooms there, though, which have a huge painted Superman for the boys and a Wonder Woman for the girls.

With Hannah safely at school, we headed over to Nathanael’s school.  We got there just in time, and in he was whisked.  Did I even say goodbye?  It was all so sudden!  These days are certainly more stressful for the parents than the kids, right?

After some time we picked up Nathanael.  He was very happy and had lots to tell us – especially that he had eaten all his lunch (although he also told us he had "shared" some of it).  He seems to really like his school, and is convinced it’s better than Hannah’s (where all they seem to do is give boring speeches).

Shari went to pick up Hannah.  The traffic was horrendous, so I think we may be looking for alternate routes!  However, Hannah had a great day too.  I missed the initial excitement, of course, since I didn’t pick her up.

We thought we were doing well getting everything ready for school until today.  Hannah got a note home in her bag, telling us that they had forgotten some things that she needed to bring to school.  Would we please buy them and have her bring them on Tuesday?

We also got Nathanael’s list of school supplies (they didn’t have a copy when we registered).  60-some-odd different items to buy.  Not just one of each, either – several.  Having been through this once, we know what most of them are.  But there are a few… ! – – and where do we buy these? ! and …. we need them by when??

Well, we’re swamped as usual.  But overall, the day went pretty well, everyone likes school, and no one lost a limb.  So far so good.

And now that are the parents are rushing around trying to buy last minute school supplies, it’s time to get ready for Christmas!  Here’s a photo I took of Nathanael today at WalMart…

Nathanael with an electronic Santa
at WalMart today