MANCHESTER MEMORIAL | TUESDAY, 9:30 a.m. Circle Time
I had been there for 30 minutes and taken over 40 images when I only needed two—yet I found myself lingering. I really did not want to leave. Ever. The feeling in the sun filled room with a handful of Pre-Kers and three teachers was utterly delightful. Small people busily going about the business of the day, drawing trees, playing store, urgently preparing for a picnic with a basket full of wooden food, tending to fussy dolls who required multiple outfit changes and reading books, lots of books.
Sebastian settled into a tiny blue chair to look at The Polar Express which he told me he had at home, four times. I told him I did too, but only once.
Sebastian also drew a picture for me using an orange crayon and a circle stencil that is currently taped to my wall here at the Cricket.
Many of the kids took pictures with my big and heavy camera. The feeling of joy and growth is palpable. Each of the teachers in turn chatted with me and disclosed what was glaringly obvious, this is the best job ever, in the best place ever. How lucky to be able to briefly be a part of this wonderful world. All of this is to say that within the gorgeous new memorial building (I had not yet seen it and it is breathtaking) is a very special place for little ones.
