finished up at school

We finished up at the school on Friday. I had two more author talks to do, which went well. They were for Grades 7 and 8, and in those classes there are some talented writers who were very interested. My bet is that one or two of them will become authors.

My husband and I were farewelled at the staff morning tea, and though I really tried not to, I cried! We have had such a wonderful time here, and the school community were especially welcoming. To say goodbye to people we have known before, but gotten to know better, and to those who are new friends, was difficult. Most we will probably never see again (this side of heaven!) and some it may be several years before we do.

The school day ended at lunchtime (unusually) as the afternoon was devoted to parent-teacher interviews. We met with each of the girls’ teachers, and found that both our girls have done exceptionally well with their schooling here. This was lovely to hear, as our aim was that they would simply be happy in Ethiopia, whether they made progress at school or not. The experience of life here was going to be just as much a learning experience as school.

Our eldest found it difficult to say goodbye to friends, as she has made some strong friendships in the time we have been here. Addresses were exchanged. Our younger daughter surprised us by asking for a photo with one of her classmates in particular – it seems she finally did settle enough to make a friend!

Both were given cards from their classes, with messages and drawings. Our younger daughter treasures hers so much that she wanted to hold it in bed that night, and even when we put it on the table beside her bed, a little hand kept reaching out to adjust it.

She has come away with a new skill from our time here. Before she came, she could not hoola hoop. In the Kindergarten playground they always had hoola hoops and other play equipment for the kids. Our youngest learnt to hoola hoop so well that she can now do three hoops at once, while walking, stepping up onto low walls, and taking small jumps. She already does gymnastics, but we’re wondering if rhythmic gymnastics might be especially her thing!

In the afternoon we went spent an hour with some of our new friends at their apartment, just relaxing a bit – we’ll really miss them. They arrived at the same time as we did, but they’ll be staying for several years. We went for coffee locally with one of the other Australian teachers. Then we waited for our taxi.

It was very strange to drive out of the school grounds for the last time. I wonder if we will ever see it again?