Nolan's school year is rapidly coming to a close. His Pre-K teacher celebrates the kids' summer birthdays throughout the month of June - Nolan was ecstatic to bring home his little birthday bag and wear his 5 year old birthday hat.
Since he is going to full-day kindergarten next year, he will start receiving services from the school district's teacher of the deaf (TOD) and speech-language pathologist (SLP). This means that we must say goodbye to his current TOD and SLP, who are through the county.
Except, of course, we are not really saying goodbye. We joke that his SLP is his "other mother," as she has been with our family since Nolan was 8 months old. She held him as a baby, cheered on his first steps, and gave him a voice. She helped transition his entry into preschool, and is passing the baton as he enters kindergarten. She is more family than therapist, and there is no way we could truly say, "goodbye." She might not be providing therapy services anymore, but she will always be a part of our lives.
What in the world can you give to someone who has given both of your children a voice? There is really nothing that can compare to that gift. I did find a neat little locket on Etsy (from Punky Jane's jewelry) that fit the bill.
It is hand-stamped and the inside says, "Thank you for my voice, Love Nolan."
We had our last home visit yesterday. We refused to say goodbye, since it really isn't a goodbye. It is more of a transition to an exciting Something New.
But still, the tears are flowing.
3 comments:
Thanks for the tears this morning. Anyone that has had the privilege of meeting Cindy, knows the heart and love of a teacher. God Bless her as she changes more lives in the future. Who knows? I have a feeling she will always have a part in Nolan's life, as well as the rest of the Lefler's.
Mom
That is so precious!! What a perfect gift.
Leah, that is a precious tribute to a wonderful woman! How thankful we are for folks that help our kids so wonderfully!
Julie
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