Next, consistently, every morning, are Leonardo and Estefany. Always smiling. Leonardo usually asks if Wesley has arrived yet. I stop to admire Estefany’s hair bling. She likes butterflies and sequins.
Next, Jude and Charlotte bound out of their car, skipping and hopping. Charlotte always smiling. Jude – you never know - but you know immediately. What will we have to talk about when the ice and mud that fascinates them is finally gone?
Next is Manuel, who rides in the front seat and has to roll the window down to open the car door from the outside. Scarf cinched up high around his neck, eyes intently staring at the ground. I always need to ask him to lift his head up.
Max is next, usually wearing a crazy knit hat with eyeballs for pom poms. I’ve tried to ask him what character it is it supposed to me, but he answers so quietly, in passing, that his words go by like a breeze.
Lexi and Josie come next, usually munching on a homemade scone or some other goodie. I know when it is their night to spend the night with their father by the extra hugs they give their Mom.
In comes Veronica. I’ve asked her to wait until she has passed to put her mask on just so I can see her lights-up-the world, albeit toothless smile, and she rewards me every day.
Ruth, Nathan, Micah, and Judah march in step, in order of height like the Von Trap children. Always quiet, but cooperative as they lift their long bangs for me.
Things start to pick up and there is less time to chat – to hear what they have planned for the day or what they did over the weekend. Some cover their mouths with their jackets or hands and I tell them to grab a mask at the door. Even though it means an early start for me, the daily temperature check is a warm start to each day.