How Do You Say B-I-B-L-E

7 months ago Sarah did not know one iota of English. As she began speaking in English, her words still had a very Chinese flavor to them. Mandarain does not end with closed sounds, but everything seems to be open at the end of a phrase. Now this is just an observation, don't take it for fact, but I haven't heard anything end at the back of the throat or with a persons lips closed in Mandarin. So she would say I like-a mama, or I want-a a cookie. Sometimes she still does this and it really can crack me up!

Anyway, Sarah has been here awhile now and has emersed in English. I have been ecstatic to hear her utter words like kitty, mommy, bed, and at this point my list could go on forever -because she knows so much.

However, I was stopped short yesterday when she asked me if she could take her bIIIIIble to Walmart with us.

I did not spell bible incorrectly in the sentence above. I hope that you can hear her say bIIIIble with the long i - stretched to an infinitesimal length. It is just the way a Native East Texan would have said it.

So quickly she has gone from being completely Chinese to being a Texas Cutie Pie.

Dear Teacher

Dear Teacher,

I know when you call me to tell me about my child's behavior that it needs to be done. I know my child can do wrong and I know that my child can infuriate Mother Teresa if in the right mood.

But please, Mrs. Teacher, remember that I am the mom and I love this child dearly. Please remember this is very personal to me and my heart breaks when you tell me what my child has done and what you have done to my child - even if it was an inadvertant wrong.

Mrs. Teacher, when you tell me you have tried everything, please don't be offended when I question you about everything. Please don't assume that I am angry with you or blame you. Please remember that I desire what you do - A happy, well behaved child. But do respect that even with your experience as a teacher, I know this child better. This child is mine.

Sincerely,

The Parent

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