I feel like we have been here weeks. So many things happen to us, so many people we got to know. All things and everyone are impressive, kind and friendly.
We were with Judy in an ‘early morning meeting’ in the kitchen. We asked her how and when she started to work with Reggio program. What was difficult her and what does she think now about it? She told us some examples of how she started to work with the children in a project. During the conversation, Mara arrived and she also joined in. The discussion continued in the car and we went to the JCC Early Childhood Center, where there was an open day for the interested families. In this preschool, we met a lot of open, smiling, child-centered, relaxed teachers and the leads of the center. One of them, Sandy, was my favorite. She was an energy resource. Her job is similar to mine, she told a lot about the teacher’s meetings and how she helps the teachers and families. If I can come back once more I would like to follow her like a shadow.
Impressions:
Openness, smiling faces, self-conscious, relaxing and balanced children and teachers. Talkative walls, large spaces, natural materials and pastel colors. It was also interesting to see the prospective parents and listen to their questions.
After the visit, during the lunch we and our Bulgarian colleagues Vanessa and Beti continued with Mara our conversation about the Reggio program. Mara shared more and more experiences with us.
We had a great lunch at Panera with Glynis and Alan. After that Alan took us to the Sunflower Cafe where we had 
some delicious cake and coffee. This place is very interesting because they are employing and helping mentally disabled people. During coffee, we had an interesting discussion about the way Reggio came into Mara’s and others’ lives. After some strolling in the mall, we joined Melissa and her guests for a lovely dinner and conversation with people from Temple Emmanuel, where we will most probably be amazed tomorrow.
Before we went to sleep, we said goodbye to Judy, because she is going to NY in the morning. Tomorrow we move to Renee’s house.
