First Grade
 

It was early that autumn morning, the first day of school, and this year's first graders were standing outside of their houses. This was a simple area, hilly, grassy, surrounded by forests; the houses were small, built of brick or wood, and almost every lawn was surrounded by a hedge of flowered shrubs. The children who stood outside almost formed a line as straight and symmetrical as the row of houses and hedges. Some stood alone, some were with their siblings, and some had already joined their walking companions, but they were all listening as their parents laid down the law about safety, proper in-school behavior and punctuality or fussed with their jackets, for, before long, they'd be headed off to school on foot.
"Now remember the way to school, Sarah. We've passed it before. It's up the street from the corner store we always go to."
Little Sarah shuffled impatiently. She was waiting for her best friend to join her so that she could head off. "I know, Mama."
"Stop that, Sarah. It's not necessary. And remember your manners when you're in school."
"Yes, Mama." Sarah cast a glance over her shoulder, hoping to see her friend.

"Sarah, over here!" - a loud cry came from the distance. Seven year old Elah waved her hands furiously, afraid that her best friend might not notice her. A flowery dress, lush curly black hair and a wide smile - all of that attracted attention but little Elah didn't mind. She liked being in the centre of attention
"Stop it, Elah! She heard you" - whispered eight year old Nico, throwing a quick glance at their dad to see if he was upset. But no, the tall man was walking with his hands in pockets, thinking as usual and he didn't seem to notice what was going on. Meanwhile, Elah shrugged at her brother impatiently and quickly ran over to Sarah so that she could hug her best friend.

"ELAH!" Sarah seized both of Elah's hands, and they spun in the mid of the lawn, causing a few autumn leaves to float up.
"Sarah, stop that!" Mother scolded. "You'll get leaves tangled in both your stockings! What would Elah'smother say?"
Sarah stopped spinning and stood there,pink-cheeked and giggling. Mother shook her head, then, leaning in, planted a kiss on Elah's brow.
"You look very pretty, little one. Are you excited for today?"
Sarah's mother seldom saw Elah without remarking on her prettiness. Sarah sometimes felt as if she were Anne of Green Gables, with her freckles and pigtails, while Elah was the gorgeous Diana. Even so, they were best friends.