My first strong memory is the day we arrived at the Orphanage.
As we arrived at the Orphanage as we are gathering our stuff together. Of course since I'm barely two years old I'm trying to figure out where we are why did we stop here.
My father out of grief and fear tried to explain to me what was going on and why we were here.
Because of my age. My sister was complaining that I was to young and wouldn't understand anyway.
But she was wrong very wrong. I knew Dad didn't have a choice. That much was clear.
Introduction the Nun and The way my life was going to be.
First off I was given a basic tour and showed where I would be living and sleep. As we started I was shown the basic living are it was a large open area with a lot of cubbies and other things lined along the walls other than mats on the floor basically empty. I was told everyone else was currently outside. Then shown the off limits areas like the kitchen and her living area. Last because I was new I was told I had to take a bath before meeting everyone else. Innocent at the time I thought. ( But later figured out it was a delousing bath) While in the bath I committed on the nice set of Toys. Asked if I could use them in the bath. ( Their intended purpose) I then was giving permission one time only as it was explained to me that they were decoration. For show for visitors so they looked presentable. The she went on further to explain that technically I was a orphan so therefore a second class citizen and how things were no different in life.
I was introduced to the other boys after. Wasn't much after that we were organized and sent to bed.
I didn't have a good night. I was lost and a little confused. So I started crying for my sister who usually took care of me after mom got sick. The in their "infinite wisdom" wouldn't let me see her. But instead sent the youngest and closest one in age to explain that we were no longer allowed to sleep together as a family.
Back in those days children shared beds until older. So I was basically given a lecture they had given her on how life was different and we no longer had a choice or say in the situation. So dejected and not having a choice I returned to my assigned bed.
The next morning was a introduction to a extremely organized life style
As I woke in the morning disoriented and confused. Then came the dawning revelation that this was my new life.as the morning routine was drilled into me as I followed the instructions to make my bed. Then into the communal bathroom where I was shown which was mine and instructed as to how to use and be sure to be kept in the exact order as every other set that was present that the other boys used.
Once all that was done we went to the dinning area and had breakfast.
I couldn't tell you what I had but you can figure that because it was in general just a Orphanage that the food was rather cheap and regularly repeated that I don't remember. But there's certain foods I'm not fond of just because of having the same food consistently through several years.
Once we were finished our next routine of the day was a couple of hours of schooling. This was a great benefit to me for I had a curious mind that was in turmoil and needed a challenge. Where my love of reading to escape started. One of the few things I'm thankful from the Orphanage.
Next we were running out to play. I figure out later that this was mainly to prep lunch for us. During rain or the winter we were allowed to play with the toys along the toy wall.
Then it was a short study time before storytime and a nap. This became a area of contesion when I asked why did we have to take a nap. Of course I was given many reasons. But it finally came down to I had to follow the rest even if I wasn't tired. Deal with and be quiet for the others.
It was kinda explained that meant at night as well no leaving your mat during naps or your bed are night the only exception was the bathroom at night and only a short trip.
After our nap a few more hours of classes but usually more artistic type. Then again some playtime while dinner is prepared.