It was such a short time ago that we were choosing the right school for Halina for her kindergarten year, then stressing about it, then beginning it, then adjusting, then figuring out it was awesome, and during all that it seemed like *so much* time was ahead of us for stretching our legs within this new reality. And now suddenly it's the end of Kindegarten for my girl.

Today I went to her classroom for their publishing party. My small group of four kids each read one of the books he or she wrote as part of a series. Halina read from her "The adventures of the boy and the girl" series, which has six books, all kept as a secret surprise for today. In the book she read, the girl and boy go camping. In another book, they go skiing -- something she's never done. The skis are pudgy, like bread loaves, and have wheels on the bottom.

Now that the year is ending, it's easier than ever to see the adorable-ness and courage involved in what these kids have accomplished. It really shines through and is almost too brilliant to take in. 

After the small group readings, we gathered in a big circle to offer appreciation for the writing or illustrations or for whatever came to mind from the publishing party. A turn-taking stone was handed around. Some kids offered appreciation, many kids passed. It got to Halina last. I figured she'd pass. She's not one for public speaking. It can be so difficult for her. But she didn't pass. In a soft voice, she appreciated...me! Wow. Such a sweet moment. I was so touched and tried to be as present as I could for it.