school's out

the plates, cup and chairs left where they were last played with. Little feet scamper away across the play yard. The cottage a place of games and giggles will be quiet and still for the summer.

Today was the end of school ceremony at Em's nursery school. All the friends gathered cross-legged on the floor for a blessing from Father Alfred and Revd Emily. Then one by one pulled the rope to ring the school bell as they stepped outside. Afterwards each returning child was presented with a sunflower to represent the growing still to do. Those moving onto places new, like Em, were read an Ode written about them. The whole occasion was so thoughtfully put together. Tears were shed as goodbyes and farewells were said.